Thawing Your Turkey

By

KLJohn

I will say, as a clarification, that I live in W. Colorado, where the nights are mostly below freezing, therefore my garage stays pretty cold this time of year. That's the reason it's safe here. If you live in warmer climates, using a cooler is not the best way. KLJohn

By Chris (Guest Post)

I have been doing this as well for at least 5 years but without the water. Never had any problems. I also brine my turkey as well -- delicious. Have a great Thanksgiving.

By Guest (Guest Post)

Please go to this US government website regarding safe turkey thawing:

http://www.fsis.usda.gov/FactSheets/Turkey_Basics_Safe_Thawing/index.asp

Here is a portion of the article on that website:

Cold Water Thawing
Allow about 30 minutes per pound.

First be sure the turkey is in a leak-proof plastic bag to prevent cross-contamination and to prevent the turkey from absorbing water, resulting in a watery product.

Submerge the wrapped turkey in cold tap water. Change the water every 30 minutes until the turkey is thawed. Cook the turkey immediately after it is thawed.

Cold Water Thawing Times

* 4 to 12 pounds - 2 to 6 hours
* 12 to 16 pounds - 6 to 8 hours
* 16 to 20 pounds - 8 to 10 hours
* 20 to 24 pounds - 10 to 12 hours

A turkey thawed by the cold water method should be cooked immediately. After cooking, meat from the turkey can be refrozen.
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Another thing to remember is: if you live in a medium to warm climate, this cooler method without refrigeration, is unsafe. Perhaps, some condiments like ketchup, mustard, relish, oil dressings, etc. could be stored in the cold water cooler method and make room for the turkey in the fridge.

Thank you though, very much, KLJohn for your article.

By

Nonna Mar

I tried this last Thanksgiving for the first time & it worked out perfectly. It is a great space saving idea! Great minds think alike! Happy Thanksgiving!