This is one time when Mamas way might not be the right way.
The short answer is, no, not really.
Can Turkey Thaw Overnight On The Counter?
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Unfortunately, you cannot see, smell, or taste that bad bacteria.
Then, just leave it alone.
While this method is easy, you do need to plan ahead.
The USDA recommends allowing at leastone day of thawingfor every four pounds of turkey.
That means your20-pound whopperwill need five days to properly thaw in the refrigerator.
Once the bird is thawed, be sure to cook it within two days.
So thaw the turkey in the fridge six days before Thanksgiving.
First, find a container large enough to hold the turkey.
(In a pinch, a large cooler, canning pot, or even bathtub can work.)
Change the water every 30 minutes so the turkey stays cold while it thaws.
It will take at least 30 minutes per pound of turkey to thoroughly thaw, so plan accordingly.
Once the turkey is thawed with this method, cook immediately.
If you get a frozen turkey, we recommend starting the thawing process about a week before Turkey Day.
U.S. Department of Agriculture.How temperatures affect food.
Butterball.How to thaw a frozen turkey.
U.S. Department of Agriculture.How to safely thaw a turkey.
