Preparing the Perfect TurkeyExperts at the Butterball Turkey Talk-Line are just in time for the holidays this year to assist all cooks with their turkey-related needs. Last season, the Talk-Line responded to more than 200,000 inquiries. Here are some of the most asked question for preparing a turkey for the oven. WHAT'S THE BEST WAY TO THAW A TURKEY? Refrigerator thawing is recommended. However, if short on time, submerge the turkey in cold water. Thawing turkey at room temperature allows bacterial growth and is not recommended.
Refrigerator Thawing:
Cold Water Thawing: HOW DO YOU RECOMMEND HANDLING A TURKEY SO IT'S SAFE TO EAT?
WHERE DOES THE MEAT THERMOMETER GO? The tip of any meat thermometer should be placed in the thigh muscle just above and beyond the lower part of the thigh bone, but not touching the bone, and pointing toward the body. If using an oven-safe meat thermometer, insert the thermometer prior to placing the turkey in the oven and leave in while the turkey is roasting. Turn the thermometer so it can be read while the turkey is in the oven. If using an instant-read meat thermometer, do not leave the thermometer in the turkey during roasting. WHAT'S THE PROPER WAY TO STUFF A TURKEY? Generations of Americans have been enjoying turkeys. Whether you choose to stuff your turkey or cook stuffing in a casserole dish is a matter of personal preference. As with any preparation involving raw food ingredients, it's important to carefully follow proper food safety and handling procedures to ensure a safe turkey every time. For consumers who choose to stuff their turkey, we recommend the following four guidelines. Prepare stuffing just before placing in turkey. Use only cooked ingredients in stuffing -- saute vegetables, use only cooked meats and seafood (oysters) and use pasteurized egg products instead of raw eggs. Place prepared stuffing in turkey just before roasting. Do not stuff the turkey the night before roasting. Stuff both neck and body cavities of completely thawed turkey, allowing 1/2 to 3/4 cup of stuffing per pound of turkey. Do not pack stuffing tightly in turkey. When the turkey is cooked on an outdoor grill, water smoker or by fast cook methods where the turkey typically gets done faster than the stuffing, it is recommended that the turkey not be stuffed. HOW DO I PREPARE THE TURKEY BEFORE ROASTING IT?
SHOULD I BUY A FRESH OR FROZEN TURKEY? Selecting a fresh or frozen turkey is your choice. Fresh turkeys need no thawing and are ready to cook. Frozen turkeys can be purchased months in advance, but plan enough thawing time before roasting. If you have any questions about preparing your Thanksgiving turkey, call the Turkey Talk-Line at 800-323-4848. Courtesy of Article Resource Association
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