Mastering the art of freezing and thawing minced meat
To freeze or not to freeze? When it comes to minced meat, we often have doubts. This storage method can be effective, but it's important to know how to do it correctly. Moreover, the process of proper thawing and preparation of the meat is crucial.
It's always worthwhile having minced meat on hand because it's an ingredient in many dishes. It's used in burgers, meatballs, sauces, fillings, and casseroles. You can freeze it without worry, but you must follow some important guidelines. You also need to know how to store it properly.
How to freeze minced meat?
The most important rule is to do it quickly, preferably on the same day it was purchased. It's not recommended to freeze meat or other products that have been sitting in the fridge for an extended period. It's also essential that the meat is well-packed to prevent air access and minimise the risk of quality loss. Use airtight food wrap, freezer bags, or freezer containers for freezing. It's also a good idea to divide the minced meat into smaller portions before freezing.
Always with a label
If you decide to use freezer bags, remove the excess air from them. You can use special devices for this or squeeze the air out manually. Each package should have a label with the freezing date, which makes it easier to monitor the storage time. It should not exceed three to four months, as this is when the meat retains the most flavour.
How to thaw minced meat?
When you want to thaw minced meat, it's best to place it on the lower shelf in the refrigerator or in a drawer designated for this purpose. Planning thawing in advance is crucial, as this process can be quite lengthy. The fridge helps maintain the optimal temperature and reduces the risk of bacterial growth.
If you need to thaw it quickly, you can put the meat in cold water. Beforehand, ensure the packaging is tightly sealed. It's also important to regularly change the water every half hour to maintain its low temperature. After thawing, the meat should be used immediately and not refrozen.
Can you use minced meat without thawing it?
Minced meat is ready to use right after thawing. If you're short on time, you can also use frozen meat, but remember to start the preparation process at lower temperatures. It will also take longer, so a bit of patience is needed. The simplest method is to bake frozen meat. Sautéing is more challenging because during the process, the meat will release water, which disrupts the cooking process.
