A meat thermometer is a kitchen gadget that is used to measure the internal temperature of cooked meat. The thermometer is inserted into the thickest part of the meat, away from any bone. Depending on the type of meat being cooked, the ideal internal temperature will vary. For example, chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, while steak can be cooked to anywhere from 145-160 degrees Fahrenheit (depending on how you like it).
Here are some step-by-step instructions for using a meat thermometer:
1. Preheat your oven (if cooking the meat in an oven) to the appropriate temperature according to your recipe.
2. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, making sure that it does not touch any bone.
3. If cooking in an oven, leave the thermometer in for several minutes until it stabilizes at the correct temperature reading. If grilling or smoking meats, insert and remove quickly so as not to overcook your food!
4. Once stabilized or removed from grill/smoker, check against desired doneness chart below and enjoy!
rare: 115–120 °F | medium rare: 125–130 °F | medium: 135–145 °F | well done: 150–165 °F