Coat It with This, and Your Beef Will Stay Fresh and Tender for Two Weeks in the Fridge

If you’ve bought too much beef and can’t use it all at once, try this storage method to keep it fresh, tender, and flavorful for longer.

 

 

Beef is a nutritious and delicious ingredient, but it’s more expensive than many other meats. If not stored properly, it can spoil within a couple of days, leading to waste. Many people rinse their beef and put it directly in the freezer, but this method has drawbacks—over time, a layer of ice crystals forms on the surface, affecting its taste and texture while also reducing its nutritional value. Instead of freezing it immediately, follow these simple steps to preserve its freshness.

How to Keep Beef Fresh for Two Weeks

1. Portion the Meat

   • Divide the beef into portions based on meal sizes. This prevents unnecessary thawing and refreezing, which can degrade its quality.
   • Rinse the beef thoroughly under clean water to remove surface dirt.

2. Remove Excess Moisture

   • Place the beef on a paper towel, then cover it with another paper towel.
   • Press gently to absorb any remaining water.

3. Apply a Thin Layer of Oil

   • Lay the beef on plastic wrap and coat it lightly with cooking oil or olive oil. The oil helps retain moisture and prevents the meat from becoming tough during freezing.

4. Wrap and Seal

   • Wrap the beef tightly in plastic wrap.
   • Place the wrapped portions into a ziplock bag, seal it tightly, and store in the freezer.

How to Store Beef for Up to Six Months

1. Boil with White Wine

   • After rinsing, briefly boil the beef in water mixed with white wine (e.g., 1 teaspoon of white wine per kilogram of beef) for 10-15 minutes.

2. Add Ginger for Freshness

   • Transfer the boiled beef into an airtight container.
   • Add a piece of grilled, crushed ginger to help eliminate odors during storage.

3. Freeze in a Sealed Container

   • Let the beef cool completely before sealing the container.
   • Wrap the container with a plastic bag to prevent freezer burn.
   • Store in the freezer, where it will stay flavorful for up to six months.

Additional Storage Tips

• Always wrap beef in multiple layers of plastic or use airtight containers to prevent its smell from spreading to other foods.
• If storing in the refrigerator (not the freezer), set the temperature to 2°C (36°F).
• If freezing, set the freezer temperature to -25°C (-13°F) for optimal preservation.

By following these steps, you can keep your beef fresh, tender, and flavorful for weeks or even months!