Tool

What tool do professional chefs use to break up ground beef as it cooks in the skillet?

I have always used a wire whip for the task (repeatedly smashing the whip downward). But, of course, that's not what the tool is meant for. So...I'm curious as to what others use (maybe a potato masher), and if there is indeed a tool specifically designed for the task. I like the ground beef to be as finely broken up as possible for such recipes as homemade tacos.

Public Comments

1. I use a spatula.
2. The tool's exact name, I am not sure of. But it looks like a metal snake with a handle. It is VERY VERY similiar to a potatoe masher, only a slight difference in the durability and the material.
3. A spatula or wooden paddle spoon.
4. Use a pastry blender, it works great.
5. A fork...it works the best...
6. I always used a bench scraper. It's normally used in baking, but it worked well for breaking up the ground beef. It's about 4x6, like an index card with a handle on top. It's also good for chopping some veggies.
7. I use a wooden spoon. Or, I crumble the meat by hand after it cools a bit. This works best. I don't like chunky ground beef!