How long to defrost turkey?

[faygs]

About how long will it take to defrost an 18 lb. turkey in the fridge? I can't remember!

Thanks!

[testkitchen45]

Supposedly, about 1 day per 4 pounds--but count on it still being too cold in the center anyway; I've never had a turkey that wasn't, even when I bought a fresh one that supposedly was never frozen. The day before you cook it, be sure to rinse the insides really well and feel around in there, b/c you may well encounter ice crystals or slightly frozen meat. If you do, then you still have time to run some water inside & defrost your bird before The Big Day.

I hear ya--my turkey this year is 25.68 pounds!!! :eek:

[ADM]

Turkey - Thawing Chart


Weight: Refrigerator: Cold Water:

9-12 lb 1 1/2- 2 days 4-6 hours
12-16 2-3 6-9
16-20 3-4 9-11
20-24 4-5 11-12

[A rule of thumb: Thaw 1 day for every 5 pounds of turkey.]

[faygs]

Thanks! I think I'll put the turkey in the fridge on Sunday morning. Hopefully it will be defrosted by Thursday!