How To Cook Turkey In Instant Pot

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How To Cook Turkey In Instant Pot

Easy and Delicious Turkey Recipe for Your Instant Pot

Are you ready to impress your family and friends with a perfectly cooked turkey this holiday season? Look no further! With the help of your trusty Instant Pot, you can cook a tender and flavorful turkey that will be the star of your dinner table. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of cooking a turkey in your Instant Pot and share some tips and tricks along the way.

Why Cook Turkey in an Instant Pot?

The Instant Pot has become a kitchen staple for many households due to its versatility and time-saving capabilities. When it comes to cooking a turkey, using an Instant Pot offers several advantages:

  • Rapid cooking: The Instant Pot uses high pressure to cook food quickly, reducing the cooking time for your turkey.
  • Moisture retention: The sealed environment of the Instant Pot helps to lock in the natural juices of the turkey, resulting in a moist and tender final product.
  • Flavor infusion: The pressure cooking process allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful turkey.

Ingredients:

To cook a turkey in your Instant Pot, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Seasonings of your choice (salt, pepper, garlic powder, herbs, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the turkey by removing the giblets and neck from the cavity. Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.

2. Rub the turkey with olive oil, ensuring that it is coated evenly. Season the turkey with your choice of seasonings, making sure to season both the outside and inside of the bird.

3. Pour the chicken broth into the Instant Pot and place the trivet inside.

4. Carefully place the seasoned turkey on the trivet, breast-side up. Make sure the turkey does NOT touch the liquid.

5. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the cooking mode to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook.” Adjust the cooking time to 6 minutes per pound of turkey.

6. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for 10-15 minutes. Then, perform a quick pressure release to fully release the pressure.

7. Carefully remove the lid and use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. It should be at least 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

8. Transfer the turkey to a cutting board and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.

Tips and Recommendations:

– If your turkey is too large to fit in your Instant Pot, you can use a smaller turkey or a portion of a larger turkey. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

– To enhance the flavor of your turkey, consider adding aromatics such as onions, garlic, or herbs to the Instant Pot before cooking.

– For a crispy skin, you can transfer the cooked turkey to a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for a few minutes.

– Don’t forget to save the drippings in the Instant Pot to make a delicious gravy to accompany your turkey.

So, this holiday season, save time and impress your loved ones with a flavorful and juicy turkey cooked in your Instant Pot. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious centerpiece for your holiday feast!

Share your tips and experiences on cooking turkey in the Instant Pot in our Kitchen Equipment forum section. Join the discussion on “How To Cook Turkey In Instant Pot” and let us know how it turned out!
FAQ:
Can I cook a whole turkey in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook a whole turkey in an Instant Pot. However, the size of the turkey will depend on the size of your Instant Pot. Be sure to choose a turkey that will fit comfortably inside your Instant Pot without exceeding the maximum fill line.
How long does it take to cook a turkey in an Instant Pot?
The cooking time of a turkey in an Instant Pot will vary depending on the size of the bird. As a general rule, you can estimate about 6 minutes per pound of turkey. For example, a 12-pound turkey would take approximately 72 minutes to cook.
Do I need to thaw the turkey before cooking it in an Instant Pot?
It is highly recommended to thaw your turkey before cooking it in an Instant Pot. Thawing the turkey ensures even cooking and reduces the risk of foodborne illness. Be sure to follow proper thawing guidelines by allowing the turkey to defrost in the refrigerator over a few days.
Should I use a trivet when cooking a turkey in an Instant Pot?
Yes, using a trivet is important when cooking a turkey in an Instant Pot. The trivet helps elevate the turkey, preventing it from sitting directly in the cooking liquid. This allows for better circulation of heat and helps avoid the turkey from becoming too watery.
How much liquid should I add to the Instant Pot when cooking a turkey?
When cooking a turkey in an Instant Pot, it is essential to add at least one cup of liquid. This can be water, broth, or a combination of both. The liquid creates steam necessary for pressure cooking and helps prevent the turkey from drying out.
Can I make gravy from the drippings in the Instant Pot after cooking the turkey?
Absolutely! The drippings from the turkey in the Instant Pot can be used to make a delicious gravy. Simply remove the turkey and set aside, then strain the liquid remaining in the Instant Pot. Place the liquid in a saucepan, bring it to a simmer, and thicken it with a roux or cornstarch slurry to create a flavorful gravy.
How do I ensure that the turkey is fully cooked and safe to eat?
To ensure the turkey is fully cooked and safe to eat, use a meat thermometer. The thickest part of the turkey, typically the thigh, should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Insert the thermometer into the meat without touching the bone. If the temperature has not been reached, continue cooking the turkey in the Instant Pot.

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