The Strategy
A meat mallet is a wonderful tool for taking out your frustrations, but you want to use it with a gentle, sliding motion rather than just hammering away. Pounding chicken breasts or steaks to an even thickness ensures they'll cook up at the exact same rate in the pan. Tucking the meat inside a plastic bag beforehand keeps your kitchen clean and prevents the meat from tearing apart, darlin'.
Technique Summary
Pounding meat to a uniform thickness is a wonderful way to ensure every single bite cooks evenly in the skillet. Using a gentle hand and a protective barrier prevents the delicate meat from tearing or sticking.
Chef’s Checkpoints
- The meat slice appears uniform in height from edge to center when viewed horizontally.
- The surface of the meat is smooth and continuous, free of tears or shredded spots.
- The meat yields easily and feels soft and pliable to the touch.