Add some Old Bay seasoning to your Thanksgiving turkey to make it more interesting. Whether you serve it whole or sliced, it will be the main dish that everyone wants more of. They’ll be grateful for this gravy, too. Tasty Team.

Boiling turkey may seem counterintuitive, but when done right, it yields incredibly moist, tender meat infused with tons of flavor. As an avid home cook and food blogger, I’ve perfected the art of boiling turkey over the years In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share all my tips, tricks and secrets to help you make the most delicious boiled turkey for your next holiday meal.

Why Boil a Turkey?

Speed – Boiling cooks a turkey in about an hour rather than roasting for 3-4 hours It’s one of the fastest cooking methods
Moisture – The moist heat from the boiling liquid keeps the turkey incredibly juicy and tender.
Flavor Infusion – Adding spices, herbs and aromatics to the boiling liquid allows their flavors to deeply penetrate the turkey meat.
Simplicity – Other than a large pot, boiling requires minimal equipment. No complicated roasting pans or thermometers needed!

Equipment Needed

Boiling turkey requires just a few basic supplies:

Large Stock Pot – You’ll need a very large stock pot, at least 8 quarts. Make sure your turkey will fit completely submerged.
Propane Burner (optional) – A burner makes it easier to boil outside vs. your stovetop.
Lifting Tool – Use large turkey lifters to safely lower and remove the turkey.
Basting Brush – For glazing on any sauce after boiling.
Meat Thermometer – To check the internal temperature when done.

Ingredients for the Boil

The boiling liquid is key for infusing flavor. Here are some great options:

Chicken/Turkey Stock – Use premade or homemade stock for the base.
Aromatics – Onion, garlic, celery, carrots, bay leaves, peppercorns, etc.
Herbs – Rosemary, thyme, sage, parsley.
Spices – Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, etc.
Citrus – Lemon, lime, orange slices or juice.
Salt – For seasoning the broth. Reduce if using a salty stock.

Step-by-Step Boiling Process

Follow these simple steps for perfect boiled turkey:

Prepare the Turkey – Thaw completely if frozen. Remove giblets and neck. Rinse and pat dry.
Make the Broth – In a large pot, combine stock, aromatics, herbs, spices, citrus, salt and water to cover. Bring to a boil.
Submerge the Turkey – Using lifters, slowly lower turkey into boiling broth, making sure fully submerged.
Adjust Temperature – Maintain a gentle simmer. Don’t let the broth boil vigorously.
Boil the Turkey – Cook for 45-60 minutes depending on size. Consult chart below.
Check for Doneness – Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe internal temp (165°F breast; 175°F thighs).
Remove and Drain – Transfer turkey to cutting board using lifters. Let drain and cool for 20-30 mins.

Turkey Size Boiling Times

For proper doneness, follow these boil times based on turkey weight:

8-12 lbs: 45-50 minutes
12-16 lbs: 50-55 minutes
16-20 lbs: 55-65 minutes
20-24 lbs: 65-75 minutes

Carving and Serving

Once boiled and cooled, carve the turkey and serve it:

As is, sliced or pulled into pieces
With a flavorful glaze or sauce
Deep fried for extra crispy skin
Smoked or roasted after boiling for additional flavor

However you slice it, boiled turkey is moist, delicious and sure to be a hit at your holiday table! It’s my go-to method for a foolproof bird with incredible flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions about boiling turkey? Here are some common FAQs:

Is boiled turkey safe to eat?

Yes, as long as the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F in the breast and 175°F in the thighs. The moist heat kills any harmful bacteria.

Does the turkey skin get crispy?

No, boiling makes the skin soft and tender, not crispy. If you want crispy skin, broil or fry the turkey after boiling.

Can you use a frozen turkey?

Yes, as long as it is completely thawed before boiling. Place frozen turkey in fridge for 24 hours per 4-5 lbs.

What broth is best for boiling?

Chicken or turkey broth have the most flavor. You can use water but the turkey won’t be as flavorful.

How do you keep the turkey submerged?

Use a plate or bowl to weigh it down if it tries to float. Add more water if needed.

What’s the best way to season the broth?

Try a Cajun seasoning blend, garlic powder, lemon slices, thyme and salt for lots of flavor.

Can you boil a turkey overnight?

No, boiling should not exceed the recommended times. Overcooking can dry out the turkey.

Conclusion

Boiling turkey is a quick, foolproof cooking method that delivers juicy, flavorful meat. With the right ingredients, technique and cooking times, you’ll have tender, deliciously seasoned turkey ready in about an hour. This guide covers everything you need to know start boiling turkeys like a pro. I hope you found these tips and secrets helpful. Wishing you happy holidays full of perfect boiled turkey!

how do you boil a turkey

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Crawfish Boiled Turkey

FAQ

How long should you boil turkey?

Allow the turkey to cook in the pot. Cook times range from 45-55 minutes for a 12-13 pound bird to one hour-one hour and 15 minutes. for a 15-18 pound turkey. I boiled this bird for one hour and 10 minutes and it was perfect.

What is the benefit of boiled turkey?

Rich in Vitamins and Minerals It contains vitamin B12, which helps support red blood cell formation, as well as zinc and iron, which help boost immunity. Turkey also provides a good dose of selenium, which has powerful antioxidant properties that help protect against disease.

Can you cook turkey in water?

While it likely won’t hurt (unless you don’t cook the turkey to a safe temp) there are five main reasons Johnson advises against cooking turkey with water in the pan: This will create spotty browning and may look underdone—even when the meat is fully cooked.

How long should you boil ground turkey?

Ground turkey should be boiled for about 10-12 minutes. Boiling ground turkey is a method often used to cook it for recipes like soups or stews. Ensure the turkey reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (73.9°C) by using a meat thermometer to confirm its doneness.

How do you boil a Turkey?

Here are some tips for boiling a turkey: * Use a large stockpot that is deep enough to hold the turkey and the water. * Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. * Simmer the turkey for 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

How long do you cook a turkey breast in a stockpot?

Fill a large stockpot with enough water to cover the turkey by at least 2 inches. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Add the turkey to the pot, breast-side up. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Simmer the turkey for 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Checking the Temperature

How long does it take to cook a Turkey?

* Size of the turkey: The larger the turkey, the longer it will take to cook. A 10-pound turkey will take about 2-3 hours to boil, while a 20-pound turkey will take about 3-4 hours to boil. * Temperature of the water: The higher the temperature of the water, the faster the turkey will cook.

Can You boil a frozen turkey?

Before you can boil a turkey, you need to prepare it by thawing it, removing the giblets, and rinsing it. To thaw a frozen turkey, place it in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can also thaw a turkey in a sink full of cold water. Just make sure to change the water every 30 minutes to prevent bacteria growth.

How do you cook a Turkey in a Dutch oven?

The best way to boil a turkey is to place it in a large pot or Dutch oven and cover it with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer the turkey for the desired amount of time. Be sure to check the internal temperature of the turkey using a meat thermometer to ensure that it is cooked through.

Can You boil a Turkey too long?

Boiling a turkey is a classic holiday tradition, but it can be tricky to get it right. If you boil a turkey for too long, it will be dry and tough. If you don’t boil it long enough, it will be undercooked and unsafe to eat. In this article, we’ll discuss the best way to boil a turkey so that it comes out perfectly juicy and flavorful.

The Secret to Juicy, Flavorful Boiled Turkey