Yes, you can use a meat mallet. But don’t beat it into a pancake. Gentle, even taps break down the fibers without destroying the shape.
If you don’t have a mallet, use a rolling pin or even the bottom of a heavy skillet. Put the meat in a plastic bag first to avoid a mess. And don’t laugh—I’ve used a wine bottle before. It works.
8 simple tips to make meat softer
The key is to flatten it to an even thickness. That ensures it cooks evenly, so you don’t end up with a tough, overdone edge and a raw center.
