How long do you need to cook mince?

Mince is a family favourite - whether it's in bolognese, on toast or in a pie. So how long do you need to cook it for? Food magazine editor Sophie Gray answers this commonly asked question.

How long do you need to cook mince for to ensure it is safe to eat? Bolognese recipes seem to require a long simmer, but is that for taste or safety?

Some cuts of beef can be eaten raw – as in steak tartare or carpaccio – so it’s not specifically related to food safety. Cooking times will vary depending on the recipe, but with a bolognese, a longer cooking time is most likely to allow the development of deep, complex flavours.

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