Are you looking to improve how you cook your protein? Like how regular exercise can improve your physical and mental health, properly cooking meat is crucial for working out a protein’s desired flavor and texture.
If you are ready to take your cooking to the next level, you must learn the proper techniques for cooking meat, including the proper cooking times. In this post, we’ll discuss the different types of protein and how to cook them. Then, we will share a cooking time calculator so you can avoid foodborne illnesses and ensure your body stays a well-oiled machine.
Undercooked Meat + Foodborne Illnesses
For fitness experts, protein holds a lot of power. But undercooked meat can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria that cause foodborne illnesses. These include, but aren’t limited to, Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter.
These bacteria can cause foodborne illnesses ranging from mild to severe symptoms, including diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fever. These illnesses may even lead to hospitalization or death for people with compromised immune systems. That is why it is essential to cook meat to the appropriate temperature to destroy harmful bacteria and ensure it's safe for your body.
How To Cook Protein Properly
To ensure that your meat is safe to eat, it is important to follow proper cooking techniques. First, cook your meat thoroughly and use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the appropriate temperature. Different meats require different temperatures, so research the proper temperature for the type of meat you're cooking. Still need help? Check out this meat cooking time calculator, where you can customize the type of protein and cut of meat to ensure you get your desired results.
Additionally, practicing good food safety habits when handling raw meat is important. Wash your hands and any surfaces that come into contact with raw meat, and use separate cutting boards and utensils for meats and other foods.
By cooking your proteins properly and following good food safety habits, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of foodborne illnesses.
Common Meat Cooking Times
Different types of meat require different internal temperatures and cooking times. Whether you want to grill some burgers for yourself or are planning on cooking the perfect Thanksgiving turkey, here are some basic guidelines about internal temperatures:
Beef: The internal temperature of ground beef should reach 160°F (71°C), while you should cook steaks and roasts to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, and 170°F (77°C) for well-done.
Chicken and turkey: The internal temperature of poultry should reach 165°F (74°C) throughout the meat, including the thickest part of the bird.
Pork: Cook pork to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, and 170°F (77°C) for well-done.
Lamb: The internal temperature of lamb should reach 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, and 170°F (77°C) for well-done.
Ham: Fully cooked ham should be heated to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C), while you should cook fresh ham to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Remember that these are just general guidelines to follow. Always use a meat thermometer and a meat cooking time calculator to confirm that you fully cooked your meat.
Cady Cohen is a seasoned content marketing specialist hailing from the Sunshine State. She has a passion for crafting compelling narratives with a deep understanding of digital marketing trends. When she isn’t creating content or keeping an eye on the latest trends, you can find Cady exploring new culinary experiences or practicing yoga by the lake.