When grilling meat on a BBQ, the frequency of taking the temperature depends on several factors, including the type of meat, its thickness, and your desired level of doneness. Taking the temperature is essential to ensure that the meat is cooked to a safe internal temperature, minimizing the risk of foodborne illnesses while also achieving the desired taste and texture.
Here are some general guidelines for when to take the temperature of the meat:
At the beginning: For larger cuts of meat, such as roasts or whole poultry, it's a good practice to take the initial temperature as soon as you place the meat on the grill. This will give you a starting point and allow you to monitor the cooking progress.
Midway through cooking: For thicker cuts of meat or those that take longer to cook, you can check the temperature midway through the grilling process. This helps you gauge how the cooking is progressing and allows you to make any necessary adjustments, such as flipping the meat or adjusting the heat.
Towards the end: As the meat approaches its target temperature, start taking more frequent readings to ensure it doesn't overcook. The internal temperature of meat can rise quickly, so it's crucial to keep a close eye on it during the final stages of grilling.
Final temperature: Finally, take the temperature when you think the meat is close to being done. For most meats, you want to cook them to a safe minimum internal temperature to ensure they are fully cooked. You can refer to a food temperature chart for safe internal temperatures for different types of meat.
Resting period: Remember that meat continues to cook slightly after it's removed from the grill. To account for this, you can take the meat off the grill when it's a few degrees below the target temperature and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. During the resting period, the internal temperature will rise a bit more, and the juices will redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful final product.
Always use a reliable meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. Digital instant-read thermometers are especially handy for quick and accurate readings.
By following these guidelines and regularly monitoring the internal temperature, you'll have better control over the grilling process and produce delicious, safe, and perfectly cooked meat.