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Turkey Thawing Hints from the National Turkey Federation
Turkeys can be thawed using one of three methods, but the most fool proof is in the refrigerator. The key to this method is to plan ahead and allow approximately 24 hours for every five pounds of bird weight for thawing in the refrigerator. This method is the safest and will result in the best finished product. Place the bird, in the original wrapping, on a shallow baking sheet in the refrigerator. The following chart provides good guidelines for thawing times.
| Refrigerator Turkey Thawing Time (40 degrees F.) |
|
Turkey Weight
|
Days to Allow for Thawing Turkey
|
| 8 to 12 pounds |
1 to 2 days |
| 12 to 16 pounds |
2 to 3 days |
| 16 to 20 pounds |
3 to 4 days |
| 20 to 24 pounds |
4 to 5 days |
If you need to thaw the turkey more quickly, you may thaw the bird in COLD water, in the original wrapping. The cold water must be changed every 30 minutes. Allow approximately 30 minutes per pound using this method.
| COLD Water Turkey Thawing Time |
| Turkey Weight |
Hours to Allow for Thawing Turkey |
| 8 to 12 pounds |
4 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 |
The third safe method for thawing a turkey is in the microwave. Follow the manufacturers directions and roast the turkey immediately after thawing.
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