URGENT UPDATE: The Butterball Turkey Talk-Line is warning home cooks this Thanksgiving: don’t rely on pop-up timers for turkey doneness. Instead, experts recommend using a meat thermometer to ensure food safety and flavor.
Andrea Balitewicz, supervisor of the Butterball Turkey Talk-Line, emphasizes that the pop-up timer is “definitely not accurate” and fails to penetrate deep enough into the meat. For optimal cooking, she advises that the turkey should reach a safe internal temperature of 170 degrees Fahrenheit in the breast and thigh, while stuffing must hit 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
As Thanksgiving approaches, many families are looking for cooking tips and answers to turkey-related questions. The hotline, reachable at 800-BUTTERBALL, has evolved beyond just phone calls. Cooks can now engage via online chat at Butterball.com, ask questions through Amazon Alexa, or even text inquiries to 844-877-3456.
Balitewicz also addressed the hot topic of brining versus salting. “Butterball turkeys are already deep-basted with a light salt solution, so it’s not necessary to brine,” she stated. If choosing to brine, she advises reducing additional salt to prevent overly salty gravy.
Forgot to thaw your frozen turkey? Don’t panic! Balitewicz offers a solution: “Refresh the water about every 30 minutes, and it’ll thaw one pound for every 30 minutes.”
This year, families are not just preparing the traditional turkey feast; some are even adopting turkeys as pets instead of serving them for dinner. The Butterball Turkey Talk-Line continues to be an invaluable resource, helping to navigate the complexities of turkey preparation during the busy holiday season.
Stay informed and ensure your turkey is cooked safely this Thanksgiving by utilizing these expert tips and resources. Remember, checking that internal temperature with a reliable thermometer is key to a delicious and safe holiday meal!
