How to use a meat thermometer

A meat thermometer is used to measure the internal temperature of meat during cooking and is the easiest and most accurate way to tell if a roast is ready.

How to tell when your roast is done

When your beef or lamb roast is done, the internal temperature of the meat will be: 

Check the temperature of the beef or lamb just before the estimated cooking time is up. For the juiciest roast, take the meat out of the oven just short of the goal as the internal temperature of the meat can rise 5ºC - 10ºC as it rests.

Types of meat thermometers and how to use them

• Ovenproof leave-in style thermometers are inserted into the thickest part of the roast and remain in the meat during cooking. The probe shouldn’t touch bone or fatty areas (which hold more heat). These inexpensive meat thermometers are available from supermarkets and kitchenware shops.
  
• Instant-read thermometers are lightweight and have a thin probe. Do not leave these thermometers in the meat for more than 30 or 40 seconds (some are only heat resistant). Insert the probe into the thickest part of the meat (avoiding bone) and wait 30 seconds for it to register accurately. If the beef or lamb is within 10 to 5 degrees of your aim, begin checking it around every 5 minutes.
  
• Digital probe thermometers have a thin sensor that probes the beef or lamb and remains in the roast during cooking. The sensor is attached to a wire that runs out of the oven door to a small unit that gives constant updates on the internal temperature of the meat. 
   

Tips for using a meat thermometer when roasting

• It can be difficult to judge the doneness of odd-shaped meats as the heat doesn't reach all areas at the same time. If necessary take two readings of the beef or lamb in different places with a meat thermometer.
  
• Stuffed and rolled meats require longer roasting times as they have more layers for the heat to penetrate. These are best cooked to well done. The internal temperature of the meat should be taken in two different places.

Also, read more on:

• How to carve a beef roast
• Get to know the different beef roast cuts
• How to cook a beef or lamb roast in a barbecue
• How to tie a beef or lamb roast
• How to make gravy
• How and why we rest meat after cooking