The Correct Way to Carve a Turkey

Carving a turkey can seem like an intimidating task but it doesn’t have to be. With some simple techniques and the right tools you can carve your turkey like a pro this holiday season. In this article, we’ll walk through the steps for properly carving a whole roasted turkey.

Setting Up Your Carving Station

Before getting started, you’ll want to set up your carving station This includes

• A large cutting board – You’ll need plenty of room to work, so use the biggest board you have.

• A sharp carving knife – A thin, long, sharp knife is best for precision cutting.

• A carving fork – The fork helps to steady the turkey as you slice.

• A platter – To collect the carved meat.

• Paper towels – For wiping down messes.

Once your tools are assembled, place the whole cooked turkey on the cutting board. Make sure it is breast side up. Let the turkey rest for 15-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute through the meat.

Removing the Leg and Thigh

Start by removing the leg and thigh together in one piece. Here’s how:

• Pull the leg away from the body.

• Cut through the skin between the body and thigh.

• Continue cutting, angling the knife in towards the bone.

• When you hit the joint, bend the leg back until the joint pops and becomes visible.

• Cut through the joint to fully detach the leg and thigh.

• Repeat on the other leg.

Removing the Breast Meat

Next, remove the breast meat from the bone:

• Make a long, deep horizontal cut along one side of the breastbone.

• Follow the curve of the bone, pulling the meat slice away as you cut.

• Make as few slices as possible to keep the breast meat intact.

• Repeat on the other side of the breastbone to remove the whole breast.

Removing the Wings

The wings can be removed next:

• Pull each wing back until the joint pops.

• Cut through the wing joint.

• Transfer wings to your platter.

Slicing the White and Dark Meat

Once removed from the carcass, the meat can be sliced:

• Place each breast half skin-side up and slice across into even cuts.

• Separate the thigh from the drumstick.

• Remove thigh bone and slice the thigh meat.

• Leave drumsticks whole.

• Transfer all sliced meat to your platter for serving.

Discarding the Carcass

Once all the meat is carved, set aside the picked-over carcass. You have a couple options:

• Save it to make homemade turkey broth.

• Discard it if you have no use for it. Wrap in plastic and throw away.

Finally, give your cutting board a good wipe down and you’re ready to serve!

Carving Tips and Tricks

Follow these tips for neat, professional results:

• Let the turkey rest before carving. This prevents dry meat and messy juices.

• Use a sharp knife for clean slices. Sharpen your knife beforehand if needed.

• Cut the meat away from the bone in a single piece for presentation.

• Make smooth, long slicing motions rather than short, jagged sawing motions.

• Slice the breast meat on a slight diagonal for wider cuts.

• Keep sliced meat together on the platter so it stays warm.

• Cover the carved turkey loosely with foil if it will sit more than a few minutes.

• Consider garnishing the platter with fresh herbs, greenery or citrus slices.

Carving FAQs

Still have some questions about getting the perfect holiday bird on your table? Here are some common carving queries:

Should I carve the turkey at the table?

For ideal texture and temperature, it’s best to carve the turkey in the kitchen. Carving at the table risks the meat cooling too quickly and makes for a less attractive presentation.

What’s the best turkey temperature for carving?

Let the cooked turkey rest 15-30 minutes until the temperature drops to about 145°F. If turkey is above 150°F it may be too hot to handle safely.

Can I carve a turkey a day ahead?

It’s best to wait until right before serving to carve. Cooked turkey keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Slice just before heating and serving.

What’s the easiest way to carve a turkey?

Removing the legs and breasts first in whole pieces makes carving much simpler. This allows you to slice the meat nicely on a cutting board, rather than awkwardly across a whole bird.

How long does it take to carve a turkey?

Plan on about 15-20 minutes for an average 12-15 lb turkey. Allow more time if working slowly or carving for a crowd.

Carving the holiday turkey may seem intimidating, but have no fear! Just take it slow, use the right tools, and follow these steps for perfectly sliced turkey everyone will enjoy. Let your guests see your carving skills on full display this year!