Essential Turkey Thawing Tips for a Perfect Thanksgiving

TL;DR
Defrosting a frozen turkey for Thanksgiving requires careful planning, as it can take several days to thaw safely in the refrigerator. The USDA recommends allowing 24 hours for every 4 to 5 pounds of turkey in a fridge set at 40°F or lower. Faster methods include using a cold water bath, which requires changing the water every 30 minutes, but defrosting at room temperature is unsafe. Avoid using a microwave for large cuts of meat, as it can lead to uneven thawing and potential food safety issues.
Topics:businessfood-and-cooking#cooking-tips#defrosting#food-and-cooking#food-safety#thanksgiving#turkey
- Here's How Long It Takes to Defrost a Frozen Turkey (Spoiler: You Should Start Now) CNET
- Here's how long it takes to safely thaw a frozen turkey WMTW Portland
- The Secret to the Best Turkey Came From a Reader The New York Times
- Turkey tips and tricks just in time for Thanksgiving WBAL TV Baltimore
- How long should I thaw my turkey before Thanksgiving? What you need to know one week out CBS Pittsburgh
Want the full story? Read the original reporting
Read on CNET