Boiling a turkey is an excellent alternative to roasting for a moist, flavorful bird that practically falls off the bone. But just how long should you boil your turkey to perfection? Proper timing is key to ensuring it turns out tender and cooked through.
In this article, we’ll provide a complete guide on boil times for turkeys of all sizes so your holiday centerpiece is sublime. Let’s get boiling!
Why Boil a Turkey?
Before we dive into timing, you may be wondering – why choose boiling over roasting in the first place? Here are some of the advantages of boiling turkey:
- Yields exceptionally moist, tender meat that easily pulls apart
- Infuses flavor into the meat from cooking liquid
- Cooks the bird evenly throughout
- Can be done indoors without an oven
- Allows you to multitask while it cooks unattended
- Provides delicious broth for gravy or soup making
So if you’re looking to change up your usual roast turkey routine give boiling a try this year!
General Time Guidelines
The exact boil time depends on a few factors, especially the size and weight of your turkey. Here are some general time guidelines to follow:
- 12-14 lb turkey: Boil for 45 minutes up to 1 hour
- 15-18 lb turkey: Boil for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
- 18-22 lb turkey: Boil for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes
- 22-24 lb turkey: Boil for 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours
The best way to precisely determine if your turkey is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Turkey is safe to eat once the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F.
If your turkey is stuffed, expect it to take about 15-30 minutes longer to fully cook through.
Step-by-Step Boiling Instructions
Follow these simple steps for perfectly boiled turkey:
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Choose a large stockpot and add broth, water and aromatics like garlic, onions, herbs.
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Submerge thawed, rinsed turkey in liquid breast-side down.
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Bring to a boil then reduce heat to a gentle simmer.
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Cover and cook for estimated time based on size.
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Use a meat thermometer to check doneness – 165°F.
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Remove turkey carefully and let rest 15 minutes before carving.
It’s that easy! Low and slow simmering gives you leeway on the exact timing.
Boiling Turkey Breast
If cooking just a turkey breast instead of a whole bird, here is a helpful time chart:
- 5 lbs: 45 minutes to 1 hour
- 6-8 lbs: 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
- 10 lbs: 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes
Halve these times if boiling boneless turkey breast. Again, check the internal temperature to be sure.
Boiling a Frozen Turkey
It is safe to boil a frozen turkey without thawing first, but the timing will be significantly longer. Follow this timeline:
- 12-14 lbs: Add 1 hour to thawed time
- 15-18 lbs: Add 1.5 hours to thawed time
- 18-22 lbs: Add 2 hours to thawed time
- 22-24 lbs: Add 2.5 hours to thawed time
Make sure the breast cavity is submerged at all times during cooking.
Letting Your Turkey Rest
An important final step is allowing your boiled turkey to rest before carving. The resting time enables juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat.
Plan on letting your turkey rest for 15-20 minutes on a cutting board after removing it from the pot. Tenting it loosely with foil will keep it warm.
After all that simmering time, what’s a few more minutes of patience? Your turkey will be much more moist for it!
Master the Perfect Boiled Turkey
With these handy boil times, you can confidently cook a spectacular boiled turkey for Thanksgiving or any occasion. No more guessing about doneness or drying out the meat.
For even more flavor, consider brining your turkey overnight before boiling. And be sure to strain that flavor-packed poaching liquid for gravy!
Does boiling a turkey sound easier than constantly basting a roast in the oven? Try this method and wow your guests with the juiciest, most tender turkey they’ve ever tasted.
More Delicious Turkey Recipes to Try
After mastering the basics of boiling a turkey, the culinary journey doesnt end there. Explore a variety of recipes that utilize this method, each offering a unique twist on traditional turkey dishes. For a comforting meal, try the comforting boiled turkey vegetable soup, perfect for chilly evenings. If youre in the mood for something innovative, the zesty asian style boiled turkey introduces a zesty flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the subtle taste of turkey. For those hosting family gatherings, the crowd pleasing boiled turkey pot pie is a crowd-pleaser, combining the soothing flavors of boiled turkey with a crispy crust. These recipes not only extend the utility of your boiled turkey skills but also enrich your cooking repertoire with diverse, flavorful meals. Share your tips and techniques for boiling a turkey in the
How To Boil A Turkey
Gobble, gobble! If you’re looking for a delicious and alternative way to cook your turkey, boiling might just be the perfect method for you. Boiling a turkey can yield tender and juicy meat that falls right off the bone. Plus, it’s a great option for those who don’t have access to an oven or simply want to try something different. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of boiling a turkey to perfection.
- A large stockpot or a deep roasting pan with a lid
- A whole turkey (fresh or thawed)
- Water or broth
- Assorted herbs and spices for flavor (such as bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper)
- Prepare the turkey by removing the giblets and neck from the cavity. Rinse the turkey thoroughly under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Fill your stockpot or roasting pan with enough water or broth to fully submerge the turkey. If needed, add additional flavorings like bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper to the liquid.
- Place the turkey into the pot, breast side down. Make sure the liquid completely covers the turkey.
- Cover the pot with a lid and bring the liquid to a boil over high heat.
- Once the liquid is boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer the turkey for about 20 minutes per pound. For example, if you have a 12-pound turkey, it would need to boil for approximately 4 hours.
- While the turkey is boiling, you can use this time to prepare your favorite side dishes or work on making a delicious gravy.
- After the recommended cooking time, carefully remove the turkey from the pot using large tongs or sturdy oven mitts. Place it on a large cutting board or platter to cool slightly.
- Let the turkey rest for about 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist turkey.
- Carve the turkey into desired portions and serve it with your favorite accompaniments. Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and cranberry sauce are classic choices!
- Enjoy your boiled turkey feast!
Boiling a turkey may not be the most traditional cooking method, but it can certainly deliver a tasty and succulent bird. Whether you’re experimenting with new cooking techniques or simply want to switch things up this holiday season, boiling your turkey is a fantastic option. So, gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and get ready to enjoy a tender and flavorful turkey like never before!
How to Boil Turkey Neck & Giblets: Cooking with Kimberly
FAQ
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