Holiday Helper: How to Cook the Perfect Turkey
A lot of work goes into Thanksgiving dinner, but there's no doubt that the turkey is the centerpiece of the dinner table. Cooking the Thanksgiving turkey is no small feat. It can feel overwhelming, especially if it's your first year hosting. We're here to help you cook the perfect turkey, leaving your friends and family wondering how you knocked it out of the park.When choosing your turkey, buy about 1.5 pounds of turkey per person. For example, if you're feeding six people, buy at least a ten-pound turkey; that way, you'll have leftovers.
If the turkey is frozen, allow enough time to defrost. Set the turkey on a cookie sheet or pan and allow one day in the fridge for every 4-5 pounds of turkey. Once thawed, don't wash or rinse your turkey; baking will kill any bacteria.
When your turkey thaws, reach inside and remove the giblets. You can place these extra pieces in water and simmer them on the stovetop to add flavor to your gravy. Pat your turkey dry with some paper towels.
In a small bowl, mix ½ cup of olive oil with 2 teaspoons of thyme, 2 teaspoons of rosemary, 2 teaspoons of sage, 2 teaspoons of parsley, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 tablespoon of Kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Rub this mixture all over the bird, under the skin, and inside the cavity.
Pack the mixture tightly if you are stuffing your turkey with traditional stuffing. If you would rather forgo traditional stuffing, place a bundle of thyme, rosemary, sage, a whole peeled garlic bulb, a halved onion, 2-3 celery stocks, and 2-3 carrots into your bird for added flavor.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Place the turkey in a large roasting pan and roast for 10-15 minutes per pound (12 lb. turkey should roast for 3 - 3 ½ hours unstuffed and 3 ¾ - 4 ½ hours stuffed).
The most crucial part of cooking a turkey is the timing. You want moist and juicy meat, not dried out. The key is not to overcook it.
Once the turkey is ready and the juices run clear, it is time to let it rest. Place the turkey on a cutting board inside a cookie pan (this will keep juices from getting all over your counter). Cover the turkey with aluminum foil and rest for at least 20 minutes.
When Thanksgiving is over and everything is cleaned up and put away, it's time to deck the halls with holiday decorating and Christmas music. Stay tuned for our Holiday posts, coming soon. 'Tis the season!
Visit Kuhns Market to find your perfect Thanksgiving turkey and more!