Beauty and The Butcher: How to Stay Gorgeous During Meat Preparation
As much as we love cooking, there’s no denying that it can be a messy business. One of the messiest and most challenging aspects of food preparation is dealing with meat. Not only is it messy, but it can be downright unappealing to look at. It’s tough to stay gorgeous when you’re elbow-deep in raw chicken or beef. But fear not! There are ways to stay beautiful and avoid any unwanted spillage during meat preparation.
Clothing is Key
The first thing to consider when preparing meat is your attire. You don’t want to wear anything too precious or difficult to clean. Opt for comfortable clothing that you can move around it. Loose-fitting clothes are a great option, as they provide a wide range of motion, and won’t restrict your movement. Think about wearing an apron or a smock as these pieces can protect your clothes from getting stained or damaged. Not only does protective clothing protect your outfit, but it’s also more hygienic which is important for handling meat.
Invest in High-Quality Tools
One of the keys to successful meat preparation is having the right set of tools. Investing in a good set of knives can make cutting and trimming meat much smoother and more effortless process. Sharp knives also make it easier to cut through meat without applying too much pressure and prevent unwanted slips. Other valuable tools include meat thermometers, which allow you to check the internal temperature of the meat, ensuring that it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
Preparation is Key
Taking the time to prepare your work area is crucial before you begin any meat preparation. Make sure your work area is clean and well-organized. This will make it easier to navigate your way around your workspace and prevent any cross-contamination between different meats. Always clean and sanitize your knives, cutting board, and countertops before you start working with meat to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria.
Safe Meat Handling Techniques
When handling meat, ensure that you are keeping it in the right temperature environment, such as a refrigerator or cooler, to prevent it from spoiling or growing bacteria. When defrosting meat, never leave it out at room temperature for more than two hours. Thawing meat in the refrigerator is the safest way, but if you’re short on time, consider microwaving it or running cold water over it to speed up the process. Also, avoid touching any other item such as a phone, computer, appliances, or any unnecessary surfaces while working with meat. This is to ensure maximum safety and cleanliness.
Cleanliness Is Your Friend
As much as meat preparation can be messy, don’t let that affect your hygiene. Always wear gloves when handling raw meat, and change them frequently. Wash your hands frequently throughout the process to avoid any cross-contamination. When finished, wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria.
Conclusion
Meat preparation can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to take a toll on your beauty routine. By investing in the right tools, following safe handling techniques and practicing good hygiene, you can maintain your beauty whilst dealing with meat. Incorporating these tips into your cooking routine will not only make you look great but also give you confidence in your culinary ability.
