What size turkey do I need?
Allow 500g of meat on the bone for each person. This will give you enough for a meal with some left over.
- 6-8 people: 4kg turkey
- 10 people: 5kg turkey
- 12 people: 6kg turkey
What size turkey can I fit into my Smeg oven?
- 70-litre cavity (5 shelf positions) = 36lb/16kg turkey and a tray of potatoes.
- 65-litre cavity (4 shelf positions) = 36lb/16 turkey
The above weights are dependent on the shape and size of the turkey.
How long to defrost a frozen turkey?
At a cool room temperature (no more than 17.5ºC), it will take about 2 hours for every 450g.
Alternatively, defrost in the fridge overnight. It is important to thaw the turkey completely, before cooking.
How do I calculate the cooking time?
- Small birds and crown roasts 4kg or less: 20 minutes per kilo, plus 70 minutes.
- Birds over 4kg: 20 minutes per kilo, plus 90 minutes.
Roast at 170ºC on Circulaire (fan function).
For extra moist results, roast the turkey upside down, in a roasting dish of stock and vegetables.
Two-thirds of the way through the cooking time, turn the turkey the right way up to brown.
How do I know when my turkey is cooked through?
The juices run clear when your turkey is cooked through.
Use a food thermometer, and if the centre of the turkey reaches 75ºC in the breast meat and the thickest part of the leg, the turkey is cooked. Some butchers will supply pop-up, disposable meat thermometers to gauge when your turkey is cooked.
How long should I allow my turkey to rest?
Cover your turkey, loosely with foil and leave, at room temperature to rest. This will allow all of the juices to be drawn back into the meat and will ensure a tender, moist result. The ideal resting time is 30-40 minutes. Ensure that meat is placed in the fridge after no more than 2 hours of coming out of the oven.
