Turkey Day is fast approaching so if you don’t know how to properly cook a turkey, don’t worry – you’re not alone! We’ve shared the following tips on how to prepare the perfect turkey that will wow your guests.
Thaw Your Turkey
Completely thawing your turkey is one of the most important steps of the entire process. After all, you want the bird to cook evenly. To thaw, either place in the fridge or cold water – never thaw at room temperature!
If thawing in the refrigerator, place turkey breast side up, in an unopened wrapper on a tray in the fridge. Allow at least 24 hours of thawing for every 4 pounds of turkey.
If thawing in cold water, thaw breast side down, in an unopened wrapper, with enough cold water to completely cover your turkey. Change the water every 30 minutes to keep the turkey chilled. Butter Ball advises to estimate a minimum thawing time of 30 minutes per pound.
Remember, give yourself ample time for defrosting. Refrigerator thawing is preferred, but it also requires more time.
Time to Brine!
The brining process enhances the flavor of your turkey and keeps the meat moist and delicious. Brine the bird with your favorite herbs and lots of salt; then secure in a brining bag. Next, place in the fridge for about 24 hours. Once the turkey is ready to cook, toss out the brine and place the bird in the oven.
Use a Meat Thermometer
A turkey is a big bird, so to ensure it is completely cooked, a meat thermometer can help you better gauge the required cooking time. It takes about 15 minutes per pound at 325 degrees to cook the turkey completely through.
Let it Rest
While you probably will want to carve the turkey the minute it comes out of the oven, resist the urge! The turkey needs time to rest so that the juice in the meat can redistribute evenly. We recommend letting the turkey rest for about 30 minutes.
After giving it enough time to rest, it’s time to enjoy that delicious bird! Happy cooking from all of us at Lajollacooks4u!
