Defrosting Fish and Seafood in the Microwave:
The
best way to thaw out seafood is to put it in the refrigerator
overnight. If you must use a microwave, here are general times
for defrosting mode.
Since microwaves vary in size
and power output, check with your microwave manual first for specific
instructions or times, or recommendations.
Note:
For defrosting fish and seafood, arrange and separate if possible.
Microwave for half the time, then stir or break apart and separate,
and if applicable, turn over. Continue to defrost. Try the minimum
times first. This defrosting method
should be used only if you plan to cook the fish or seafood product
immediately after thawing.
| Item |
Setting |
Time |
| Fish,
fillets |
Defrost
mode |
4
to 8 mins./lb. |
| Fish,
steaks |
|
3
to 7 mins./lb. |
| Fish,
small whole |
|
3
1/2 to 7 mins./lb. |
| Scallops |
|
4
to 6 1/2 mins./lb. |
| Shrimp |
|
4
to 8 mins./lb. |
| Crab
legs, 1 to 2, (8 to 10 oz.) |
|
5
to 7 mins./lb. |
| Whole
lobster or crab |
|
8
to 12 mins./lb |
| Oysters,
a 12-oz. canister |
|
7
to 10 mins. |
Remember
these are only guidelines or basic information. Contact your local
extension service for more detailed information or the latest
recommendations, or a seafood governmental agency.
Wanting
more information on the web about the above topic? Check out these
online resources for thawing safety:
For
information on safely thawing out products from the U.S. Department
of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service:
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Fact_Sheets/Big_Thaw/index.asp
