When Do You Put a Thermometer in Meat?
Meat thermometers are handy tools to use in the kitchen. No matter what kind of meat you are preparing, a meat thermometer can determine when the meat is cooked to the proper temperature, without a lot of mess and fuss. To ensure the best results, there are key things to keep in mind. Does this Spark an idea?
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Basics
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Use a thermometer to prevent overcooking, to determine the safe temperature and to help keep foods hot for serving. Your thermometer may be an oven-proof thermometer, a digital or instant-read thermometer, a microwave-safe thermometer or a pop-up thermometer. Whatever you use, know how to read it correctly, to ensure that whatever meat you're cooking reaches the safe internal temperature (see Resources).
Where to Insert
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A meat thermometer should be inserted into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding all bones. Different thermometers will have their sensors at varying points on the probe. It is crucial that the sensor is inserted into the meat. People commonly stick the thermometer in vertically, but sometimes it's best to insert the probe horizontally, so that the sensor is immersed in the meat and there is no danger of the probe coming out the other side of the meat.
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When to Insert a Regular Meat Thermometer
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The appropriate time to insert the thermometer depends on the type of thermometer being used. If using an oven-proof thermometer, insert it in the meat before you start cooking, and allow it to stay there while the meat cooks. Remove the thermometer when the desired temperature is reached.
When to Insert a Digital/Instant Thermometer
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Instant-read or digital thermometers should not stay in the meat during cooking. Your recipe should give an approximate cook time for your meat. Insert your instant thermometer into the meat after the time recommended in your recipe. If you generally like your meat more rare, check the temperature a few minutes prior to the time stated in the recipe.
When to Insert for Reheating
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If you are reheating a dish in the microwave, wait until you remove the dish from the microwave before inserting the thermometer. If the food has not reached 165 degrees F, remove the thermometer, return the dish to the microwave and heat longer.
When to Insert for Holding Foods
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While you are serving foods, if you want to keep them at the appropriate temperature, insert the thermometer once the food is prepared. Leave the thermometer there and check it regularly to make sure the food remains at the right temperature. If it begins to drop, remove the thermometer and reheat the food. Return the thermometer to the food after reheating.
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