Turkeys Are Cooking Faster Than Before

Turkeys Are Cooking Faster Than Before

In Turkey cooking time, "timing's NOT everything." Recommended cooking techniques must
also be followed. A meat thermometer should be used to ensure a sufficient internal temperature has been reached to destroy bacteria and prevent foodborne illness -- as well as to prevent overcooking.

Many variables can affect the turkey cooking time of the whole bird:

* A partially frozen bird requires longer cooking.
* Dark roasting pans cook faster than shiny metals.
* The depth and size of the pan can reduce heat circulation to all areas of the bird.
* The use of a foil tent for the entire time can slow cooking.
* Use of the roasting pan's lid speeds cooking.
* An oven cooking bag can accelerate cooking time.
* A stuffed bird takes longer to cook.
* Oven may heat food unevenly.
* Calibration of the oven's thermostat may be inaccurate.
* The rack position can have an effect on even cooking and heat circulation.
* A turkey or its pan may be too large for the oven, thus blocking heat circulation.
Turkey cooking time...