Meat is an essential item in every household, especially for housewives. However, when frozen meat is stored in large quantities and mixed together, it can develop a distinct odor, even if it has been tested for food safety. So, what can housewives do to eliminate the smell of meat? Let’s explore some useful, simple, and quick tips to remove the odor from frozen meat!
1 Utilize dried onions and ginger
Dried onions and ginger are indispensable ingredients in every kitchen as they are frequently used. Ginger contains geraniol alcohols, gingerol, borneol, linalool, and other compounds that have hot and warm properties, making it perfect for eliminating odor and acting as an antibacterial agent, just like dried onions.
To eliminate the odor of frozen meat using dried onions and ginger, peel and crush the onions, and roast and crush a small amount of ginger. Rub this mixture on the meat before using it. This method will effectively overpower the odor of the frozen meat without compromising its quality.
2 Make use of white wine
Chefs in restaurants often use wine to process raw foods. Similarly, for frozen meat, you can use wine to eliminate odor. Wine contains ethyl acetate, which effectively controls odor.
When eliminating the odor of frozen beef, chefs usually use red or white wine, as both types of wine not only remove the odor but also tenderize the meat. Simply place the piece of beef that needs odor elimination into the wine, soak it for approximately 15 minutes, rinse it with water, and then use it.
3 Use lemon and vinegar
Lemon and vinegar both contain acid, which is commonly used to process raw foods like meat. When the acid in lemon and vinegar reacts with the compounds in beef, it helps reduce the gamey smell of the meat.
To eliminate the odor of frozen meat using this method, either use lemon juice or rub slices of lemon on the meat. Alternatively, you can soak the meat in vinegar for approximately 5 minutes, then wash it with water before using.
4 Important considerations when handling frozen meat
Thawing properly
Most housewives tend to thaw frozen foods by placing them in cold or warm water to dissolve the frozen layer. However, this method is incorrect and can affect the quality of the product.
When thawing frozen meat, simply remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature to gradually thaw. Avoid opening the packaging while thawing and wait for the frozen layer to melt before opening it for use.
If you don’t have time to wait and need to process the meat urgently, you can put the frozen meat in an oven or microwave, adjusting the time and temperature appropriately to avoid overcooking. Another method is to place the frozen food in the refrigerator’s cool compartment and allow it to thaw slowly. However, with this method, you must plan ahead and allow approximately 24 hours for complete thawing.
Proper storage temperature
When storing frozen food, it is crucial to ensure that the temperature of the freezer compartment is -18 degrees Celsius. This temperature is considered the standard for preserving frozen food, and it is important not to arbitrarily increase or decrease the temperature to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Shelf life
Frozen food stored at the standard temperature of -18 degrees Celsius can be preserved for an extended period, up to several years. However, the flavor may become unpleasant and the taste may deteriorate over time.
According to recommendations from the US Food Department, raw meat should be discarded after one year in the freezer, and raw minced meat after four months. Cooked meat stored in the freezer should be discarded after three months to ensure the health of the entire family.
Avoid using expired frozen food
Although expired frozen meat can still be used if stored correctly, it is recommended to discard it to ensure food safety and protect your family’s health. Avoid using expired frozen meat to prevent diseases caused by harmful bacteria entering the body.
So, we have provided you with useful, simple, and quick tips to eliminate the odor from frozen meat! Hopefully, this information will be valuable for your kitchen space.
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