Reheating Turkey: Oil-Less Frying, Safe?

Turkey is a versatile dish that can be cooked and reheated in various ways. While some people prefer the traditional oven-roasted turkey, others may opt for deep-frying or air-frying. Reheating a turkey in an air fryer is a convenient and quick option, as it uses hot air circulation to cook the meat evenly and prevents it from drying out. However, it's important to note that the size of the turkey leg and the power of the air fryer will determine the reheating time.

To reheat a turkey in an air fryer, it is recommended to let the meat reach room temperature before cooking. This ensures even cooking. Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spray the basket with cooking spray. Place the turkey leg in the basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until it is heated through. For a crispier skin, you can baste the turkey with barbecue sauce or your preferred sauce during the final minutes of cooking.

It is important to note that the internal temperature of the turkey should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it is cooked thoroughly. Additionally, be cautious not to overcook the turkey, as it can become dry and tough.

How to reheat turkey in an oven

Reheating turkey in an oven is a great way to enjoy tender, mouthwatering leftovers. Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure your turkey is heated through while remaining juicy and flavorful.

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to a low temperature, ideally 300°F to 325°F. This prevents the heat from drawing moisture away from the meat while ensuring it doesn't take hours to reheat.

Let the Turkey Come to Room Temperature:

Take your turkey out of the refrigerator and let it sit on the counter for about 10 to 30 minutes. This step helps the meat reheat more evenly, reducing the risk of overcooking.

Carve the Turkey:

If you haven't already done so, carve the turkey into smaller, uniform pieces. This promotes even heating and helps prevent the meat from drying out. Remove as much meat from the bone as possible, keeping drumsticks intact.

Place Turkey in a Baking Tray:

Arrange the carved turkey in a single layer on a baking tray. If you're reheating multiple pieces, ensure they are not crowded in the tray, which can cause uneven heating.

Add Moisture:

Drizzle some leftover broth, stock, or gravy over the turkey. This step is crucial to keeping the meat moist and juicy. You can also add a pat of butter for extra flavor and moisture.

Cover with Aluminum Foil:

Cover the baking tray with aluminum foil. This prevents moisture from escaping too quickly and helps retain flavor.

Reheat the Turkey:

Place the covered baking tray in the preheated oven and cook for about 20 to 30 minutes. The exact time will depend on the amount of turkey you're reheating, so use your best judgment.

Check the Temperature:

To ensure food safety, use an instant-read thermometer to check that the turkey has reached a minimum internal temperature of 165°F. Insert the thermometer into the thickest parts of the meat, being careful not to touch the bone.

Let the Turkey Rest:

Once the turkey is heated through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy bite.

Serve and Enjoy:

Your tender, juicy, and flavorful turkey is now ready to be served! Enjoy your delicious leftovers as is or use them in sandwiches, salads, or other creative dishes.

How to reheat turkey in a microwave

Yes, you can reheat turkey in an oil-less fryer. This type of fryer uses infrared heat and a cylindrical cooking chamber to cook turkey at a rate of approximately 10 to 15 minutes per pound.

Now, here's how to reheat turkey in a microwave:

First, cut the turkey into bite-sized pieces. Smaller pieces will ensure more even heating and reduce the chances of the outside drying out before the inside is heated through.

Next, place the turkey pieces in a microwave-safe container and drizzle with a few spoonfuls of liquid such as chicken stock, broth, or gravy. Adding moisture to the meat will help prevent it from drying out. You can also add a pat of butter for some extra fat. Cover the container with a lid or a damp paper towel.

Reheat the turkey on 50% power in 1-minute intervals or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. For each pound of turkey, you can also cook it on 70% power for one minute. Check the temperature with a cooking thermometer to ensure it is piping hot, not just warmed through.

Let the turkey rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

How to carve a turkey

Yes, you can reheat turkey in an oil-less fryer. If you're reheating a whole turkey, it's best to use an outdoor fryer kit.

Now, here's how to carve a turkey:

Step 1: Rest the Turkey

Let the cooked turkey rest for about 15 to 30 minutes. This will allow the juices to settle, so they don't spill when you start carving.

Step 2: Use a Sharp Knife

You'll need a large, sharp chef's knife, a big cutting board, a platter, and some paper towels. Place the turkey on the cutting board with the cavity facing towards you and remove any trussing or butcher's twine.

Step 3: Remove the Leg and Thigh

Slice the skin near the thigh to separate the leg from the body. Cut through the joint and along the body, angling the knife towards the bone. When you hit the bone, grasp the thigh and bend it backward until the joint pops and becomes visible. Slice through the joint and the rest of the thigh meat to separate the leg and thigh from the backbone. Repeat on the other side.

Step 4: Cut Off the Wings

Pull the wings backward until you hear a pop, then slice through the joints to remove them.

Step 5: Remove the Breasts

Make a long, deep cut along one side of the breastbone, following the curve of the bone and gently pulling the meat away as you go. Repeat on the other side. You may want to pause to wipe down the cutting board to get rid of excess juice.

Step 6: Slice the White Meat

Place the breasts skin-side up on the cutting board and cut across the breast meat into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Use long cutting strokes instead of short sawing ones for neater slices. Cut the wing in half and transfer the white meat to your serving platter.

Step 7: Slice the Dark Meat

Separate the thigh from the drumstick by wiggling your knife in the joint. Place the drumsticks on the platter, remove the bone from the thigh, and place the boneless thigh skin-side up to slice. Transfer to the platter.

Carving cools the meat, so the turkey will be ready to serve as soon as it's plated. You can garnish the platter with seasonal fruit, like small pears or grapes, and whisk it to the table while it's still warm.

How to store leftover turkey

Storing leftover turkey correctly is essential to prevent food waste and ensure it stays tasty and safe to eat. Here are some detailed tips on how to store leftover turkey:

Divide and Store Meat and Bones Separately

Firstly, divide the leftover turkey meat into light and dark meat, as people often have a preference for one over the other. Then, separate the meat from the bones. This step makes it easier for people to find their preferred meat type and saves space in your refrigerator.

Store Meat in Shallow Containers

Leftover turkey meat should be stored in the refrigerator, with the meat divided into several shallow containers rather than one large one. This is because stacking containers can trap heat, and having more surface area exposed to cold air helps the food cool faster. Make sure to use airtight containers or plastic bags, and consider pre-slicing the meat for convenience.

Freeze Some Leftovers

It is a good idea to freeze some of the leftover turkey, especially if you have a lot. Leftover turkey is best frozen within four days and will last indefinitely at 0°F, though it is best consumed within two to three months for optimal taste. Wrap the meat in freezer paper or foil, then seal it in plastic freezer bags, ensuring all air is pressed out.

Make Stock with the Bones

If you have leftover vegetables, consider making your own turkey stock by boiling the bones with veggies, or using a slow cooker or pressure cooker. Alternatively, store the bones in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.

Plan Meals with Leftovers in Mind

Before storing your leftover turkey, plan how you will use it. Consider the amount you will realistically eat in the next few days, and how much you want to freeze. Also, think about what recipes you want to make with the leftovers, such as sandwiches, soups, casseroles, or stock.

Other Considerations

• Remove any stuffing from the turkey cavity and store it separately.
• Leftovers should be cooled down as quickly as possible and refrigerated within two hours of the meal.
• When reheating leftovers, ensure they reach a temperature of 165°F. Use a thermometer to check.
• Label and date your leftovers so you know what they are and when to use them by.
• Make room in your refrigerator and freezer before storing leftovers.
• Do not let food come to room temperature before storing it. Refrigerate leftovers immediately, even if they are still hot.

By following these tips, you can ensure your leftover turkey remains tasty and safe to eat, minimising food waste.

How to prevent leftover turkey from drying out

Yes, you can reheat leftover turkey in an air fryer. Here are some tips to prevent your leftover turkey from drying out:

Preparation:

• Thaw the turkey in the refrigerator overnight.
• Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey.
• Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water.
• Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
• Preheat the air fryer to 325°F–350°F.

Reheating:

• Place the turkey in the air fryer basket.
• If reheating a small portion of turkey, add it to a layer of foil, then pour 1/4 cup of broth over the top. Seal the foil to make a packet that will keep the steam inside.
• If you have a larger portion of turkey to reheat, place it in an oven-safe baking dish that will fit in your air fryer basket. Add the turkey to the bottom, then pour the broth over the top. Tightly seal the dish with aluminium foil.
• Cook the turkey for 8–12 minutes per pound, or until heated through.
• Let the turkey rest for a few minutes before serving.

Additional Tips:

• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• If reheating a large piece of turkey, you may need to cook it for longer than 20 minutes per pound.
• Baste the turkey with melted butter or cooking spray every 10 minutes to prevent it from drying out.
• If the turkey is dry, baste it with melted butter or cooking spray while reheating.
• Serve the turkey with your favourite sides, such as mashed potatoes, gravy, and vegetables.

Frequently asked questions