Did you know...

That rinsing your beef can reduce the fat content by almost HALF in most cases? Check it:


Reducing Fat in Cooked Ground Beef

A study in the Journal of The American Dietetic Association* has good news for beef eaters.
Nutrition researchers found that a simple rinsing process reduced the fat content of cooked ground
beef crumbles by as much as 50 percent. And, blotting can be used to reduce the fat content of
cooked burgers, meatballs and meatloaf. So whether you buy ground beef for taste, convenience
or price, you also can enjoy the health benefits of lower-fat ground beef with a few easy steps.

Reducing Fat in Cooked Ground Beef Crumbles by Rinsing and Draining:
By following the easy steps below, you can cut the fat in your favorite recipes that call for cooked
ground beef crumbles, such as chili, Sloppy Joes, spaghetti with meat sauce and tacos. This
technique will allow you to take advantage of lower-priced, higher-fat ground beef and still
enjoy the benefits of a leaner product.

1.Brown ground beef in skillet over medium heat 8 to 10 minutes or until no
longer pink. Stir occasionally to break beef into large pieces (about 1/4 inch).

2.Meanwhile microwave 4 cups water in 1-quart glass measuring cup or
microwaveable bowl on HIGH 5 to 6 minutes or until very hot, but not
boiling (150 to 160 degrees F).

3.Drain fat from skillet.
Using a slotted spoon, remove beef crumbles to large plate or other container
lined with 3 layers of white, non-recycled paper towels. Let sit 1 minute; blot
top of beef with more paper towels.

4.Place beef in a line mesh strainer or colander and set it on a 1/2-quart (or
larger) sturdy bowl.
Pour hot water over beef to rinse fat. Drain 5 minutes.

Proceed as recipe directs.

If your recipe calls for browning ground beef with onion or garlic, these items
can be added during the cooking process. Rinsing the beef after cooking
results in minimal flavor loss. Additional seasonings and herbs may be added
after rinsing as desired.

Ground Beef - 80% Lean/20%
Pan-broiled crumbles, after blotting only Cal:191 Fat:11
Pan-broiled crumbles, after blotting and rinsing Cal:130 Fat:5

Sources: Iowa State University, Dept. of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Nov.1992
USDA Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 11-1(1997)
Thanks to kimbenson.com for this great info!