Quick way to thaw meat

[who24]

Hi all.  I have a deer shoulder probably about 6 pounds.  I forgot to start thawing yesterday and I'm wanting to put this thing on the smoker in the next 5 to 8 hours.  any recommendations on how to speed thaw?? Thanks.

 

[sausageboy]

Cold water thawing is probably your best bet.

"Cold Water Thawing  
This method is faster than refrigerator thawing but requires more attention. The food must be in a leak-proof package or plastic bag. If the bag leaks, bacteria from the air or surrounding environment could be introduced into the food. Also, the meat tissue may absorb water, resulting in a watery product. 

The bag should be submerged in cold tap water, changing the water every 30 minutes so it continues to thaw. Small packages of meat, poultry or seafood — about a pound — may thaw in an hour or less. A 3-to 4-pound package may take 2 to 3 hours. For whole turkeys, estimate about 30 minutes per pound. If thawed completely, the food must be cooked immediately. 

Foods thawed by the cold water method should be cooked before refreezing." 

http://www.fsis.usda.gov/factsheets/Big_Thaw/#2

 

[fpnmf]

http://www.fsis.usda.gov/factsheets/Big_Thaw/

  Craig

• SausageBoy

hahahahahahahhahahha great minds...

 

[who24]

Good quick responses.  I knew I could count on this forum.  I'm getting started now.  Thanks.

 

[SmokinAl]

Don't forget the camera!

 

[venture]

If thawing in water, why not make it a brine?  It won't have much time to act, but what could it hurt?

Good luck and good smoking.

 

[mballi3011]

I have always used the cold water technique but Venture does have a point. Use a brine in the same way.