How to quickly defrost frozen foods

Freezing food is one of the easiest ways to keep it fresh for longer, but when you need to defrost it, things can get tricky. 

Often, we find ourselves in a hurry, wishing the food could defrost faster. Whether you forgot to take the meat out of the freezer in time or you need to prepare dinner quickly, knowing the right ways to defrost food safely and efficiently can save you a lot of stress.

Defrosting food too quickly or at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven thawing, affecting texture and taste. Worse, it can even create a breeding ground for bacteria if not done properly.

To help you defrost foods safely and quickly, here are a few methods you can use at home:

1. Use cold water

One of the quickest and safest ways to defrost frozen food is by using cold water. Here’s how:

• Place the food in a sealed plastic bag. This helps to keep the water from touching the food directly, which can lead to unwanted textures.
• Submerge it in a bowl of cold water. Make sure the water is cold, not warm. Cold water is safer, as it keeps bacteria from growing on the food’s surface.
• Change the water every 30 minutes. This keeps the water cold and speeds up the process. Depending on the size, food can be defrosted in about 1-3 hours.

Cold water defrosting is perfect for items like meats, fish, and even certain vegetables, as it keeps them safe and retains their natural texture.

2. Microwave defrosting

Using a microwave is the fastest method for defrosting, especially when you’re in a rush. Here’s how to do it right:

• Place the food on a microwave-safe plate, as this prevents messes and allows the food to thaw evenly.
• Use the microwave’s defrost setting. Many microwaves have a defrost button, which automatically adjusts the power to a low level, making it safer for thawing.
• Rotate and check every few minutes. Defrosting in the microwave can sometimes start cooking the food, so be sure to pause and check every couple of minutes.

RELATED: 5 foods you should never microwave and why

Microwave defrosting works best for smaller items or when you’re short on time, but be careful with larger pieces of meat as they may start to cook on the outside before fully defrosting in the centre.

3. Thawing in the refrigerator

Although slower, refrigerator thawing is the safest method if you have time. Simply move the food from the freezer to the fridge, and it will defrost gradually:

• Plan ahead: For large items like a turkey, you may need 1-2 days in the fridge.
• Use a plate or tray: Place food on a tray to catch any dripping liquids and prevent contamination.

Refrigerator thawing is ideal for people who want to prep meals in advance and avoid any risk of bacteria growth.

4. Avoid using hot water

While it may seem like hot water would speed things up, using warm or hot water to defrost food can create dangerous temperatures where bacteria thrive. It can also ruin the texture of the food, leaving it mushy or partially cooked. Stick to cold water or a microwave for a quick, safe defrost.

Each of these defrosting methods can save you time and effort. With the right technique, you can quickly get your frozen food ready for cooking while keeping it safe and delicious.

ALSO READ: 4 myths about defrosting food and what you should do instead