First turkey?

sarahdtobe

I'm thinking about cooking my first turkey this year.  Any turkey tips or funny stories?

kkroll87

I have found that brining turns out the best turkey! Your bird needs to be defrosted (or fresh)) and cleaned of the giblets. Google search for a brine mix recipe that suits your preferences. . You'll soak your bird in your brine mixture overnight. It needs to stay chilled, so keep that in mind. I happen to live in michigan, and it's always cold enough at night in november to brine outside. . I use a clean rubbermaid tote (with the lid). Once you're ready to cook the turkey, take it out and pat it dry. (dump the used brine).season the outside how you like it (go easy on the salt, it's full of saltwater as it is!). I also cover the breast with foil until the last 45 mins-hour of cooking. It helps to keep it moist. Good luck!

sarahdtobe

Thanks for the advice

trigal

1-800-BUTTERBALL is great if you have a problem.  Honestly!

lindseyoliv@gmail.com

I swear by the turkey bag.  It only takes about 3-4 hours (depending on how large your bird it) and it collects all the juices.  Last year I stuffed it with quartered oranges, lemons, celery & onions and it made the BEST gravy with the drippings.  Also, when you use a bag the bird remains REALLY juicy and you don't have to use the silly turkey baster.  (spelling?)

Also - I looked on www.allrecipes.com and loosely followed a turkey carcass recipe for the next day - it was the MOST savory soup I've every tasted.  Basically you boil the carcass after t-giving meal for a couple of hours.  Add the gravy, left over corn/potatoes.  Remove the bones & eat!  DELICIOUS!