Meat Thermometers & You
Jul 5 |
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When cooking any meat care must be taken to ensure that the proper temperature is reached. In doing so, any pathogens that can potentially cause illness are killed and deliciousness is achieved. In the case of pork the desired temperature is between 145 degrees Fahrenheit (or 63 degrees Celsius) for rare and 165 degrees Fahrenheit (or 74 degrees Celsius) for well-done. To make sure our meal is in perfect range we need our old friend the trusty meat thermometer.
Meat thermometers come in a few varieties. The most common involves a metallic probe, which is pushed into the meat. This then uses a bimetallic strip (a strip of two types of metal that react to heat differently), which rotates a needle and shows the temperature on a dial. Some meat thermometers use a digital display while still others use a spring system to have a fun surprise pop up and advise you when the desired temperature is reached.
Most of these are designed to be safe when left in the oven (although be careful not to touch them while they’re hot), but there are some types desperate the needle from the display with a wire, so that the display lives outside the oven. There are even some wireless varieties!
When the time comes to take the temperature of the pork you’re cooking be sure to insert the thermometer away form bone, fat or cartilage. That should give you an accurate reading and help your meal reach perfection. So go forth and find which meat thermometer meats (get it?) your needs.
