In this episode, we’re diving into food safety—why it matters and the simple steps to remember when cooking for holiday gatherings.

Resources: 

NC Cooperative Extension Food Safety Website: https://foodsafety.ces.ncsu.edu/

Basic Holiday Food Safety: https://foodsafety.ces.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/basic_holiday_2021-1.pdf-1.pdf?fwd=no

Turkey Thawing: 

 Refrigerator Thawing General Guidelines: 

Pounds | Time
For 4-12 lb turkey | Thaw 1-3 days
12-16 lb turkey | Thaw 3-4 days
16-20 lbs turkey | Thaw 4-5 days
20-24 lb turkey | Thaw 5-6 days

Water Bath Thawing. 

Make sure the water does not get above 40 degrees F and change the water every 30 minutes

Pounds | Time
For 4-12 lb turkey | Thaw 2-6 hours
12-16 lb turkey | Thaw 6-8 hours
16-20 lbs turkey | Thaw 8-10 hours
20-24 lb turkey | Thaw 10-12 hours