You're cooking turkey wrong – Mary Berry says common mistake makes it go dry
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It's that time of year again, which means many of us are starting to think about the main event - the Christmas turkey. After all, the meat is always the star of the show, but getting it just right can be a challenge. However, one mistake can make the meat dry, tasteless or - even worse - undercooked.
Luckily, legendary food writer Mary Berry has shared some sound advice to help you achieve the perfect roast turkey. A common mistake to avoid is overcooking the bird, which can be prevented by using a simple trick. In a viral TikTok video, she explained: "My top tip for the perfect roast turkey is not to overcook it. Roast it and, near the end of the cooking time, put a skewer into the thickest part of the thigh, and the juices should run clear. When they do, it's done. Don't overcook it.".
A commenter summed up the expert's tip by saying, "The Queen has spoken." When it comes to perfecting the art of roast turkey, getting the cooking time and temperature just right is crucial. This can be calculated at 13 minutes per pound for an unstuffed bird at 350°F/180°C/Gas Mark 4. This works out at approximately 3 hours for a 12-14lb bird, while a stuffed turkey requires 15 minutes per pound.
According to expert advice, wrapping the turkey breast in foil about an hour into the roasting process can help keep the meat juicy. However, be careful not to overdo it as this could prevent the skin from crisping up nicely. This is how Mary Berry makes her perfect roast turkey.
