Turkey Tips
Frozen Birds
• Defrost in refrigerator 72 - 48 hours in advance. Size is the big determining factor. The bigger the bird, the more the time.
• Night before - Wash, trim and leave overnight, under loose foil, in refrigerator
• 1 hour before baking set on counter to bring up temp before baking
Fresh Bird
• Night before - Wash, trim and leave overnight, under loose foil, in refrigerator
• 1 hour before baking set on counter to bring up temp before baking
Brining your Bird
Very good option for Free range or heritage birds. It's a must if you plan to grill your bird.
• Mix brine according to instructions. Make sure your vessel is large enough to completely submerge your bird.
• 12 - 24 hours in the brine
• Night before - Wash, trim and leave overnight, under loose foil, in refrigerator
• 1 hour before baking set on counter to bring up temp before baking
Quick reminders
Roast at 350 degrees F
15 minutes per pound as a planning guideline. Heritage and free range cook faster.
Cook until deepest part of thigh registers 165 degrees and juices run clear.
If the breast is turning too brown, cover with foil, check oven temp.
Baste with butter every 30 minutes.
The instant read thermometer is your friend. When in doubt, check the temp.