ٖFollowing the holy tradition of Qurbani at Eid-ul-Adha, one of the practical issues for people is how to preserve and store the huge amount of meat in the best possible way. With different levels of access to refrigeration and increasing temperatures in most areas, households are looking for trustable techniques to keep their Qurbani meat fresh, safe, and edible for future use.
Preserving meat isn’t that hard to tell you the truth. In fact, meat can be preserved for weeks, months, or even up to a year—and freezing remains the most obvious method for doing so.
However, there are several other techniques for preserving meat as well.
Freezing the Meat
- Before placing the meat in the freezer, it is essential to package it properly, with the primary goal being to protect it from exposure to air.
- This can be done using plastic bags or aluminum foil that is specifically designed for freezer use.
- If that is not available, airtight containers—such as plastic jars or freezer-safe cans—can also be used.
- Where possible, remove bones from the meat, as they take up more space in the freezer and increase the workload on the appliance.
- To prevent the slices of meat from sticking together, place freezer paper or plastic wrap between them. This makes it easier to use them later during cooking.
- The freezer compartment of a refrigerator can also be used for this purpose, especially since standalone freezers consume significantly more electricity.
How Long Can Meat Be Preserved?
- Raw meat can be frozen and preserved for 4 to 12 months.
- Raw ground meat remains good for up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Cooked meat can be safely stored for 2 to 3 months.
- Importantly, the freezer temperature should be maintained at 0°F or below for optimal preservation.
Using a Cooler
- If a refrigerator or freezer is not available, a water cooler can also be used—an option that doesn’t require electricity, and can serve as a temporary solution during power outages.
- To use a cooler for this purpose, it must be filled with ice to maintain a cold temperature.
- Start by placing a layer of ice at the bottom of the cooler, then lay the meat on top, and cover it with additional ice.
- Ensure that the meat remains surrounded by ice, and replenish it as it melts.
How to Thaw Frozen Meat for Use
- If you stored the meat in an airtight package, submerge it in cold water and change the water every 30 minutes until the ice has melted.
- Carefully check the meat before cooking to ensure its color hasn’t changed due to freezing. If parts of the meat appear discolored, cut that portion. Moreover, if there’s an odor in the meat, it is best not consume it.
Preserving Meat with Salt
- Salting is one of the oldest methods of preserving meat. To use this technique, coat the meat completely in curing salt and place it in an airtight container or bag. Store it in a cool place (between 36°F and 40°F) for up to one month. Before cooking, rinse off any excess salt.
