Ingredients:
(What you’ll need for safe and delicious ground beef dishes)
- 1 lb (450g) fresh ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for cooking)
- Seasonings of choice (salt, pepper, garlic powder, etc.)
- Paper towels (for blotting cooked beef)
- Meat thermometer
Instructions:
1. Skip the Rinse
Do not rinse raw ground beef. Washing it under water can spread harmful bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella around your sink, countertops, and utensils.
2. Handle Safely
- Wash hands and surfaces thoroughly after handling raw beef.
- Keep raw meat separate from vegetables or ready-to-eat foods.
3. Cook Properly
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add beef (and olive oil if needed).
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and no longer pink.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
4. Drain and Blot
- After cooking, carefully drain excess grease from the pan.
- Use paper towels to blot the beef if you want to reduce fat — this is much safer than rinsing.
5. Flavor and Serve
- Season to taste and use the cooked beef in tacos, casseroles, spaghetti, or burgers.
Optional Step (For Ultra-Lean Beef)
If you’re following a low-fat diet, you can rinse the beef after cooking only:
- Place cooked beef in a fine mesh strainer.
- Rinse briefly under hot water.
- Pat dry with paper towels before using.
Food Safety & Flavor Tips
- Choose high-quality beef from trusted sources.
- Refrigerate or freeze meat promptly after purchase.
- Never cook or “clean” spoiled meat — if it smells bad or feels slimy, discard it.
Final Thoughts
Rinsing ground beef is not necessary and can even be unsafe. The best approach is to cook it thoroughly, drain excess grease, and season it well.
You’ll keep all the flavor — and your kitchen — much safer.