Come Thanksgiving or Christmas, a frozen turkey is a staple for many families. However, forgetting to transfer the turkey from the freezer to the fridge ahead of time is also a holiday tradition. If you find yourself short on time, don’t stress. With the right techniques, you can thaw your turkey quickly and safely in time for the big feast.
Overview of Thawing Methods
When thawing a turkey, food safety is key. Improper thawing can lead to bacterial growth. Here are 6 fast, safe turkey thawing methods recommended by the USDA:
- Cold Water – Submerge turkey in cold water, changing water every 30 minutes. Approx. 30 mins per lb.
- Running Water – Run a steady stream of cold water over the turkey. Time varies.
- Microwave – Use the defrost setting in short bursts to thaw. Up to 6 mins per lb.
- Commercial Thawing Tray – Thaws turkey in 24-48 hours. Flip halfway through.
- Food-Safe Plastic Bag Thaw – Submerge bagged turkey in cold water. Change water every 30 mins.
- Cook Frozen – Cook from frozen, adding 50% more cook time. Not ideal, but works.
Thawing in warm water or at room temperature risks bacterial growth. Cold water and the microwave are the fastest methods when time is limited.
Thawing in Cold Water (Fast)
The cold water method can thaw a turkey rather quickly at about 30 minutes per pound. Here’s how
- Place the turkey, still in packaging, into a container or sink large enough to hold it.
- Cover with cold tap water, 40°F or below. Add ice as needed to maintain cold temperature.
- After 30 minutes, drain and replace the water completely to prevent bacteria.
- Repeat process, replacing water every 30 minutes, until turkey is thawed. Check thickness of breast and thighs.
- Cook immediately after thawing is complete. Do not refreeze.
The key is keeping the water cold using ice to prevent bacteria growth. Change the water frequently even if sealed to be safe.
Thawing Under Running Water (Faster)
For even quicker thawing, use a steady stream of cold water:
- Place turkey in a clean sink or tub. A container isn’t necessary.
- Run cold water, 40°F or below, over the top of the turkey.
- Rotate or flip the turkey frequently to expose all sides to the running water.
- Check thickness of breast and thighs periodically until thawed.
- Once thawed, cook immediately. Do not refreeze.
The constant flow of fresh water speeds up the thawing process Time will vary based on turkey size and water pressure
Thawing in the Microwave (Fastest)
A microwave can thaw a turkey rather quickly but there are precautions to take
- Remove all wrapping and place turkey directly on microwave-safe dish.
- Set the microwave to defrost mode at the lowest power setting.
- Microwave in short 2-3 minute bursts, allowing time between for heat distribution.
- Rotate and flip the turkey to promote even thawing.
- Check every few minutes. Meat should be soft but still icy in center when done.
- Cook immediately – do not refreeze or leave at room temp after thawing.
Microwaving can start cooking the outer edges of the turkey, so frequent checks and breaks are key. Allow 6 minutes defrost time per pound.
Other Quick Turkey Thawing Methods
Here are a few more fast, safe ways to thaw your turkey:
- Commercial Thawing Tray – Special trays thaw turkey in the fridge in 24-48 hours. Flip turkey halfway through.
- Food-Safe Plastic Bag – Submerge bagged turkey in cold tap water. Change water every 30 mins.
- Cook Frozen – Place frozen turkey directly in oven. Add 50% more cook time. Works in a pinch!
- Salt Brine Thaw – Submerge turkey in cool salt water. Helps flavor, tenderize, and thaw turkey quickly.
- Running Dishwasher – Place turkey in dishwasher with no soap or detergent. Use cold rinse only setting.
Safety Tips for Thawing Turkeys
When thawing a turkey in a hurry, keep these safety guidelines in mind:
- Avoid room temperature thawing which can breed bacteria. Stick to cold water, microwave, or fridge methods.
- Cook immediately after thawing. Do not allow turkey to sit out after thawing.
- Never thaw at warm temperatures above 40°F. This puts turkey in the danger zone for bacteria.
- Use thawed turkey within 1-2 days. Do not refreeze a thawed turkey.
- Wash hands, utensils, sinks, and surfaces touched by raw turkey to avoid cross-contamination.
- Do not purchase fresh pre-stuffed turkeys. Only thaw and stuff turkeys yourself.
Thawed quickly and handled safely, your turkey will cook up deliciously just in time for the big holiday meal.
Three foolproof defrosting methods
It’s Thanksgiving morning. You already made dessert and a few sides. but the bird is still frozen solid. First, relax: There’s no need to run around like a chicken turkey with its head cut off. According to the USDA, each 4 to 5 pounds of turkey should be thawed in the fridge for 24 hours. But you were so busy getting ready for the holidays that you forgot to start on time. I understand. That’s why I put together a list of foolproof ways to thaw a turkey quickly and save the feast, even the morning of. And to keep your guests busy while you work on the main course, you might want to serve some fancy appetizers or simple Thanksgiving apps to start the meal off right. And to keep your guests busy while you work on the main course, serve some easy finger foods like stuffed mushrooms or mini quiches to start the meal in style.
Chillout in the meantime with some bubbly prosecco cocktail pairings. Need an alternative Thanksgiving Meal?
But First, Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Thaw a Turkey on the Kitchen Counter
I know it’s tempting, but whatever you do, please don’t plop the bird on the counter and let it defrost at room temperature. Per the USDA, “A package of frozen meat or poultry left thawing on the counter more than 2 hours is not at a safe temperature.” And definitely ignore Uncle Ron’s advice about leaving it in the basement or garage to defrost—you want a controlled temperature, not food poisoning.
How To Thaw Turkey Fast – Best Way to Defrost Turkey Quickly
FAQ
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