Had a cook planned for this afternoon and now guests are not coming. I have had 4 two inch thick high quality pork chops in a wet brine for approximately 18 hours. Question can I rinse the brine off, vacuum seal and freeze for later cooking? Or should I go ahead and smoke the chops, cool, vacuum seal and freeze for later thawing and warming prior to eating? Which is best and why??? I need experienced, knowledgeable opinions now!!!! Help please.
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You could go either way depending on what you want to do with the meat in the future.
If I'm wanting to prep meat for quick meals, I'll cook the meat, divide into appropriate portions, bag and vac seal as flat as possible, and freeze. Thaw in the fridge or cool water for a fast, good meal in a very short time.
On the other hand, if I have some nice steaks or thick chops for a special meal where presentation, sizzle and aroma are important, then I'd prefer to freeze then cook. There is no way to re-create the smell and appearance of freshly cooked meat hot off the grill.
Brine or not before freezing makes no difference -- either way is okay. -
I prefer to either freeze them with a little oil creating contact between the meat and bag. the oil helps create gives you more insulation from freezer burn.
IF you cook them first, add a little gelatin and bag & seal as soon as they are cool enough to handle. If you then use the sous vide to reheat, it is as close to fresh as you can get from the freezer.Comment
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Yup. I would def rinse the seal and freeze. That way you can drop them right in sous vide from frozen and finish on the grill or thaw and cook as you would.Comment
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Thanks so much to all of you who have commented. I agree I have not ever had warmed up meat that was as good as when freshly cooked. While waiting for informed opinions I have been googling and it seems expert sites agree with all of you. I will rinse the chops really well in cold water to remove as much salt as possible, then pat dry, seal and freeze for later. Karon Adams I especially like your recommendation to oil them prior to freezing. I have never thought of that before but sounds like a great idea. Also, I will plan to note on the bags that these have been previously brined! Cheers to each of you
and thanks again!
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If you have the time i would let them rest after rinsing in the fridge unconvered for a little bit to dry more before freezing.Comment
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