With all the preparation that goes into a Thanksgiving meal, it’s easy to forget about the most important thing: the turkey. Having an overcooked or dry turkey can put a damper on your entire Thanksgiving. Luckily, we’ve got just the right 5 tips to make sure the centerpiece of your meal is cooked to perfection.
1. Use a Fresh Turkey Instead of Frozen
Preparing the perfect turkey starts before you even get in the kitchen. When buying a turkey, it’s important to choose fresh over frozen. The ice that forms on a frozen turkey can damage the turkey’s muscles, which can cause fluids to leak quickly, and ultimately dry out the meat. By choosing a fresh turkey, the meat will cook at a steady and more even rate, making it a hit for all your friends and family.
2. Brine the Turkey
The second key to preventing dry turkey on the big day is to brine it. Brines are salty solutions that help lean meats hold their moisture, so they stay juicy and tender during grilling. Be sure to follow our Sage and Thyme Dry Brined Turkey recipe to guide you through this process, and get a delicious and well-seasoned turkey.
3. Use the Indirect Grilling Method
When cooking thick cuts of meat on your grill, it’s also important to utilize the indirect cooking method. By grilling your turkey this way, you don’t risk any one area being overcooked. Follow the steps in this video to learn more on how to cook with indirect heat.
4. Use a Meat Thermometer
To make sure your turkey is ready, use a meat thermometer to check its temperature. Be sure to follow our grilling temperature guide.
5. Let the Turkey Rest Before Carving
Finally, let the turkey rest before carving. Transfer the turkey to carving board and tent with foil for 20-30 minutes before slicing.