How to Defrost Beyond Burgers in the Microwave
Beyond Burgers have gained popularity as a plant-based alternative to traditional beef patties. Whether you follow a plant-based diet or simply enjoy meatless options, Beyond Burgers can be a delicious and quick meal. Before cooking these patties, however, they must be properly defrosted. In this article, we will explore the best way to defrost Beyond Burgers in the microwave.
The best way to thaw Beyond Burgers
The manufacturer recommends defrosting Beyond Burgers by taking them out of the freezer the night before you plan to cook them and allowing them to thaw slowly in the refrigerator. This method is preferred because Beyond Burgers have less fat than traditional beef patties. Thawing overnight ensures even defrosting and reduces the risk of uneven cooking.
Defrosting Beyond Burgers in the microwave
If you find yourself in a situation where you need to defrost Beyond Burgers quickly, you can use your microwave. However, it’s important to note that defrosting Beyond Burgers in the microwave requires careful attention to avoid overheating or uneven cooking.
To defrost Beyond Burgers in the microwave, follow these steps:
- Find the defrost setting on your microwave. This setting reduces the power to about 70% of normal, preventing the patty from cooking on the outside before the inside is thawed.
- Place your frozen Beyond Burgers on a microwave-safe plate.
- Heat the burger patty(s) in 30-second bursts. This allows for gradual and controlled thawing.
- Once you can poke a toothpick through the patty, make 5 or 6 holes in the patty. This will allow the heat waves to penetrate the patty more evenly.
- If the outside of the patty begins to brown, stop heating immediately.
- If the patty is still slightly frozen, you can cook it in a pan at a slightly lower temperature for a little longer on each side to compensate.
By following these steps and closely monitoring the patty, you can effectively defrost Beyond Burgers in the microwave. However, it’s important to note that the best method for defrosting Beyond Burgers is to place them in an airtight container or their original packaging in the refrigerator overnight.
Cooking Beyond Burgers from frozen
If you prefer not to thaw Beyond Burgers before cooking, you can cook them directly from frozen. However, it’s important to adjust the cooking process to ensure even heating and the desired texture.
To cook Beyond Burgers from frozen, follow these guidelines:
- Use medium to low heat. Cooking over high heat may result in a burger that is dark on the outside and still pink on the inside.
- Cook each patty 1-2 minutes longer on each side than the recommended cooking time. This allows heat to penetrate the frozen center.
- Once the center is warm, you can increase the heat if you prefer a crisper exterior.
It’s important to note that once thawed, Beyond Burgers should not be refrozen. If you purchased frozen Beyond Meat patties, you can store them in the freezer until you’re ready to cook. However, if you have unused patties, it’s best to refrigerate and consume within 2-3 days.
Bottom line
Proper defrosting of Beyond Burgers is essential to ensure even cooking and optimal flavor. While thawing in the refrigerator overnight is the recommended method, you can also defrost them in the microwave using the defrost setting and following the steps outlined in this article. If you prefer to cook them from frozen, adjust the cooking time and heat to ensure a satisfying texture. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy delicious plant-based burgers with ease.
FAQS
Can I defrost Beyond Burgers in the microwave?
Yes, you can defrost Beyond Burgers in the microwave using the proper settings and techniques.
How long does it take to defrost Beyond Burgers in the microwave?
The defrosting time can vary depending on the wattage of your microwave, but it is recommended to defrost Beyond Burgers in 30 second intervals to avoid overheating.
Why is it best to defrost Beyond Burgers overnight in the refrigerator?
Thawing Beyond Burgers in the refrigerator overnight allows for even defrosting and reduces the risk of uneven cooking. It also helps maintain the texture and flavor of the patties.
What do I do if the patty starts to cook on the outside before it’s completely thawed?
If you notice the outside of the patty browning before the inside is thawed, stop heating immediately. This can be prevented by using the defrost setting on your microwave and heating the patty in shorter intervals.
Can I cook Beyond Burgers straight from the freezer?
Yes, you can reheat Beyond Burgers from frozen. However, you will need to adjust the cooking time and heat to ensure thorough heating and the desired texture.
Can I refreeze Beyond Burgers after thawing?
It is not recommended to refreeze Beyond Burgers once thawed. It is best to cook and consume them after thawing or refrigerate for future use within 2-3 days.