We tested this unusual method for defrosting meat to see if it really works: Video

In an ideal world, we’d remember to put our frozen beef or chicken in the fridge to defrost the night before we need it. Of course, life often gets in the way and that doesn’t always happen, so finding a faster way to safely defrost frozen meat is essential if you don’t want to switch up your dinner plans. 

Regardless of the method, defrosting is a waiting game. Storing meat in resealable bags and, when possible, making them as flat as possible, can make a difference in how long it takes it to defrost. Plus, the flatter packing also saves room in your freezer. When transferring goods into freezer-safe bags, don’t forget to date and label the bags. 

Watch this video to learn how to quickly defrost frozen meat.

How to defrost meat

Defrosting meat in the microwave might sound like a tempting and time-saving solution, but it’s the least effective way to do it. It often doesn't defrost the food evenly and can cook some of the meat when you don’t want it to. When possible, avoid doing this. 

Another popular method is putting the meat in a bowl of water to defrost. This is a very efficient method, however can take a lot of time. 

Here’s an unconventional method: sandwich the frozen meat between two pots or pans. Grab two of your kitchen staples like stainless steel pots, baking sheets or cast iron skillets. The only real requirement is that the bottom is flat with a large enough surface area to cover the meat. 

The thinner the layer of meat, the faster it will defrost. The meat can stay in its original packaging or you can transfer it into a plastic bag. Styrofoam can act as an insulator and keep the meat cold, so it’s best to remove that when possible. 

To defrost using a pot or skillet: 

1. Take one of the cooking vessels and place it upside down.
2. Place the frozen meat on it. 
3. Place the other pot on top, right side up. 

It might look silly, but it works! Depending on the meat, you can start to see results in less than 10 minutes. 

From our experiment, the heavier-duty cast iron skillet thawed the fastest. The idea is that metal conducts and transfers heat better than air in your room and our test confirmed that this method of using pans helps defrost faster than setting the meat out to defrost on a plate at room temperature. 

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Can I defrost and refreeze meat

Yes, you can refreeze meat and poultry that has been defrosted, according to the USDA. However, the agency advises against refreezing food left outside the refrigerator for more than two hours.