Sous Vide How to Use Sous Vide (Beginner's Guide): Temperature & Time Guide
Sous vide looks technical, but it's the simplest way to cook well: fill a pot, set a temperature, seal food in a bag, and walk away. Here's the full walkthrough.
Our top pick
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
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Quick comparison
| Pick | Why we like it | |
|---|---|---|
| Anova Precision Cooker 3.0 | A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking. | View → |
| Instant-read meat thermometer | Use one to verify your water bath and spot-check the finish — a $15 probe removes all guesswork. | View → |
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
Editor’s PickA circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
- + On-device temperature control
- + 1100W heats fast
- + Recipe library for temps
- − Premium price
- − Some app features paywalled
Free shipping on eligible items
Use one to verify your water bath and spot-check the finish — a $15 probe removes all guesswork.
- + Verifies actual temperature
- + Cheap insurance
- − Not needed if your circulator is accurate
Free shipping on eligible items
Buying advice
1) Fill a pot or tub with water past the circulator's minimum line. 2) Set the temperature (131°F for medium-rare steak). 3) Season the food, seal it in a bag (vacuum or water-displacement). 4) Submerge and start the cook. 5) When done, pat dry and sear in a hot pan for 45-60 seconds per side. 6) Rest 5 minutes, slice, serve.
FAQ
How long does sous vide take?
Active time is minutes; the bath does the rest. Steaks take 1-4 hours; chicken 1-2; short ribs 24-72.
Do I need special equipment?
A circulator, a pot, and food-safe bags. That's the whole kit.
What temperature do I start with?
131°F for medium-rare steak — the most forgiving first cook.
Ready to cook perfectly?
Our top pick for this guide — check today’s price and clip any on-page coupon on Amazon:
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Want exact temps and times? Use our free sous vide calculators.