The duration required for water bath cooking of frozen bovine muscle greatly depends on factors such as thickness and desired internal temperature. The process involves submerging a vacuum-sealed, frozen cut of beef in a temperature-controlled water environment for an extended period to achieve consistent doneness throughout. For example, a one-inch thick frozen sirloin may require approximately twice the cooking time of a thawed counterpart to reach a medium-rare internal temperature.
This method offers advantages, including enhanced precision in temperature control, minimizing the risk of overcooking, and promoting uniform cooking. Historically, precise temperature control in food preparation was challenging; water bath cooking provides a means to achieve results consistently. Furthermore, the ability to cook directly from a frozen state provides logistical benefits in meal preparation, reducing the need for pre-planning and thawing time.