Käsisulatus

Käsisulatus is a Finnish term that translates to "hand thawing" or "manual thawing." It refers to the process of defrosting frozen food using only the warmth of one's hands. This method is typically applied to smaller food items that have been frozen solid, such as individual portions of soup, sauce, or small pieces of meat or vegetables.

The process involves holding the frozen food item, often in its packaging or a sealed bag, in the palms of the hands and applying gentle pressure and movement. The body heat from the hands is transferred to the food, gradually causing it to thaw. Käsisulatus is a slow and less efficient method compared to other thawing techniques like refrigeration or microwave thawing. It is generally suitable for items that are needed relatively quickly and are small enough to be held comfortably.

Due to the low temperature of the hands and the limited surface area of contact, käsisulatus can take a considerable amount of time, depending on the size and density of the frozen item. It is important to ensure that the food is not left at room temperature for extended periods during this process to prevent bacterial growth. While a practical method for very small items in a pinch, it is not recommended for larger or bulkier foods. The effectiveness of käsisulatus is also influenced by ambient temperature and individual hand warmth.