How Do I Thaw Pork Chops Quickly?
To thaw pork chops quickly, place them in a cold tap-water bath. Pork chops require approximately 30 minutes of defrosting time per pound.
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Arrange pork chops for freezing
When putting the pork chops in the freezer, arrange them in a single layer and wrap tightly in an airtight bag to avoid leaking juices while preserving the quality of the meat. This arrangement ensures the pork chops freeze as well as thaw quickly.
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Submerge pork chops in cold water
When ready to thaw, place the bag of frozen pork chops in a bath of cold tap water. Be mindful of the water temperature, as hot water can lead to the propagation of harmful bacteria. To ensure the water stays at a safe and cool temperature, change it every 20 to 30 minutes. Small packages can defrost in as little as an hour, while bigger portions are estimated to take 30 minutes per pound.
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Practice proper food-handling procedures
After the pork chops are fully defrosted, prepare to cook them immediately. If there is a change of plans, freeze the pork chops again only after cooking them thoroughly. Also, wash hands and clean all surfaces after handling raw food to minimize risk of contamination.
