Thanksgiving Alert: 3 Urgent Ways to Safely Thaw Your Turkey

URGENT UPDATE: Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and the USDA has issued critical guidelines on how to safely thaw your frozen turkey. With the holiday just days away, knowing the right methods could make or break your feast.

If you’re planning to roast a turkey, the USDA confirms three safe thawing methods that can save your Thanksgiving dinner. The safest method? Thawing in the refrigerator, which requires 24 hours for every 4 to 5 pounds of turkey. For instance, a 16-pound turkey will take approximately four days to thaw. The USDA recommends starting this process as early as November 17, six days before Thanksgiving, to ensure your bird is ready in time.

But what if you forgot to plan ahead? Don’t panic! The USDA has two quick alternatives.

First, the cold water method allows for faster thawing. Keep the turkey in its original wrapping and submerge it in a sink filled with cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes to maintain a safe temperature. Expect to allow 30 minutes of thawing time per pound; therefore, a 16-pound turkey will take about 8 hours using this method. If you want to serve dinner in the afternoon, you might need to start this process as early as 4 a.m.!

The second option is thawing in the microwave, but ensure your turkey fits your oven first. Remove any outer wrapping and place the bird on a microwave-safe dish. Use the defrost function, allowing six minutes per pound. Rotate and flip the turkey regularly, and if any parts start cooking, let it rest for five minutes before continuing. Remember, once thawed, cook it immediately.

If you find your turkey is still frozen on Thanksgiving morning, the USDA states it is safe to cook a frozen turkey, but it will require at least 50% longer cooking time. Make sure to use a food thermometer; the turkey is ready when it reaches 165°F in the innermost parts of the thigh, wing, and breast.

As Thanksgiving approaches, these thawing methods are essential for a successful holiday feast. Make sure to share this information with friends and family to avoid any last-minute turkey disasters!

For more tips on safe thawing methods, visit the USDA website. Stay tuned for further updates on Thanksgiving preparations as we approach the big day!