How To Cook A Smoked Turkey
All you need to know about: How To Cook A Smoked Turkey.
How To Cook A Smoked Turkey
Smoked turkey is a delicious and flavorful way to enjoy a turkey. Smoking a turkey can be a lengthy process, but it is well worth the effort. Here’s how to prepare a smoked turkey that will be the centerpiece of your holiday feast.
Preparing the Turkey
Start by defrosting the turkey if it is frozen. Allow the turkey to thaw in the refrigerator for 24 hours for every five pounds of weight. Once the turkey has thawed, remove the giblets from the cavity. Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water, and then pat it dry with paper towels.
Seasoning the Turkey
Now you can give the turkey flavor by seasoning it. Start by rubbing the outside of the bird with olive oil, and then season it with your favorite spices. Some popular turkey seasonings include rosemary, sage, garlic powder, and paprika. Sprinkle the seasonings on the outside of the bird, and then rub them in. You can also season the inside of the turkey by placing fresh herbs, garlic cloves, lemon slices, and onion slices inside the cavity.
Smoking the Turkey
You can use a smoker, an outdoor charcoal grill, or an indoor electric smoker to smoke the turkey. If you are using a charcoal or outdoor grill, you will need to set up a two-zone fire. This will allow you to smoke the turkey without burning it. Place the turkey on the indirect heat side of the grill, and add soaked wood chips to the charcoal to create the smoke. Maintain the temperature of the grill at 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit while smoking.
Cooking the Turkey
Once the turkey is on the smoker, add the lid and let it cook. Most smoked turkeys will take around 4-6 hours to cook, but you should use a meat thermometer to make sure it is cooked to the proper temperature. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Serving the Smoked Turkey
Once the smoked turkey is cooked, let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to settle and the turkey to be juicier and more flavorful. Serve the smoked turkey with your favorite sides and enjoy!