Figuring Out What Affects Turkey Cooking Time
If you have to make turkey just once a year and Thanksgiving is the only time you end up being in charge for that big bird, learning about turkey cooking time is very important. This is because regardless of the spices you marinate it in or the stuffing you prepare, if the turkey cooking time is not right, no one will want to eat an undercooked, raw turkey ( and it is dangerous to eat poultry that is not completely cooked unlike steaks), no one will be appealed by a burnt, overcooked turkey either.
Many turkey sellers like Butterball and other even have toll-free help lines for turkey cooking time and other tips during the Thanksgiving and winter holidays. You can call them up and give them the details and they can guide you through it. Or you could swallow your pride and ask your mother, grandmother or even your mother-in-law as to what a good turkey cooking time would be for your family's feast. However, when you go any of these routes, there are a few factors you will need to know before any expert can answer your question on turkey cooking time.
Size
The most important factor in turkey cooking time is the size of the turkey itself. The general rule of thumb is that if your turkey is between 10 and 20 pounds, 4 to 5 hours roasting time is enough. The best way to now that the bird hasn't been dried out is to use a thermometer and see if the turkey has reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees. If the turkey weighs between 22 and 29 pounds, then 5 to 6 hours is enough using the same temperature guidelines as explained above.
Defrosted
Another factor is whether the bird is frozen or fresh and if it is frozen then how many hours has it been defrosted and that too using what method. Has it been thawed in the refrigerator, on the countertop or in the microwave?
Cooking Style
You will also have to decide how you are cooking your turkey to decide the time it needs to be cooked for. Are you roasting it? If so, what kind of pan are you using? Are you deep frying it? Are you suing a tofu turkey instead? If so, your turkey cooking time will vary dramatically
Time of Event
Are you serving your turkey to a dozen families at 7pm or is it just an intimate affair for two? All these factors will affect the turkey cooking time, so keep them in mind when planning the big meal. Good Luck!
