<< Mary-Anne, I presume that you mean I should totally encase the 3 lbs of thin-sliced beef in a waterproof jacket, and then soak it in cold water in the sink.... right? >> Yes, You just place meat that is in a zip lock bag or other protective (plastic) covering in a sink with cold water covering it. It is amazing not only is this much safer it defrosts much faster as well. Mary-Anne "It is never too late to be what you might have been" - George Eliot (1819 -1880)