Brining a Frozen Turkey

Asked by devonbird. Answered on 25th November 2014

Full question

I'm going to try the Spiced And Superjuicy Roast Turkey recipe this year but in a effort to keep costs down, would it be ok to use a thawed frozen turkey instead of a free range one?

Our answer

Brining a turkey is always a good option as it adds moisture and flavour to both fresh and frozen turkeys. If using a frozen turkey then you do need to check that it it is not a pre-basted bird or one that has been pre-seasoned, as neither of these are suitable for brining.

If using a frozen turkey then you do need to make sure that the turkey is properly thawed before you brine it. A turkey can take 3 days or so to thaw fully in a fridge (depending on size) and you should always check and abide by the thawing guidelines that come with your turkey. The thawed turkey should then be brined for up to one day, so you will need to allow for this extra day when calculating when to remove the turkey from the freezer. Make sure that the turkey remains chilled while it is brining.

We would however mention that the cooking times given in Nigella's turkey cooking table are for a free-range bird, without stuffing, that has been allowed to come to room temperature before cooking. If your turkey is different to this then you should refer to the cooking guidelines that come with your turkey.

Thanksgiving is on Thursday 27th November 2014. Please see the Thankgiving Recipes section of the Nigella website for suggestions for turkey, sides and special desserts.