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Do You Have to Tie Turkey Legs Together

Do You Have to Tie Turkey Legs Together?

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Last Updated on November 20, 2022 by Lauren Beck

If you’re wondering whether you should tie your turkey’s legs together, the answer is: it depends. There are benefits to both tying and not tying the legs, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.

If you do choose to tie the legs together, it can help the turkey cook more evenly. This is because when the legs are tied, they act as a sort of “tripod” that keeps the bird stable in the roasting pan. This allows heat to circulate more evenly around the turkey, resulting in more even cooking.

On the other hand, some people prefer not to tie the legs because they feel it makes the turkey less attractive when it’s cooked. Additionally, not tying the legs gives the turkey more room to expand as it cooks, which some people feel results in a juicier bird.

Why Tie the Legs Together?

  1. It helps the turkey cook more evenly.
  2. It keeps the turkey stable in the roasting pan.
  3. It allows heat to circulate more evenly around the turkey.
  4. It makes the turkey less attractive when it’s cooked.
  5. It gives the turkey more room to expand as it cooks.

How To Truss a Turkey?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to trussing a turkey:

  1. Place the turkey breast side up on a cutting board.
  2. Cross the legs at the ankles and tie them together with kitchen twine.
  3. Tuck the wings under the body of the turkey.
  4. Lift the skin at the neck end of the turkey and insert your hand between the skin and the meat.
  5. Grab hold of the wishbone with your fingers and pull it out.
  6. Cut off the excess skin at the neck end of the turkey.
  7. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine.
  8. Truss the turkey by tying kitchen twine around the body of the bird.
  9. Cut off any excess twine.
  10. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast according to your recipe instructions.

How To Tie Turkey Legs Together Without Twine?

the legs of the roasted turkey has been tied together

There are a few different ways that you can tie turkey legs together without twine. You can use butcher’s knot, tape, or even zip ties.

  • Butcher’s knot: This is the most common way to tie turkey legs together. First, make a loop with the butcher’s twine and then tie a simple overhand knot. Next, take the tail of the twine and make a second loop. Finally, tie another overhand knot.
  • Tape: You can also use tape to tie turkey legs together. Simply wrap the tape around the legs, making sure to overlap the edges.
  • Zip ties: Another option is to use zip ties. Just thread the zip tie through the legs and then pull it tight. You can trim the excess zip tie if necessary.

Do I Need To Take the Clamp Off Turkey Legs Before Cooking?

No, you do not need to take the clamp off turkey legs before cooking. The clamp is there to keep the legs together while the turkey cooks. Once the turkey is cooked, you can remove the clamp and separate the legs.

What Temperature Will the Turkey Be Done?

The turkey is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit [1]. To check the turkey’s internal temperature, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, making sure not to touch the bone.

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What Can I Use Instead of Cooking String?

If you don’t have cooking string, you can use other things to tie the turkey legs together. Some options include:

  • Twine
  • Tape
  • Zip ties
  • Butcher’s knot

What Kind of String Do You Use For Turkey?

There are a few different types of string that you can use for turkey. The most common type is kitchen twine. This is a sturdy cotton twine that is designed for cooking. You can also use butcher’s twine, which is a similar product.

Can I Use a Rubber Band to Tie Turkey Legs Together?

Yes, you can use a rubber band to tie turkey legs together. Just make sure that the rubber band is made of food-grade material and that it is clean. You should also avoid using a rubber band that is too tight, as this could cause the skin to tear.

Conclusion

No, you do not have to tie turkey legs together. Some people do it for aesthetic reasons, while others believe it helps the turkey cook more evenly. If you decide to tie the legs together, there are a few different ways that you can do it. You can use kitchen twine, tape, or even zip ties. Just make sure that the turkey is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before removing it from the oven.

Reference:

  1. https://www.seriouseats.com/how-to-take-the-temperature-of-your-turkey-video
Lauren Beck
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