Let’s Talk Thermometers

Let’s Talk Thermometers

There are a variety of cooking thermometers on the market, and many have different uses. Some are used for candy making while others check the surface temperatures of foods. But the thermometer best used for checking internal temperatures to ensure the doneness of food—like turkey—is a probe-type thermometer that allows you to reach the thickest parts of the product. There are different styles of probe thermometers; here are some examples and their intended applications:

• Dial Oven-Safe. It can be left in the food while cooking large foods like whole poultry and roasts. Place in the thickest part of the food.
• Digital Instant-Read. Good for thin foods and gives quick results. Insert at least ½-inch deep into the food. Not oven-safe.
• Dial Instant-Read. Good for larger foods and soups. Reads in about 15-20 seconds. Place 2-2½” deep into thickest part of the food. Insert sideways into thinner foods. Not oven-safe.
• Pop-Up. These are in whole turkeys or chickens. They are made of food safe nylon and are reliable within 1-2°F. Always double check doneness with a conventional thermometer in the innermost part of the thigh and thickest part of the breast.
• Digital Oven Probe with Cord. These can be used in most foods and is oven safe. The base unit sits on the stovetop or counter.