Cheap Thermometers Fix Overcooked Meat
Chefs recommend digital probes under $20 that read internal temperatures in seconds to preserve moisture.
By Giulia Donovan ·
Digital meat thermometers cost less than $20 and eliminate the need to cut into protein to check doneness. Lauren Allen, chef and owner of Lauren Allen Dinners, states that these devices measure internal temperature without opening the meat. This process prevents moisture loss, resulting in juicier food cooked to the desired level.
Two chefs, Allen and Kevin Gillespie, a James Beard nominated chef and MeatEater contributor, advise home cooks on selecting these tools. They prefer instant read models over probe thermometers that stay in the meat during cooking. Instant read devices offer faster and more accurate temperatures, and both experts recommend digital displays over analog dials.
Gillespie describes digital thermometers as faultless and extremely quick to read. Allen emphasizes probe size, noting that larger probes cause more juice to flow out after testing. She advises shoppers to look for skinny probes to minimize liquid loss. The tools must also withstand high heat, with Allen specifying that they should handle temperatures up to 250 degrees Fahrenheit.
Usage requires placing the probe in the middle and thickest part of the protein while avoiding bone. Allen warns that checking the thinnest area may yield false readings. Users should remove the thermometer immediately after taking a reading to prevent the plastic casing from melting. The probe should be wiped with soap and water after each use, avoiding full submersion of the device.
Specific internal temperatures vary by protein type. Poultry requires at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid bacteria. For pork, Allen suggests 140 degrees Fahrenheit for organic cuts, while Gillespie recommends 150 degrees. Steak temperatures depend on preference, ranging from 125 degrees for medium rare to 165 degrees for well done. Fish guidelines vary, with salmon requiring 145 degrees and snapper around 130 degrees.
Retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target sell digital thermometers with average ratings of at least four stars from more than 1,000 reviews. Models feature read times between two and five seconds, backlit LCD screens, and magnetic backs for fridge storage. Some include rotating probes that fold for protection, and others display temperatures in Celsius or Fahrenheit. One model includes a reference guide for internal temperatures printed on the device.
