Turkey cooking time

[user271726]

So.

My turkey is 4.8kg, serves 7-10. The instructions calculate 2h 50 to cook.

MIL says it'll need double that.

I reckon follow the instructions but it's my first time hosting and I'm scared 😂. Does that sound about right?

Yes! No more than 3 hours for a turkey that size. Stick a knife in the fattest part after 3 hours and if the juices run clear, it's done.

I agree it sounds about right. All this cooking for six hours is why its always dry

Tbh, it depends on your oven! If you've roasted a chicken, before you'll have some idea how aggressive your oven is.

Take the turkey out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before it goes into the oven, for a start.

Follow the pack instructions. About 30-40 minutes before the done time, check for done-Ness. That will be loose legs and, if you prick the thickest part of the thigh with a skewer then run the juices over the blade of a knife, there will be no sign of pink.

If looking done, it's done - you might wNt to give it 10 minutes without foil for colour. Otherwise, carry on until the done time and test again. If still raw, test again every 20-30 minutes.

And buy a meat thermometer after Christmas. It removes any doubt about done-ness.Three hours sounds not far off. As PP says, it all depends on the oven and what temperature you are setting. You can start it four hours before it is needed and let it rest if it is done, or give it longer if necessary. Hope it all goes well!

Thanks All - I was actually comparing to the cooking of chicken but was thinking how much larger this is!

There's NO WAY it will take as long as she's said, but I'll tell her it did to keep her happy

If you want your turkey to have the texture of the bottom of a hamster cage go with MIL.