Can You Steam a Turkey? Everything You Need to Know

Steaming turkey may not be the most common cooking method, but it is a great way to get deliciously moist and tender meat. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about steaming turkey, from how to do it properly to tips for the best results.

What is Steaming and How Does It Work?

Steaming is a moist-heat cooking method that uses steam to cook food. It works by suspending the food above boiling or simmering liquid in a covered pot or basket As the liquid boils and turns to steam, the steam surrounds and cooks the food.

There are a few key benefits to steaming over other cooking methods

• It prevents moisture loss, keeping food tender and juicy.
• It allows food to retain more nutrients, since they aren’t leached out into cooking liquid.
• It infuses food with flavor from steam vapor.
• It requires no added fat for cooking.

So in short, steaming locks in moisture and flavor for exceptionally succulent results.

Can You Steam a Whole Turkey?

Yes, you can absolutely steam a whole turkey! The key is having the right equipment – namely, an extra-large pot with a steaming basket or insert.

Here are a few tips for steaming a whole turkey:

• Choose a small to medium-sized turkey (10-15 lbs). Very large birds don’t fit as well in steaming setups.
• Use a tall stock pot or multi-cooker that will comfortably fit the bird and allow ample steam circulation.
• Place turkey on a rack inside the pot so it lifts up out of the liquid.
• Add 1-2 inches of broth or water to the pot below.
• Bring liquid to a simmer, cover pot, and steam turkey until cooked through.
• Allow longer cooking time than roasting, closer to 45 min per pound.

Steaming produces incredibly moist, succulent meat throughout the entire turkey. Just be aware it takes more active cooking time than roasting in the oven.

How to Steam Turkey Parts

For easier steaming, you can cook bone-in turkey parts like drumsticks, thighs, wings or breast halves. You can also steam boneless turkey breast slices or cutlets.

To steam turkey parts:

• Place parts in a single layer on a steaming basket or rack.
• Fill pot with 1-2 inches simmering broth, wine or water below.
• Cover and steam over medium heat until cooked through.
• Turkey breasts take 15-25 minutes, legs and thighs 40-60 minutes.

The benefit of parts is they require far less cooking time than a whole bird. Just watch closely and remove parts as they finish cooking.

Tips for Flavorful Steamed Turkey

Plain steamed turkey can turn out rather bland. Here are some easy ways to infuse more flavor:

• Use an aromatic broth like chicken or turkey stock in the pot instead of just water.
• Add citrus slices, herbs, garlic, ginger or spices to the steaming liquid.
• Marinate turkey in oil, spices, herbs and acid before steaming.
• Glaze or baste turkey with sauce during steaming.
• Coat turkey with a spice rub before steaming.
• Stuff aromatics inside the turkey cavity like onion, lemon, herbs.

Getting creative with flavors means your steamed turkey will turn out super moist yet packed with taste.

Steaming Turkey in a Combi Steam Oven

For the ultimate moist turkey with crispy skin, a combi steam oven is ideal. This specialty appliance combines steam and conventional heat modes.

Here is a simple combi steam oven turkey method:

• Pat turkey dry and rub with oil, salt and pepper. Stuff cavity if desired.
• Place on a rack in oven and select steam mode at 325°F. Cook 30-40 minutes.
• Switch to convection bake mode at 375°F to finish cooking and crisp the skin.

The initial steaming guarantees tender, juicy meat. The dry heat finishes and browns the skin beautifully.

How Long to Steam a Turkey

Whole turkey:

• 8-12 lbs = 3 to 4 hours
• 12-16 lbs = 4 to 5 hours
• 16-20 lbs = 5 to 6 hours

For turkey parts, see the estimates above under turkey parts. Always rely on a meat thermometer for doneness rather than time.

Signs Turkey is Done Steaming

Since steaming makes it harder to brown meat, use these tests instead of color to check for doneness:

• Internal temperature of 165°F at the thickest part.
• Meat pulling away from the bone.
• Juices running clear when meat is pierced.

If unsure, you can always steam a bit longer to be safe. The moist heat environment prevents overcooking.

Steaming Turkey Safety Tips

To safely steam turkey:

• Defrost fully in the refrigerator before cooking.
• Use a digital food thermometer to verify safe internal temperature.
• Discard any turkey left out beyond 2 hours.
• Break down turkey within 1-2 hours and refrigerate leftovers in shallow containers.
• Reheat thoroughly to 165°F and consume within 3-4 days.

Following food safety guidelines prevents bacteria from multiplying and causing foodborne illness.

Common Steaming Questions

Can you steam a turkey in an instant pot?

Yes, an instant pot or electric pressure cooker is great for steaming whole birds or parts. Cook at high pressure using the steaming rack and minimum liquid.

What is the best cut of turkey for steaming?

Boneless or bone-in breast meat and boneless cutlets or slices work wonderfully. Dark meat with bones, like legs and thighs, are also ideal candidates for steaming.

Can you steam a frozen turkey?

Do not attempt to steam a frozen turkey! Always thaw in the refrigerator until no ice crystals remain before cooking.

Is steamed turkey healthier?

Yes, steaming is one of the healthiest cooking methods. It allows turkey to retain more vitamins and minerals than high-heat methods since steam heat is gentle. Steaming also requires no added fat.

Steamed Turkey is Moist and Nutritious

Steaming is an easy, fuss-free way to cook deliciously moist and tender turkey with excellent retention of nutrients. While it takes more active cooking time than roasting, the results are well worth the effort. With the right equipment, some simple flavor boosters, and proper technique, you can enjoy incredible steamed turkey any time of year. Give this underrated cooking method a try for your next holiday or family meal.