How to reduce fat in regular ground beef or ground pork

By North Star


By following the easy steps below, you can cut the fat in your favorite recipes that call for cooked ground beef or pork crumbles, such as chili, Sloppy Joes, spaghetti with meat sauce, and tacos.

This technique will allow you to take advantage of lower-priced, higher-fat ground beef and still enjoy the benefits of a leaner product.

If you buy ground meat that is 95% or higher lean do not bother doing this, as there is very little reduction in fat since the item is so lean.

1. Brown ground meat in skillet over medium heat 8 to 10 minutes or until no longer pink. Stir occasionally to break beef into large pieces (about 1/2-inch). You can also do this in a colander in the microwave set above a dish to collect the fat.

2. Meanwhile, microwave 4 cups water in a 1-quart glass measuring cup or microwaveable bowl on HIGH 5 to 6 minutes or until very hot, but not boiling (150° to 160°F).

3. Drain fat from skillet or drain in a colander.

4. Using a slotted spoon, remove meat crumbles to large plate or cookie sheet lined with 3 layers of white, food safe paper towels. Let sit 1 minute; blot top of meat with more paper towels.

5. Place meat in a fine mesh strainer or colander and set it on a 1 1/2-quart (or larger) sturdy bowl. Pour hot water over beef to rinse fat. Drain 5 minutes.

6. Proceed as recipe directs.

Note: To save time, de-fat extra and freeze for the next time it’s needed.