Thursday, January 15, 2026

I’m a butcher: here’s the number one tip I always give for freezing meat


 

Freezing food is often thought to be child’s play… yet this everyday task hides far more subtleties than it seems. Between good intentions and unfortunate habits, it sometimes takes very little to miss the point. What if your routines aren’t as flawless as you think? A meat expert sheds light on these small details that make all the difference, without ever complicating life or diminishing the pleasure of everyday cooking.
The freezer, a valuable ally… provided it is properly adjusted

Before even discussing meat, we must consider its environment: the freezer. Too often, it’s treated as a simple cold cupboard, when in fact it requires a minimum of attention. The golden rule? A stable temperature, ideally -18°C or lower. The more consistent the cold, the better the food retains its texture and flavor.
Another point that’s often put off is cleaning. Every six months or so, a complete defrost followed by a gentle wash with white vinegar allows you to start fresh before putting food back inside. The result: a more efficient appliance, without lingering odors, and much more reliable preservation. Finally, be careful not to overload it. Beyond three-quarters full, air circulation is poor, which is detrimental to all the stored products… including meat.

Common mistakes when freezing meat

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It’s often when putting away groceries that mistakes begin. Freezing meat nearing its expiration date, for example, is a very bad idea. Even if the cold slows down bacterial growth, it doesn’t work miracles: when defrosted, the food is “as before,” but with compromised quality.
Another habit to change: neglecting the journey from the store to home. Meat thrives on stability, not sudden temperature changes. Using an insulated bag and, if possible, a freezer pack, helps preserve the product’s quality until it reaches the freezer. As Boucherie Jumeaux, which has a large following on social media, often reminds us, well-handled meat remains flavorful and enjoyable to cook, even after freezing.

The right steps for stress-free freezing

Fortunately, freezing meat properly is quite simple. It just requires a little organization. First, remember to wrap each piece well: thick freezer bags, cling film, or airtight containers are all good options. The goal is to prevent contact with air and freezer burn. Don’t hesitate to divide the meat into portions suitable for your meals: it’s more practical and avoids unnecessary defrosting.

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Remember to label your food. A simple marker and the freezing date will keep things clear, especially when your freezer starts to fill up. It’s a small step that makes all the difference, a bit like organizing your paperwork: you save time, increase efficiency, and gain peace of mind, all while optimizing the freezing of your meat .

Defrosting, the often underestimated step
This is often where everything hinges. Due to lack of time, we’re tempted to rush things… but that’s never the best option. The safest method remains slow defrosting in the refrigerator, ideally 12 to 24 hours in advance depending on the thickness of the cuts. This step must absolutely precede cooking to guarantee healthy and flavorful meat.

While quick and easy cooking methods might seem convenient, they expose meat to potentially dangerous temperature zones and complicate the cooking process. Taking the time to properly prepare meat ensures a more successful culinary experience, without any unpleasant surprises when you eat it.

Adopting these few simple habits will transform freezing into a true ally in everyday life and allow you to fully enjoy every dish, with confidence and pleasure.


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