How to Defrost Impossible Sausage: A Step-by-Step Guide

Impossible Foods has revolutionized the plant-based meat industry with their incredibly realistic sausage made from plants However, defrosting their frozen Impossible sausage properly is key to ensuring it cooks up just like fresh

In this guide, I’ll walk through the best methods to safely thaw Impossible’s Italian, Breakfast, and Brat sausage styles Follow these simple steps for tender, juicy plant-based sausage every time

Why Defrosting Matters

It can be tempting to skip defrosting and throw frozen Impossible sausage straight into the pan. But this leads to uneven cooking, with burnt outsides and icy centers. Thawing helps the plant-based meat cook gently and evenly all the way through.

Proper defrosting also prevents bacterial growth. While Impossible sausage is cooked and safe from dangerous pathogens, thawing at room temperature too long allows spoilage organisms to multiply. Careful defrosting keeps the sausage stays in the optimal 40°F or below temperature zone.

Finally, correct thawing brings out the Impossible sausage’s savory flavor and texture. Cooking frozen dulls the juiciness, spices, and overall meaty bite. A good thaw helps maximize the authentic sausage experience you expect from Impossible.

Refrigerator Thawing

For slow, safe, and hands-off defrosting, using your refrigerator is best. Here is a simple process:

1. Remove sausage from packaging and place in a single layer on a plate or shallow dish.

2. Loosely cover the plate with plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn.

3. Place plate on a lower shelf of the refrigerator, away from raw meats.

4. Allow sausage to thaw 8-12 hours for links, 12-24 hours for patties.

5. Check and flip occasionally for even thawing.

6. Cook immediately or store 1-2 days max after thawed.

Thanks to the cool temperature, thawing in the fridge minimizes bacterial growth while gently rehydrating the sausage.

Cold Water Thawing

When you need to defrost Impossible sausage faster, a cold water bath works great. Follow these steps:

1. Remove sausage from package and place in a large bowl or pot.

2. Completely submerge the sausage in cold tap water.

3. Change the water every 30 minutes to keep it cold.

4. Sausage should thaw in about 1-2 hours.

5. Cook thawed sausage within 1 hour for food safety.

The cold water pulls heat away from the sausage evenly for quick but safe defrosting. Add some ice to maintain a temperature below 40°F.

Microwave Thawing

Microwaving can thaw frozen Impossible sausage in just 5-6 minutes. But use care:

1. Place sausage in a microwave-safe dish in a single layer.

2. Microwave at 50% power if available, otherwise use 30% power.

3. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, checking frequently.

4. Continue until pliable but still icy inside. Let stand 5 minutes.

5. Cook thoroughly immediately, within 1 hour max.

Frequent checks and standing time prevent over-thawing. Never microwave frozen sausage without defrosting first.

Thawing Impossible Breakfast Sausage

Impossible’s pre-made breakfast sausage patties can be thawed using the same methods. Because they are thicker than links, allow a bit more time in the refrigerator or water bath. Check for any icy sections and continue defrosting in 30-second microwave bursts as needed.

Thawing Impossible Sausage Safely

To safely thaw Impossible sausage:

• Use refrigerator, cold water, or microwave only
• Keep thawed sausage refrigerated and cook within 1-2 days
• Discard sausage left at room temperature over 2 hours
• Cook thoroughly to 165°F internal temperature
• When in doubt, throw it out! Don’t risk spoiled sausage

Proper storage after thawing is also key. Cooked Impossible sausage keeps 3-4 days refrigerated. Thawed uncooked sausage can be refrozen if needed.

Cooking Thawed Impossible Sausage

Once defrosted, Impossible sausage can be prepared in all sorts of delicious ways. Here are some top cooking methods:

• Pan-fried: Cook in a skillet over medium heat with a touch of oil. Brown on both sides.

• Grilled: Get smoky flavor by grilling over direct medium heat. Turn frequently to prevent burning.

• Baked: Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until piping hot and sizzling.

• Slow-cooked: Add to soups, chilis, casseroles. Cook on low setting for 6-8 hours.

• Microwaved: Microwave single patties or links for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Impossible sausage is extremely versatile for tacos, pizza, pasta, sandwiches, breakfasts, appetizers, and more! Always cook thoroughly to 165°F internal temperature.

Enjoy the Revolutionary Taste

With Impossible Foods’ ingenious sausage innovations and these handy defrosting tips, you can enjoy deliciously meaty plant-based sausage any night of the week. Defrost frozen links and patties safely using the fridge, cold water, or microwave based on your timeline. In no time at all, you’ll be biting into juicy, savory Impossible sausage.