Beef Ambassador

Well school is starting right around the corner, like Thursday! Also, I know most grade schools have already started back. With school starting it also means that families will be having more meals together and college students will be TRYING to cook and fend for themselves so I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to go over the proper way to handle and cook beef.

1. When your purchase beef take it home immediately and get in into the refrigerator or freezer. If you keep it in the refrigerator it must be used in 1-2 days. If frozen it can last up to 4 months.
2. The best way to thaw beef is in the refrigerator. If you’re in a hurry you can defrost beef in the microwave or by running hot water over it but you must cook it immediately after it’s thawed. Never leave beef at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
3. When preparing beef always be aware of cross-contamination.  Don’t use knives or cutting boards for other products such as vegetables after it’s been in contact with raw meat.
4. ***ALWAYS COOK GROUND BEEF TO 160 DEGREES AND WHOLESALE CUTS TO 145*** The actually temperature of the final product is best way to guarantee safety.
5. You can store cooked ground beef in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

As a college student and a new cook I’m struggling to learn the basics but I always remember safe beef handling tips and tell all my friends Safe and Savory 160!