If you don’t know this hack, you’re missing out!

The Best Meats to Rest Before Cooking

While the resting hack works wonders for most cuts of meat, it’s particularly effective for thicker pieces like steaks, roasts, and chicken breasts. Here’s a breakdown of how it can help specific meats:

1. Steaks and Pork Chops:
   Resting your steak or pork chop before cooking helps the meat cook more evenly, so the entire cut stays juicy and tender. It also reduces the likelihood of the meat shrinking when it hits the heat, which can happen when it’s too cold at the start.
2. Chicken Breasts:
   For chicken breasts, especially boneless and skinless ones, resting helps the meat cook through more evenly. Because chicken breasts can dry out easily, this hack ensures a more moist and flavorful result.
3. Roasts:
   A large roast benefits from resting before cooking because it allows the meat to cook through more consistently. This technique is especially important for thicker cuts like prime rib or roast beef.

Other Hacks to Enhance Your Cooking

Once you’ve mastered the “resting before cooking” technique, why not keep going and explore a few more kitchen hacks that will make your cooking more efficient and enjoyable?

1. Use a Meat Thermometer:
   A meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking. Instead of relying on the “timing method,” use a thermometer to ensure your meat is cooked to perfection every time. This guarantees you avoid overcooking and undercooking, ensuring juicy and tender results.
2. Pat Your Meat Dry:
   Before cooking, use a paper towel to pat your meat dry. This step is especially important for meats that are meant to have a crispy crust, like steak or chicken. Removing excess moisture helps the meat sear properly, locking in flavors.
3. Marinate for Flavor (But Not Too Long!):
   Marinating meat can bring it to a whole new level of flavor, but be careful not to overdo it. Marinades with acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus can break down the fibers of the meat if left too long, resulting in mushy texture. For best results, marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
4. Use Cast Iron for Searing:
   If you want that beautiful, crispy crust on your steak or chicken, a cast-iron skillet is your best friend. The skillet’s even heat distribution gives you that perfect sear, which locks in all the delicious juices inside.
5. Rest After Cooking (Yes, It Works Both Ways!):
   Just as you should rest your meat before cooking, don’t forget to rest it after. Allowing cooked meat to sit for a few minutes helps redistribute the juices, keeping it tender and flavorful when you slice into it. Let steaks rest for about 5 minutes, and larger roasts for 10-15 minutes, before serving.

Conclusion: A Simple Hack for Big Flavor

If you’re not resting your meat before cooking, you’re missing out on one of the simplest, yet most effective hacks to improve your dishes. Bringing meat to room temperature before cooking ensures even cooking, juicier textures, and more flavor in every bite. Pair that with a few other kitchen tricks, and you’ll be on your way to culinary greatness in no time!

The best part? These tips don’t require fancy equipment or hours of prep. A little bit of patience and some attention to detail are all you need to take your cooking to the next level. Try this hack next time you’re in the kitchen and prepare to be amazed by the results!