I was scrolling through my social media feed when I stumbled upon a video that caught my attention – it showed someone microwaving a turkey! Yes, you read that right. Microwaving a turkey. As a busy individual who often finds it challenging to find time to cook a Thanksgiving feast, this piqued my interest.
Now, I’m sure you’re just as skeptical as I was when I first heard about this unusual cooking method. But, it turns out that microwaving a turkey is not only possible but also a quick and convenient option for those with limited time. So, if you’re curious about how to microwave a turkey, keep reading!
Preparing the Turkey
Choose the Right Size
Before we dive into the microwaving process, it’s essential to select the right-sized turkey. It’s recommended to use a turkey that weighs between 12-14 pounds. Anything larger might not fit properly in your microwave.
Thawing
Thawing the turkey is a crucial step in the preparation process. Make sure to thaw your turkey completely before attempting to microwave it. You can leave it in the refrigerator for a couple of days or use the defrost function on your microwave. It’s important to note that microwaving a frozen turkey can result in uneven cooking.
Seasoning
Once your turkey is thawed, it’s time to season it! You can choose any seasonings you prefer, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or even a special turkey seasoning blend. Rub the seasoning all over the turkey, making sure to cover every inch for a flavorful result.
Preparing the Microwave
Before you begin microwaving your turkey, it’s vital to ensure that your microwave is the right size and in good working condition. Here are some steps to follow:
Clean the Microwave
Start by cleaning the interior of your microwave thoroughly. Wipe away any grease or food particles to prevent them from sticking to your turkey during the cooking process.
Place a Microwave-Safe Rack
Next, you’ll need a microwave-safe rack or trivet to elevate your turkey. This helps to ensure that the heat circulates evenly, allowing for uniform cooking. Place the rack in a microwave-safe dish or on a microwave-safe plate.
Prevent Overcooking
To prevent any unwanted accidents, cover the legs and wings of the turkey with aluminum foil. The foil will shield these areas from overheating and becoming too dry.
Microwaving the Turkey
Now that you’ve prepped your turkey and the microwave let’s get to the exciting part – microwaving! The following steps will guide you through the process:
Timing
Microwaving a turkey is all about timing. For a 12-14 pound turkey, it’s recommended to start with 9 minutes of microwaving time per pound. So, if you have a 12-pound turkey, you would calculate 12 x 9 = 108 minutes (1 hour and 48 minutes).
Rotate and Flip
After each 9-minute interval, it’s crucial to rotate and flip the turkey to ensure equal cooking. This will help you achieve a perfectly cooked turkey from all angles.
Check the Internal Temperature
To ensure that your turkey is cooked safely, check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. The turkey should reach a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. This way, you can be confident that your turkey is both delicious and safe to eat.
Finishing Touches
Once your turkey is done, let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving. This helps the juices distribute evenly throughout the meat, resulting in a moist and succulent turkey.
Carve and serve your turkey with your favorite Thanksgiving fixings, whether it be creamy mashed potatoes, tangy cranberry sauce, or savory stuffing. You’ll have a Thanksgiving feast that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare, but in reality, it was ready in a fraction of the time!
Final Thoughts
While the idea of microwaving a turkey may seem unconventional, it’s a quick and convenient option for those with limited time on their hands. With the right preparation and some patience, you can achieve a perfectly cooked turkey in a fraction of the time it takes to roast one in the oven.
So, this Thanksgiving, embrace the unconventional and give microwaving a turkey a try. Who knows, it may just become your go-to method for future feasts!