RAW BEEF SAFE HANDLING TIPS:
Reference for Beef Handling
We know the benefits of preparing raw foods at home. It can be very gratifying to prepare a delicious meal in your home for your loved ones, I know - I get great enjoyment out of it too!
Over the years I've learned some tips that help in my kitchen - try them in yours too!
EASY RAW MEAT TIPS:
Wash hands with soap and water before cooking and always after touching raw meat.
Select high quality cuts in good quality packaging.
Separate raw meat from other foods. Keep the raw meat juices away from other foods, both in the refrigerator and during preparation.
Wash all cutting boards, utensils, and dishes after touching raw meat.
Do not reuse marinades used on raw foods.
Pat steaks dry with paper towels for nice browning.
The "nose knows". Discard any cuts of meat with an off-odor.
TEMPERATURE CHECK:
Defrost beef in the refrigerator, not the counter or sink!
- Our 1.5" thick cut steaks may take up to 24 hours to thaw in a refrigerator
- Our 2"-3" thick roasts may take 3-5 hours per pound.
Prepare steaks and roasts until temperature reaches 145°F for medium rare, as measured by a meat thermometer, allowing to rest for three minutes.
Even with frozen beef products, handle it similar to raw beef and wash your hands and preparation equipment for doing another task.
Refrigerate leftovers promptly.
Keep foods out of the danger zone - I found this great graphic on Beeftips.com:
GROUND BEEF HANDLING:
Use a light hand when mixing ground beef. Over mixing will give an undesirable firm, compact texture.
Prepare Ground Beef to 160°F as measured by a meat thermometer.
Ground beef is more perishable than other beef cuts because so much of it has been exposed to air during grinding before packaging. Use within 3-4 months.
This list has been compiled with the help of the National Beef Checkoff. And there are even more on their websites!
MORE RESOURCES:
For more information on degree of doneness and other cooking tips visit: https://www.beefitswhatsfordinner.com/cooking/determining-doneness
For more information on safe food handling and beef safety, see: https://www.beefitswhatsfordinner.com/cooking/food-safety