How to Defrost Impossible Sausage for Maximum Juicy, Meaty Flavor

Impossible Foods has taken the plant-based meat world by storm with their incredibly realistic sausage made entirely from plants. However, to get the most out of their Italian, Breakfast, and Brat sausage varieties, proper defrosting technique is key.

When frozen Impossible sausage is thawed correctly it cooks up incredibly similar to traditional pork sausage in both texture and flavor. Follow this guide for foolproof methods to safely defrost for tender juicy plant-based sausage perfection.

Why Proper Defrosting Matters

It’s understandable to want to skip thawing and go straight from frozen to cooking Impossible sausage. But this leads to uneven cooking, with burnt outsides and icy centers. Gentle defrosting allows the plant-based meat to heat gradually for even results.

Thawing frozen meat also prevents bacterial growth. While fully cooked, Impossible sausage can still harbor bacteria when left at room temperature too long. Keeping it cooled during defrosting avoids pathogen multiplication.

Finally, correct thawing maximizes the savory sausage flavor and moisture that makes Impossible sausage so realistic. Cooking from frozen reduces juiciness and mutes seasoning permeation. Defrosting helps draw out thatmouthwatering, meaty taste.

Fridge Defrosting for Hands-Off Thawing

For safe slow and steady defrosting, the refrigerator method works great

• Remove sausage from packaging and place in a single layer on a plate or dish.
• Loosely cover with plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Place on a lower shelf of the refrigerator far from fresh produce.
• Allow 8-12 hours for links, 12-24 hours for thicker patties.
• Check and flip periodically for even thawing.
• Cook immediately after thawing or refrigerate for 1-2 days max.

Thanks to cool temperatures, fridge thawing inhibits bacteria while gently rehydrating the sausage.

Cold Water Bath for Quick Defrosting

For faster thawing in about 1-2 hours, use this cold water method:

• Take sausage out of package and put in a large bowl or pot.
• Completely submerge in cold tap water.
• Change water every 30 minutes to keep it chilled below 40°F.
• Check frequently until thawed.
• Cook within 1 hour once thawed for food safety.

The cold water efficiently draws heat from the sausage to rapidly thaw it without letting it linger and breed bacteria.

Microwaving for Lightning-Fast Defrosting

Microwaving can thaw frozen Impossible sausage in just 5-6 minutes. Follow these tips:

• Place sausage in a microwave-safe dish in a single layer.
• Microwave at 50% power if available, otherwise use 30%.
• Microwave in 1-minute intervals, flipping and checking often.
• Stop once pliable but still icy inside. Allow to stand 5 minutes.
• Cook immediately, within 1 hour maximum.

Frequent checks prevent over-thawing. Never microwave frozen meat without defrosting first.

Thawing Impossible Breakfast Sausage Patties

Impossible’s convenient pre-made breakfast sausage patties defrost well using these methods. Since they are thicker than links, allow extra time in the refrigerator or water bath as needed. Check for any remaining frozen sections and continue microwaving in 30-second bursts until fully thawed.

Safely Thawing Impossible Sausage

To safely thaw Impossible sausage:

• Only use the refrigerator, cold water, or microwave to thaw.
• Cook thawed sausage within 1-2 days.
• Avoid leaving sausage above 40°F for over 2 hours.
• Cook thoroughly to 165°F internal temperature.
• When in doubt, throw it out! Don’t risk spoiled meat.

Proper storage after thawing is also important. Cooked sausage keeps 3-4 days refrigerated. Thawed uncooked sausage can be safely refrozen.

Cooking Defrosted Impossible Sausage to Perfection

Once thawed, Impossible sausage shines in all sorts of recipes. Try these cooking methods:

• Pan-fried: Cook over medium heat with a bit of oil to brown the sausage.

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

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

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

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

Impossible sausage works great in tacos, pasta, pizza, sandwiches, breakfasts, apps, and more. Always cook to 165°F internal temperature.

Enjoy Revolutionary Plant-Based Sausage

With Impossible Foods’ ingenious sausage made from plants and these handy defrosting tips, you can enjoy deliciously meaty sausage any night. Defrost links, patties, and more using the fridge, cold water, or microwave based on your timeline. In no time, you’ll be biting into juicy, savory Impossible sausage.