Why was my beef tough?
Chef's answer
In general, exercise toughens muscles. ... Additionally, overcooking meat, even meat that comes from the more tender muscles, can make it tough. That's because heat causes the proteins in the meat to firm up. Overcooking also basically squeezes the moisture out of the meat, making it dry as well as tough.
Frequently asked Questions 🎓
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8 Simple Ways to Make Tough Meat TenderPhysically tenderize the meat. For tough cuts like chuck steak, a meat mallet can be a surprisingly effective way to break down those tough muscle fibers. ... Use a marinade. ... Don't forget the salt. ... Let it come up to room temperature. ... Cook it low-and-slow. ... Hit the right internal temperature. ... Rest your meat. ... Slice against the grain.
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If you toss cold meat into a hot pan, the fat immediately starts to seize up, resulting in bacon that has a gummy texture. For perfectly crisp strips with tender-but-not-gummy fat, start the bacon in a cold pan over medium-low heat, and take your time.
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If the brisket is tough, it is because it needs more time to cook to tenderize and break down the connective tissues. ... Do not think that your brisket is wasted. The following recipe and instructions turned my once very tough brisket into some of the most tender fall apart meat.
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The word "boiling" is deceptive, though, since meat really shouldn't be boiled. ... After browning the meat and adding liquids, bring to a light simmer then reduce the heat so that it is just bubbling every now and then. This will give you the most tender meat.
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Salting raw meat draws out the moisture and dehydrates it, making it tough when cooked, a spokesperson for the delivery service said. They advise oiling the meat before cooking it and seasoning once it's cooked.
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The reason many people believe larger lobsters are tough is simply because they overcook them. Just remember to bring your pot back to a rolling boil and regulate the heat. The tail is a good indicator of freshness. It will contract and curl when cooked.
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The way you prepare lobster tails is paramount. What you don't want is chewy, rubbery and tough lobster tails that need to be drowned in melted butter. Lobster's soft flesh, once cooked, should be pristine white, soft and tender. You should be able to eat it with a fork, from the shell or not.
A few more cooking questions 📍