FRESH or FROZEN, According to my Mother, who is 84 years old, and has been making Thanksgiving dinner for more than 60 years, I totally trust her advice. Here is what she says, “some people think there isn’t a difference, but I think there is, Fresh is always better, frozen tends to be dry, they don’t have quit the same flavor.” When it comes to the Thanksgiving turkey, my mother swears by using fresh for better results. She believes that fresh turkey retains more moisture and offers a juicier, more flavorful eating experience compared to its frozen counterpart. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of quality and how fresh ingredients contribute to the overall taste and satisfaction of the meal. Her insights are always valuable, and I’ve come to appreciate her wisdom and experience in the kitchen. In fact, her knowledge extends beyond just the turkey. She has perfected the art of creating a tantalizing variety of side dishes and desserts that complement the main course. From the creamy mashed potatoes to the rich gravy and the homemade cranberry sauce, every element of the meal is carefully curated to deliver a harmonious and unforgettable dining experience. As a result, our Thanksgiving gatherings have become synonymous with warmth, love, and the delectable aromas that fill the air, creating lasting memories for our family and friends.
Recommendations for defrosting when choosing a frozen turkey.
According to the USDA website, oven cooking bags are recommended for cooking turkey, providing safe and effective results. The cooking times for a 16-20 lb. turkey range from 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours.
1.) REFRIGERATOR method, (recommended) It is advised to thaw in the refrigerator for 24 hours per 5 pounds,
2.) COLD WATER Method, Soak in cold water for 30 minutes per pound,
Fresh Turkey Preparation Ideas
TO STUFF OR NOT TO STUFF!
There has been much debate about whether it is safe to add stuffing to your turkey before roasting. The USDA does not recommend it, so I do not, but many, including my mother, still do. If you do decide to stuff your turkey, note: you must allow more cooking time and ensure the inside of the dressing is at the proper temperature, and check with a thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Mom’s Classic Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe:
My mother always prepared her turkey with stuffing in the turkey, which she carefully seasoned with a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. This practice was a cherished tradition in our family, and the tantalizing aroma of the roasting turkey would fill the entire house, signaling the start of joyful gatherings and festive celebrations. While some may debate the merits of cooking the stuffing inside the turkey, for us, it was an essential part of the culinary ritual, infusing the meat with rich flavors and adding to the sense of conviviality around the dinner table. The juicy, flavorful result was always worth the extra effort, and the delicious leftovers ensured that the indulgence extended beyond the day of the feast.
1.) Dried bread or bagged dried bread. My mother always dried her own bread for the stuffing by simply setting the bread out for a couple of days to allow it to dry, and then cutting it into cubes. However, now you can simply buy a bag of either seasoned or unseasoned bread at most grocery stores.
2.) Pork sausage. This one threw me off, but it does make the dressing tasty.
3.) Sage seasoning has long been a staple ingredient in classic Thanksgiving dressing recipes, imparting a distinctive earthy flavor and aroma to the dish. Its use in this beloved holiday dish has deep cultural roots, with sage seasoning and Thanksgiving dressing forming a timeless culinary partnership. The unique and fragrant qualities of sage have made it a go-to herb for enhancing the savory profile of dressing, creating a harmonious marriage of flavors that has stood the test of time.
4,) Salt and Pepper, to taste of course
5.) Chicken Broth, When selecting the chicken broth for your stuffing, you have the option to use either canned or boxed chicken broth. The rich and savory flavors of the chicken broth will impart a delicious depth to the stuffing, bringing it to life with its warm, comforting essence. Whether you choose a low-sodium or regular version, the chicken broth provides a delicious foundation for your stuffing, infusing it with a delightful savory taste that complements the other ingredients. Additionally, the warmth of the chicken broth adds a comforting aroma to the dish, enhancing the overall sensory experience of enjoying your perfectly seasoned and moistened stuffing.
Cooking sausage is a versatile activity that can be carried out in various ways to achieve the desired outcome. For instance, you can choose to cook the sausage in a traditional frying pan, on the grill, or even in the oven, depending on what is most convenient for you at the time. Once the sausage is fully cooked, it’s time to move on to the next step. In a large bowl, you can not only combine the dried bread or bagged, cooked sausage with sage, salt, and pepper, but also experiment with adding other complementary ingredients such as diced apples, cranberries, or even nuts to enhance the flavor profile of the stuffing. After mixing these ingredients thoroughly, the next crucial component is to add the liquid element. Rather than just simple chicken broth from a box or can, consider making your own flavorful broth from scratch using the leftover turkey neck and giblets, enhancing the authenticity and richness of the stuffing. Finally, after ensuring that the mixture is adequately moist, you can choose to proceed with stuffing your turkey, or if you’re preparing in advance, store the stuffing in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before use, allowing the flavors to meld together and intensify.
My Mother always said 25 minutes per pound, (stuffed turkey) and 20 minutes a pound, (unstuffed turkey) I was never good at math so, too much math for me.
Cooking Times for a Stuffed Turkey (oven roasted)
- 8 – 12 pound turkey 3 – 3 1/2 hours
- 12 – 14 pound turkey 3 1/2 – 4 hours
- 14 – 18 pound turkey 4 – 4 1/2 hours
- 18 – 20 pound turkey 4 1/2 – 5 hours
- 20 – 24 pound turkey 5 – 5 1/2 hours
Cooking Times for a UnStuffed Turkey (oven roasted)
- 8 – 12 pound turkey – 2 1/2 – 3 hours
- 12 – 14 pound turkey – 3 – 3 1/2 hours
- 14 – 18 pound turkey 3 1/2 – 4 hours
- 18 – 20 pound turkey 4 – 4 1/2 hours
- 20 – 24 pound turkey 4 1/2 – 5 hours
Cooking Times for a bagged Turkey (oven roasted)
- 8 – 12 pound turkey – 1 1/2 – 2 hours
- 12 – 16 pound turkey – 2 – 2 1/2 hours
- 16 – 20 pound turkey 2 1/2 – 3 hours
- 20 – 24 pound turkey 3 – 3 1/2 hours
The USDA’s Turkey Hotline is an invaluable resource for all your Thanksgiving meal queries. Whether you need advice on thawing, roasting, or storing your turkey, the hotline at 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) is ready to assist you. Additionally, their website offers a treasure trove of Food Safety tips to ensure a healthy and enjoyable Thanksgiving feast. From proper temperature guidelines to handling leftovers, the USDA’s website is packed with valuable information to help you prepare a delicious and safe holiday meal. For even more insights, they provide articles, infographics, and videos to guide you through every step of the process. Click here for USDA website
HAPPY TURKEY DAY
Whichever method you use, your Thanksgiving Day will be memorable as long as it is spent with treasured family and friends. Whether it’s gathering around a bountiful feast filled with the traditional turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce, or embarking on a new adventure or tradition, the warmth of love and togetherness is what truly makes this holiday special. Sharing stories, laughter, and heartfelt moments with those who hold a special place in your heart creates cherished memories that will be fondly remembered for years to come.
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