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!).
Don’t let your Thanksgiving turkey turn into a food safety nightmare!
This guide will help you navigate the confusing world of fresh turkey storage and ensure your bird stays fresh and delicious until it’s time to gobble it up.
Fresh Turkey Sell-By Dates: What You Need to Know
The “sell-by” date on a fresh turkey is like a friendly suggestion from the store, not a hard-and-fast rule. The USDA recommends keeping fresh turkey in the refrigerator for 1-2 days before cooking. However if your turkey has a “best-by” date, that’s the date you should aim to cook it by for optimal quality and safety.
But what if your turkey’s “sell-by” date has already passed? Don’t panic! The turkey is probably still safe to eat, but you’ll want to check for signs of spoilage, like off-odors, discoloration, or slimy texture If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and toss it out
Fresh Turkey Storage Tips for the Savvy Cook
- Refrigerate immediately: As soon as you bring your fresh turkey home, pop it in the fridge at 40°F or below. This will help keep it safe and prevent bacteria growth.
- Bottom shelf is best: Store your turkey on the bottom shelf of your fridge to prevent cross-contamination with other foods.
- Keep it wrapped: Leave the turkey in its original packaging or wrap it securely in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help prevent it from drying out.
- No ice necessary: Surrounding your turkey with ice isn’t necessary, as long as your fridge maintains a temperature of 40°F or below.
Maximizing Fresh Turkey Shelf Life: Pro Tips
- Buy fresh turkey 1-2 days before you plan to cook it. This gives you ample time to thaw and prepare the bird without compromising its quality.
- Choose air-chilled turkey if possible. This method of chilling helps preserve the turkey’s moisture and flavor.
- Consider dry-brining your turkey. This technique involves rubbing the turkey with salt and other seasonings and letting it rest uncovered in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours. Dry-brining helps enhance flavor and moisture retention.
Fresh Turkey Storage: Your Questions Answered
Q: Can I freeze my fresh turkey?
A: Absolutely! Freezing your fresh turkey is a great way to extend its shelf life. The USDA recommends freezing the turkey within 1-2 days of purchase or by the “best-by” date on the label. Frozen turkey can be stored indefinitely, but for best quality, aim to consume it within 12 months.
Q: How do I thaw a frozen turkey?
A: The safest way to thaw a frozen turkey is in the refrigerator. Allow 24 hours of thawing time for every 4-5 pounds of turkey. You can also thaw your turkey in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.
Q: Can I cook a frozen turkey?
A: Yes, you can cook a frozen turkey, but it will take longer than cooking a thawed turkey. Be sure to consult a reliable recipe for cooking times and instructions.
Remember: When in doubt about the safety of your fresh turkey, always err on the side of caution and consult the USDA guidelines or a qualified food safety expert.
Happy Thanksgiving and safe turkey feasting!
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.
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!
How long will a whole turkey keep in a refrigerator?
FAQ
How long does fresh turkey from the butchers last?
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Meat Cut
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Refrigerator (5˚C or below)
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Freezer (0˚C or below)
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Chicken or Turkey (whole)
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1-2 days
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1 year
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Chicken or Turkey (pieces)
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1-2 days
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9 months
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Meat added
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3-4 days
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2-3 months
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Uncured Ham (uncooked)
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3-5 days
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6 months
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