Wednesday, November 12, 2008

It's Turkey Time !

What kind of turkey will you serve on Thanksgiving? An online survery conducted by The Culinary Institute of America found that 43% of responders were serving frozen and 25% marked free-range. Most frozen turkeys are injected with a basting solution to keep them moist. Free-range turkeys roam outside and eat mainly grass which affects flavor. Organic turkeys by law must be raised on grass grown without genetic engineering, ioizing radiation or sewege sludge. These birds may not be given hormones or antibiotics. Free range turkeys are often organically raised. Unless you decide on frozen turkey which are usually in great supply, it is a good idea to order ahead. Then you can be sure you'll get what you want. Shop early for frozen turkeys or you may end up with a 26 lb. bird. That's a lot of turkey. To thaw safely, place the frozen bird in the refrigerator and allow about 24 hours for each 5 lbs. Plan ahead!

2 comments:

Sinclairs said...

It was nice that you didn't mention that your daughter-in-law not only ALWAYS buys the biggest turkey but that she also never allows enough thawing time! :) So how much turkey do you recommend for 4 adults and 2 kids - with enough for leftovers?

Pat Sinclair said...

A 14 to 16 lb. turkey would be sufficient. It provides 10 to 12 servings. If you love leftovers, buy a larger bird. Allow one day for each 5 lb. of turkey to thaw in the refrigerator.