How to Cook Turkey With Cheesecloth

Cooking a turkey with cheesecloth is a method used to keep the meat moist and flavorful during the cooking process. By covering the turkey in damp cheesecloth, you create a steamy environment that helps the turkey cook evenly and prevents it from drying out. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to cook a turkey with cheesecloth:

Ingredients:

- Whole turkey (thawed if frozen)

- Kosher salt

- Black pepper

- Olive oil

- Cheesecloth

- Cooking twine

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Turkey:

- Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water and pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels.

- Season the turkey inside and out with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Marinate the Turkey (Optional):

- If desired, you can marinate the turkey overnight or for a few hours in a mixture of olive oil, herbs, and spices. This step is optional but adds extra flavor to the turkey.

4. Wrap the Turkey in Cheesecloth:

- Cut several pieces of cheesecloth large enough to cover the entire turkey.

- Soak the cheesecloth in warm water and squeeze out excess water until the cheesecloth is damp but not dripping.

- Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.

- Drape the damp cheesecloth over the turkey, covering it completely.

- Secure the cheesecloth in place by tying it with cooking twine around the neck and legs of the turkey.

5. Roast the Turkey:

- Place the roasting pan with the turkey in the preheated oven.

- Roast the turkey for approximately 20-25 minutes per pound, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F (74°C).

- If the cheesecloth starts to dry out during roasting, re-dampen it with warm water.

6. Baste the Turkey (Optional):

- Every 30-40 minutes, baste the turkey with the pan juices to help keep it moist.

7. Rest the Turkey:

- Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving.

Remember that cooking times may vary depending on the size and shape of the turkey, as well as your oven. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature.