To baste or not to bastethat’s the big question!
Whilenot everyone believes that basting is necessary, the ritual of basting turkey lives on.
Some cooks swear by it, claiming it helps lock in moisture and creates adeliciously golden skin.
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So, is basting worth it?
If so, how often should you baste?
Keep reading for answers.
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What Is Basting?
For a roasting turkey, basting can replenish some of the moisture lost during cooking.
Opening the oven door frequently to bastecauses the temperature to drop, which can extend cooking time.
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It also has little impact on the interior of the meat.
Depending on the liquid used, frequent basting may even prevent the skin from crisping up as desired.
This timing helps maintain the moisture of the meat without slowing downthe cooking process.
The salt also helps draw moisture to the surface of the turkey, promoting a crisp, browned skin.
With this flavorful liquid and fat distributed throughout the bird, there’s no need for basting.
This traps moisture, locking in the turkey’s natural juices and eliminating the need for basting.
Roasting bags in particular create a steam-filled environment that helps the turkey stay tender while promoting even cooking.
