How to Rest Meat After Cooking

Notes

Resting allows the muscle fibers to relax and reabsorb juices, ensuring a succulent final product. Always use a meat thermometer to check doneness before resting.

Steps

1. 1 Remove the cooked meat from the heat source and place it on a clean cutting board or plate.
2. 2 Loosely tent the meat with aluminum foil to keep it warm without trapping too much heat.
3. 3 Allow the meat to rest for 5 to 10 minutes per inch of thickness, or until it feels warm but not hot to the touch.
4. 4 For larger cuts like roasts, rest for at least 15 to 20 minutes to ensure even distribution of juices.
5. 5 Avoid cutting into the meat too soon, as this can cause the juices to escape.
6. 6 After resting, carve or slice the meat against the grain for tender pieces.