For a very large turkey, like a 20-pounder, which can take ten hours or more to defrost, you would have to change the water every thirty minutes for ten hours. That’s twenty water changes!
Similarly, it is asked,How long does it take a frozen turkey to defrost in the refrigerator?
Thawing in the refrigerator is the ONLY recommended way to defrost a frozen turkey. For it to work, however, you’ll need plenty of time: 24 hours of defrosting time for every 4 to 5 pounds of bird. A large turkey, say, 15 to 20 pounds, will need to spend 4 to 5 days in the refrigerator. Which means you’ll have to plan ahead.
Then,How long does it take to thaw a Turkey in the microwave?
As a general rule, allow 6 minutes per pound when thawing a turkey in the microwave. Be sure to rotate it several times, and even flip it, during the thawing process. If the turkey starts to actually cook instead of just defrost, let it rest for 5 minutes or so before you resume thawing.
Correspondingly,Which is the safest way to thaw a Turkey?
The USDA recommends thawing your turkey in the refrigerator. This is the safest method because the turkey will thaw at a consistent, safe temperature. This method takes some time, so allow one day for each 4 – 5 pounds of weight.
Is it safe to defrost a Turkey in the microwave?
While frozen, a turkey is safe indefinitely. As soon as it begins to thaw, bacteria that may have been present before freezing will begin to grow again. There are three safe ways to defrost a turkey: in the refrigerator, in cold water, and in a microwave oven.
7 Related Question Answers Found
Which is the safest way to thaw a Turkey?
The USDA recommends thawing your turkey in the refrigerator. This is the safest method because the turkey will thaw at a consistent, safe temperature. This method takes some time, so allow one day for each 4 – 5 pounds of weight.
How long does it take for a 16 pound turkey to defrost?
Empty out the water and replace it with fresh cold water. With this method, allow 30 minutes of defrosting time per pound, so a 16 pound turkey will take 8 hours to thaw using this method (so you might need to start around 4 a.m. if you want to eat in the afternoon!).
Can a Turkey be thawed in a hot water bath?
Yes, you probably could. No, you absolutely should not. Like a hot water bath or room-temperature thaw, the outside of the turkey will probably get well above the danger zone long before the inside is thawed. You cannot guarantee the blast of continuous heat will be strong enough to thaw the turkey before bacteria growth begins.
What’s the best way to thaw a frozen turkey?
Cold water thawing of a frozen turkey is a quicker process than in the refrigerator, but takes time. In addition to being in its original packaging, the turkey should be put in a leak-proof plastic bag to prevent cross-contamination and absorption of water. Cold water thawing should be done in the kitchen sink, not in the bath tub.
How long does it take to thaw a Turkey in the microwave?
As a general rule, allow 6 minutes per pound when thawing a turkey in the microwave. Be sure to rotate it several times, and even flip it, during the thawing process. If the turkey starts to actually cook instead of just defrost, let it rest for 5 minutes or so before you resume thawing.
How long does it take for a 16 pound turkey to defrost?
Empty out the water and replace it with fresh cold water. With this method, allow 30 minutes of defrosting time per pound, so a 16 pound turkey will take 8 hours to thaw using this method (so you might need to start around 4 a.m. if you want to eat in the afternoon!).
How long does it take to soak a pound of Turkey?
Frost bites. Next, fill a large bucket (or your sink) with cold tap water. Finally, submerge that sucker (still fully wrapped) in the water and let it sit, changing the water every 30 minutes. According to the USDA, you should allow 30 minutes of soak time for every pound of turkey.