Put Safety First When Preparing Holiday Turkey

Put Safety First When Preparing Holiday Turkey

To make sure every bite of your holiday turkey is as safe to eat as it is delicious. Choosing a fresh or frozen turkey is based on personal preference. For both fresh and frozen turkey, allow one pound per person. If the turkey is fresh, buy it only one to two days before you plan to cook it. The turkey should be stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to place it in the oven.

Plan for sufficient time to thaw a frozen turkey. In the refrigerator (40 degrees or below) allow approximately 24 hours for every four to five pounds. Keep the turkey in the original wrapper while thawing. Place on a tray or in a pan to catch any juices that may leak. A thawed turkey can remain in the refrigerator for one to two days.
In addition to thawing in the refrigerator, a turkey can be thawed in a sink of ice water Wrap the turkey securely, making sure the water does not leak through the wrapping. Change the water every 30 minutes. Cook the turkey immediately after it has been thawed.
A turkey can also be thawed in the microwave. Check your owner’s manual for the size turkey that will fit into your microwave oven, the minutes per pound, and power level to use for thawing. ‘Remove all outside wrapping. Place turkey on a microwave –safe dish to catch any juices that may leak. Cook the turkey immediately once it is thawed.