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Step 1
Check the turkey when you buy it. Make sure the sodium count is not over 400 mg. To make the turkey more tender, companies inject ingredients into the turkey. While it may add flavor to the turkey, it may raise the sodium level to levels well above the recommended limits.
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Step 2
Defrost the turkey safely. Do not set it on the counter and allow it to defrost at room temperature as this encourages bacteria growth. Put the turkey in the refrigerator, allowing twenty-four hours for every five pounds of turkey. You can also defrost it in ice water or in the microwave oven. Cook the turkey immediately after you thaw it if you use the microwave oven.
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Step 3
Use a meat thermometer when you cook the turkey. To be certain the turkey is well-done, the inside temperature should be 165 degrees.
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Step 4
Do not place stuffing directly inside the turkey before you are ready to cook the turkey. Don't over-stuff. It needs room to expand.
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Step 5
Keep it in the oven at 200 degrees until the rest of the meal is ready if the turkey is finished cooking before mealtime. Do not the let the temperatures drop below 140 degrees.
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Step 6
Put left-overs in the refrigerator soon after the meal is done. They can be kept safely for four to five days.
Thanksgiving is a great time to spend time with family and friends. Follow these steps and keep the turkey dinner safe and the memories fun.
Comments
kluke82 said
on 11/1/2009 This information about cooking a safe turkey is so important! No one wants to get sick on Thanksgiving. 5 stars.
hnatalieann said
on 10/29/2009 Very good info on preparing a turkey! 5*'s
survivoryea said
on 10/26/2009 Really good points for preparing a turkey safely - thanks!
tracysmith159 said
on 10/26/2009 I didn't know about the twenty four hours per five pound to defrost. That's why my turkey is never defrosted correctly. Thanks for sharing.
LilacGirl said
on 10/26/2009 Great turkey preparing safety tips. Very helpful to new cooks, and oldtimers too.