Trash Can Turkey Recipe
Description:
Looking for an unconventional yet incredibly fun way to cook your turkey? Look no further than Trash Can Turkey! This alternative method is not only a blast to prepare but also serves as a fantastic conversation starter at your next cookout or gathering. 🦃🔥
Cook Time: 3 hours
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 1
Category: Poultry
Keywords: Meat, Weeknight, < 4 Hours, Easy
Ingredients:
- 1 turkey (size depending on your preference)
Directions:
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Start the Charcoal: Begin by lighting up approximately 20 pounds of charcoal. You’ll want a nice, hot bed of coals for this recipe, so give them ample time to ignite and reach the desired temperature.
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Prepare the Cooking Area: While the charcoal is heating, line the ground beneath your cooking area with aluminum foil. Make sure to extend it at least 10 inches beyond the diameter of the trash can to catch any drippings and prevent any mishaps.
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Position the Turkey: Once the charcoal is ready, it’s time to prepare the turkey. Take your turkey and position it on a stake so that it hangs approximately 2 inches off the ground, with the legs pointing downward. This positioning allows for even cooking and ensures a succulent end result.
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Season the Turkey: Now comes the fun part – seasoning! Rub your desired seasonings generously into the turkey’s skin, ensuring that every inch is coated with flavor. Feel free to get creative here and tailor the seasonings to your taste preferences.
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Assemble the Trash Can: With the turkey prepped and seasoned, it’s time to assemble the makeshift oven. Take your clean trash can and place it upside down over the turkey, ensuring that it covers the entire bird completely.
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Arrange the Charcoal: Carefully shovel the hot charcoal around the outside of the trash can, creating a ring of heat that will cook the turkey to perfection. Additionally, add enough charcoal to form a single layer on top of the inverted can, ensuring consistent heat distribution throughout the cooking process.
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Maintain Heat: To ensure even cooking and maintain the desired temperature, continue adding charcoal as needed throughout the cooking process. A steady heat source is crucial for achieving tender, juicy turkey.
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Check for Doneness: After approximately 2 1/2 hours, it’s time to check on the turkey. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that it has reached the recommended internal temperature for safe consumption. Additional cooking time may be required depending on the size of the turkey and external factors such as wind.
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Capture Juices: For an added touch of flavor and moisture, consider placing a bundt pan beneath the turkey, slid down the stake before positioning the bird. This will catch any drippings, allowing you to baste the turkey and infuse it with rich, savory juices.
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Alternative Stake Option: If you don’t have a wooden stake on hand, fear not! You can also use a steel rod with a crosspiece welded to the top, resembling a long-legged T. This alternative stake provides stability and ensures that the turkey cooks evenly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the turkey reaches the desired level of doneness, carefully remove it from the trash can and stake. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before carving into succulent slices. Serve alongside your favorite sides and enjoy the unique flavors of Trash Can Turkey with friends and family!
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 0
- Fat Content: 0g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 0mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 0g
- Fiber Content: 0g
- Sugar Content: 0g
- Protein Content: 0g
Embrace the unconventional with this Trash Can Turkey recipe and elevate your next outdoor cooking experience to new heights of flavor and fun! 🎉🍗
