Chef Leah Cohen shares her expert tips for a perfectly cooked turkey
As Thanksgiving approaches, millions of Americans are gearing up to cook their traditional turkey feast. While the chef in the home takes on the responsibility of preparing the centerpiece dish, it’s important to avoid some common mistakes that can lead to a less-than-perfect turkey. Chef Leah Cohen, a former “Top Chef” contestant and owner of two New York City restaurants, has shared her insights on the most popular errors people make when cooking their turkeys. In this article, we will explore her tips for avoiding these mistakes and ensuring a delicious and moist Thanksgiving turkey.
Under-seasoning their turkey
One of the most common mistakes people make when cooking a Thanksgiving turkey is under-seasoning it. Cohen suggests brining the turkey in advance to enhance its flavor and keep it moist. The size of the bird determines the brining time, but a minimum of 12 hours is recommended. After brining, it’s essential to rinse off the brine and pat the turkey dry to ensure proper seasoning.
Having a dry turkey
Turkey tends to be on the dry side due to its low fat content. To combat this, Cohen recommends using a compound butter made with unsalted butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, soy sauce, and oyster sauce. Rubbing this mixture under the skin and on the outside of the turkey helps to add moisture and flavor, resulting in a juicy and flavorful bird.
Not tempering the turkey before cooking
Tempering the turkey before cooking is a crucial step that many people overlook. Cohen advises taking the turkey out of the refrigerator at least two hours before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking throughout and prevents the turkey from drying out.
Not using a roasting rack
Using a roasting rack is essential for cooking a turkey evenly and preventing it from burning. The rack allows for airflow at the bottom of the turkey, while a pan beneath catches the juices. Cohen also suggests adding onions, carrots, and celery to the pan halfway through cooking to enhance the flavors.
Not letting the turkey rest
After the turkey is cooked to perfection, it’s tempting to dig right in. However, Cohen advises letting the turkey rest for about 20 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices inside the turkey to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful meat.
Conclusion:
Preparing a Thanksgiving turkey can be a daunting task, but by avoiding these common mistakes and following Chef Leah Cohen’s expert tips, you can ensure a delicious and moist centerpiece for your holiday feast. From properly seasoning and brining the turkey to using a roasting rack and allowing it to rest, each step plays a vital role in achieving a perfect turkey. So, this Thanksgiving, impress your guests with a flawlessly cooked turkey that will be the highlight of the meal.
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