Freezing Thuringian Mett: Step-by-Step Guide

Thuringia has a lot to offer. Besides cultural treasures like the Wartburg or the Kyffhäuser Monument and unique landscapes in the Thuringian Forest, the central German state is particularly convincing from a culinary perspective. The Thuringian Cuisine is appreciated nationwide for its tasty specialties. Thuringian Rostbratwurst and Thuringian Dumplings are known throughout the country. A bit less popular, but even more delicious, is Thuringian Mett. Given its outstanding flavor, it's worth ordering the Mett in bulk. Learn in this article how you can freeze Thuringian Mett and enjoy it for a long time.

Thuringian Mett Has a Long History

There are numerous rumors about the origin of Mett. It was first mentioned in writing in 1801 in the “Berlinisches Frauenzimmer-Lexicon” as the “pure, fat-free meat”.

However, it had little in common with what is today known as Thuringian Mett. Rather, the Mett was processed into other meat products such as Mettwurst. It took until the beginning of the 20th century before Mett was no longer exclusively processed into sausage but was among other things suitable for raw consumption as a spread under the name Thuringian Mett.

Thuringian Mett: More Than Just Ground Meat

Hackepeter, Mett, Gehacktes, Ground Meat, and Thuringian Mett. These terms often cause confusion. They are often used synonymously, which is incorrect. Thuringian Mett, compared to ground meat or Mett, has some specific characteristics.

By definition, ground meat is chopped and de-fatted muscle meat, which as a sole ingredient can contain up to 1% salt. Mett additionally contains spices. These are usually onions, pepper, and garlic. Thuringian Mett also includes caraway seeds.

How Long Does Thuringian Mett Keep?

One reason for the outstanding flavor of Thuringian Mett is its freshness, as the raw meat is processed immediately after slaughter. Due to the lack of preservatives, however, it is only of limited shelf life. Fresh Thuringian Mett should be consumed or prepared within 1 to 2 days after purchase. Otherwise, the risk of bacterial contamination increases. Possible consequence: gastrointestinal infections.

By the way, refrigeration does not prevent bacterial growth. It only slows it down. Thuringian Mett, packaged in a protective atmosphere, can be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 2-4 °C for a few days.

Attention: If the Mett looks spoiled, smells bad, or feels unusual, you should definitely not eat it.

For long-term enjoyment, it's advisable to freeze Thuringian Mett.

Can You Freeze Thuringian Mett?

Taking into account a few important points, it is perfectly possible to freeze Thuringian Mett and consume it weeks later. At a freezing temperature of -18°C, the Mett will keep for up to three months.

When freezing Thuringian Mett, take care to maintain hygiene and cleanliness. Because of its large surface area and raw state, Mett is an ideal breeding ground for microorganisms. Prevent food infections by using only clean utensils and surfaces when handling the raw meat.

Freezing Thuringian Mett – How It Works:

Remove the Thuringian Mett from its packaging and portion it as desired. A rough guide is 250g of Mett per portion.
Place the meat in a freezer bag.
Press the Mett flat, or roll it out with a suitable kitchen tool like a rolling pin. This will save valuable space in the freezer later.
Be especially careful when sealing the freezer bag. There should be as little air as possible inside. This will not only make the Thuringian Mett thaw faster but also prevent freezer burn.
Label the package with the freezing date. This way, you will know how long the Mett has been frozen and can better assess its quality.
Place the meat at -18°C in the freezer.

Thawing Thuringian Mett

Before the frozen Thuringian Mett can be ready to eat on your plate, you need to thaw it. The best way to do this is to remove the Mett from the freezer the day before, place it on a plate, and put it in the refrigerator. The fridge provides the perfect environment, just above freezing, to thaw the Thuringian Mett gently, preserving the unique flavor of this Central German meat product.

Important: It is also possible to thaw Thuringian Mett at room temperature. However, due to the higher ambient temperature, there is a risk of rapid bacterial growth. The microwave is also not ideal, as the Mett does not heat evenly.

Can You Eat Frozen Thuringian Mett Raw?

Regardless of the method, thawing frozen Thuringian Mett will inevitably develop bacteria. Therefore, you should avoid eating thawed Mett raw. Instead, heat it to at least 70°C. This is the only way to reliably kill any pathogens. Why not try making delicious meatballs or a ground meat stew from Thuringian Mett? There are many possibilities for tasty Mett dishes.