| Most people have a little trepidation when they even think
about cooking a turkey. And because most turkeys get cooked on festive
occasions like Christmas, Thanksgiving and other big family events, we just do
not cook turkeys often enough to know the best turkey tips. And, when we do,
most of the time we have forgotten our favorite tricks by the next time we need
to cook one. Here are some good practical turkey tips to use ... and be sure to
save them for next time! |
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Dark roasting pans cook faster than shiny metals. |
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The depth and size of the pan can reduce heat circulation to
all areas of the bird. Choose a standard roasting pan. |
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The use of a foil tent for the entire time can slow cooking.
Try putting the foil on for the last half hour of cooking. |
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Use of the roasting pan's lid speeds up cooking time but you'll
want to remove it toward the end of the time so the turkey can brown. |
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An oven cooking bag can accelerate cooking time. |
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A stuffed bird takes longer to cook. Stuffing can be made in a
casserole dish and baked in the oven. |
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Calibration of the oven's thermostat may be inaccurate, be sure
to use an internal thermometer. |
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The rack position can have an effect on even cooking and heat
circulation. The middle of the oven is always best. |
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If the pan is too large for the oven, heat circulation can be
blocked and slow down the cooking time. |
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For crisper skin, unwrap the turkey the day before roasting and
leave it uncovered in the refrigerator overnight. |
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