Now that November has arrived, it’s time to start organizing your Thanksgiving menu, which calls for starting the cooking process one month in advance. Don’t worry, we’ve got some useful advice to help make the holidays easier, like the ideal pie crust recipe and the best wines to serve at Thanksgiving. But first, you should know when to order your Thanksgiving turkey so that we can discuss all of that.
Among all the items on our convenient Thanksgiving shopping list, you should begin planning your turkey purchase as soon as possible. Thus, the precise time that you should purchase your Thanksgiving turkey will depend on a few different factors. Here’s a breakdown of when to buy or order your turkey for every situation, so read on before it’s too late! Will you be purchasing a frozen or fresh turkey? How much space will you have to store it? How will you order your turkey—online or from a store?
Next, see our advice on how much turkey to serve each person and Ree Drummonds’ turkey brine recipe. (It makes all the difference!).
Ah, Thanksgiving. A time for family, friends, and of course, the star of the show: the turkey. But before you gobble up the delicious bird, you have a crucial decision to make: frozen or fresh? Fear not, fellow foodies, for this guide will unravel the mysteries of both options, helping you choose the perfect turkey for your feast.
Frozen Turkeys: A Time-Traveling Feast
Frozen turkeys offer the ultimate in convenience and flexibility. You can snag one months in advance, ensuring you won’t be caught empty-handed when the holiday frenzy hits. Plus, they’re generally cheaper than their fresh counterparts. But remember, frozen turkeys require some planning.
Thawing Time: A Matter of Patience
The key to a perfectly cooked frozen turkey is proper thawing. The general rule of thumb is one day for every four pounds of turkey. So a 16-pound bird needs four days of thawing in the refrigerator. Don’t rush the process by leaving it on the counter – food safety is paramount!
Fresh Turkeys: The Last-Minute Hero
Fresh turkeys are for those who like to live on the edge (or simply haven’t planned ahead). You can buy them just a day or two before Thanksgiving, eliminating the thawing hassle. However, be prepared to pay a premium for the convenience.
Storage Tips: Keeping Your Turkey Fresh
Whether frozen or fresh, proper storage is crucial. Frozen turkeys should remain in their original packaging and stay frozen until thawing time. Once thawed, transfer them to the refrigerator on a tray to catch any drips. Fresh turkeys also need a cozy spot in the fridge, preferably on a tray to prevent cross-contamination.
Frequently Asked Questions: Your Thanksgiving Turkey Conundrums Answered
Q: When should I order my turkey?
A: If ordering online, do it well before Thanksgiving. Frozen turkeys can be ordered months in advance and stored in your freezer.
Q: Are frozen turkeys cheaper?
A: Generally, yes. But prices can vary depending on the store and time of purchase.
Q: What if my turkey is still frozen?
A: Don’t panic! There are safe ways to thaw it quickly, like submerging it in cold water. Just be sure to follow proper food safety guidelines.
The Verdict: Choose Your Turkey Wisely
Ultimately, the choice between frozen and fresh comes down to personal preference and planning. Frozen turkeys offer affordability and flexibility, while fresh turkeys provide last-minute convenience. No matter which you choose, remember to thaw properly, store safely, and enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving feast!
When should I order a turkey for Thanksgiving?
It’s always a good idea to order a turkey, especially if you don’t want to stress out while preparing for Thanksgiving. These days, a lot of farms and grocery stores let you reserve or order your fresh turkey in advance and pick it up closer to the holiday. This will enable you to reserve the appropriate size turkey for your family in addition to ensuring that there is a turkey on the table.
There are many online grocery stores that offer mail-order turkeys, so you can avoid the crowded supermarket entirely. Just make sure to verify the delivery schedule to make sure the turkey will arrive in time for your holiday feast!
When to buy a fresh turkey?
Whether or not you reserve a turkey from the store, picking up your turkey or actually purchasing a fresh turkey should be something you do within a couple of days of Thanksgiving. According to Butterball, an unopened fresh turkey can be stored in the refrigerator until the sell-by date but should be cooked within four days.