Specialty Thermometers

The most common type of specialty thermometer is called a “bi-therm.” These units can measure the temperature of both cold and hot foods. The temperature range does vary, so be sure to double check this. For an example, some units only read between 25 and 125 degrees, so they can be used to check the temperature of refrigerated foods, but not much else, because they do not read high enough to check cooked foods.

Models that lack a stem or hanging hook and look a lot like a compass are used to measure the surface temperature of a grill or griddle. Simply place the unit on the cooking surface and wait for the temperature to rise. Some models even have a red line to indicate that the appropriate temperature has been achieved. Remember, the thermometer will heat up so be sure to use hand protection when taking it off of the cooking surface. One way to avoid potential burnt fingers is to use an infrared thermometer. With these units all you have to do is point and push a button, and the digital readout tells you how hot or cold something is.