4 Ways to cook a Thanksgiving turkey

The tradition of preparing and feasting on a Thanksgiving meal dates to the 17th century, when the first European settlers arrived on these shores. Although Thanksgiving Day celebrations vary by region, family, and personal preference, eating turkey is a custom shared by 95% of the population, according to the National Turkey Federation.


Roast Turkey
The roast turkey is a simple and traditional dish that many Americans prepare for their Thanksgiving feast. Roast turkeys are often flavored with a rub, typically a wet or dry mixture of ingredients, which can vary from region to region in the United States. In the Northeast, salt-encrusted roast turkey and savory herb roast turkey are common. In Hawaii, coffee rubbed and pineapple mustard roast turkey is popular.


Grilled Turkey
Grilled turkey for Thanksgiving combines two American traditions: barbeque and turkey. After marinating the bird overnight in the refrigerator, cut it into four sections, remove the breast bone, and place it on the grill, flipping occasionally until it is cooked through and ready for a delicious Thanksgiving meal.


Smoked Turkey
Smoked turkey is a more flavorful and tender way to prepare turkey than roasting. There are plenty of recipes for smoking the perfect bird, but a good rule of thumb is to choose a turkey in the 12 lb range; larger birds will take much longer to cook, which can be detrimental to tenderness and flavor.


Fried Turkey
Fried Turkey is often called "New Orleans fried turkey" because the tradition originated in Louisiana. Small turkeys, usually eight to ten pounds, are used for frying. The entire bird is lowered into a vat of hot oil and cooked until crispy and golden brown. It won't take long; fried turkeys typically cook fast, about three minutes for each pound.