How do you thaw a turkey quickly?

To thaw a turkey quickly, cover the wrapped package completely in cool water, and change the water every 30 minutes until the turkey is completely thawed. Allow approximately 30 minutes for every pound of turkey.

1. Prepare a clean basin

   Find a basin or container large enough to hold the turkey once it is completely covered with water. Clean it thoroughly to reduce the risk of food contamination. Set the basin in a sink or bathtub, if possible, for easy water exchange.

2. Rinse off the frozen turkey packaging

   Remove any mesh wrap over the plastic covering as well as the price tag. Leave the plastic shrink-wrap completely intact on the frozen turkey. Rinse off the turkey quickly.

3. Place the turkey in the basin

   Place the turkey breast-side down in the prepared basin. Fill the basin with cool water until the turkey is completely covered.

4. Change the water frequently

   Every 30 minutes, dump out the water from the basin, and refill it with cool water until the turkey is completely covered again.

5. Allow plenty of time for the turkey to thaw

   Plan for at least 30 minutes per pound of turkey for thawing, and possibly even more.

6. Check for thawing

   Once the minimum time has passed, poke the wrapper gently to see if the meat is thawed. Once it feels fairly thawed, remove the turkey wrapper.

7. Remove the giblets

   Remove the giblets from the center of the turkey, although it is likely they are still somewhat frozen. Run cool water into the middle of the turkey until you can pull the giblets out and rinse the inside of the bird.