Food Cooking Tips & Techniques 4 New Uses for a Meat Thermometer Put this underrated kitchen tool to work with smart double-duty ideas. By Chris Morocco Chris Morocco Chris is a senior food editor and test kitchen director at Bon Appétit with over 10 years of experience in the food industry. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines Updated on June 10, 2022 Share Tweet Pin Email Look for a waterproof model with a large, easy-to-read display. RSpick: Taylor waterproof digital thermometer model 9847, amazon.com. Photo: Christopher Baker It tells the difference between medium-rare and well-done, but this trusty gadget can do so much more. Here are four ways to put a meat thermometer to work. Check the water temperature for poached eggs. (It should be 180° F for intact but runny yolks.)Check homemade bread for doneness (190° to 200° F).Reach the right temperature for an ice cream base. (The custard should register 175° to 180° F for 1 minute to cook the eggs without scrambling.)Measure your refrigerator's temperature. (Put the thermometer into any liquid, like milk; 32° to 40° F is a safe range.) See more new uses for kitchen items. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit