Good for you, good for your grill / Jennie-O Turkey Store

Tips & Techniques:

When selecting a whole turkey for grilling, it is best to choose one that is not too large. A 16-pound turkey is the largest size that is safe to grill. The grilling process does not allow the internal temperature of larger turkeys to reach a sufficient temperature quickly enough to destroy harmful bacteria within a safe time period. A smaller turkey is also easier to handle when moving and turning it on the grilling surface.

Understanding the two most popular grilling styles, Direct and Indirect, is essential to creating a perfectly grilled entrée. There are instances when both Direct and Indirect methods are appropriate. The Direct method sears the food in order to create a flavorful crust on the surface, followed by Indirect to prevent burning outside of the food while cooking evenly. The following is a quick reference for cooking method and approximate cooking time for Turkey.

When Indirect grilling, remember to keep lid down, opening can add from 10-15 minutes onto grilling time.

Do not use a fork to turn the meat as you are grilling. The piercing causes the juices to escape. A long-handled spatula or tong is more appropriate.

Oil grates with no-stick spray (or brush oil on grates) before starting grill to prevent food from sticking.

Safe Internal Temperatures

Keep yourself, friends, and family safe from food-borne illness. To accurately check temperature, the thermometer must be stuck through the thickest part of the meat and away from any bones (bones conduct heat).

Poultry is generally safe at 160º, though waiting until it reaches 180º is recommended.


Cooking Times:

½ Turkey Breast (2 lb.) - Indirect 1-1¼ hours Medium heat to prevent drying out. Keep grill covered.

Turkey Drumstick (½ lb.) - Indirect 1-1½ hours.

Turkey, whole (unstuffed) - Indirect 20-25 minutes per pound Use medium heat to prevent drying out. Keep grill covered.

Turkey Burger ½ inch thick - Direct 4-6 minutes each side.


Facts about Turkey

Of all the things you can put on your grill, turkey may be the most pleasant surprise. You may have noticed turkey in the headlines recently, being touted as one of several distinct “superfoods,” along with items such as blueberries, broccoli, spinach, olive oil, yogurt and others. These “superfoods” contain a high level of key nutrients when compared to their caloric count. The micronutrients in these foods are the nutritional equivalent of “rust prevention for human bodies,” according to Dr. Steven Pratt, author of the New York Times bestseller, SuperFoods Rx: Fourteen Foods That Will Change Your Life.

So, why does turkey qualify as a “superfood?” For starters, it’s an excellent source of lean protein, which your body needs in order to sustain energy. But beyond that, turkey also provides a wide array of essential vitamins and minerals: riboflavin (helps break down carbohydrates and fats to produce energy), niacin (helps lower cholesterol), vitamin B6 (helps the body produce serotonin, an anti-depressant), vitamin B12 (helps regenerate red blood cells), folic acid (helps protect against birth defects), iron (helps blood and muscles supply oxygen to the body), zinc (aids in the healing process) and selenium (anti-oxidant that fights the effects of aging). Wow. No wonder Benjamin Franklin wanted to make the turkey our country’s national symbol.

OK, so turkey is good for you. It also tastes great, and works well in all kinds of recipes. When it comes to grilling, Jennie-O Turkey Store is making it easier than ever, with great new ideas. If you’re looking to add some life to your grill, look for JENNIE-O TURKEY STORE® Marinated Turkey Tenderloins. They come in great flavors, ready to go straight on the grill. And they cook up moist and tender every time. Put them on kabobs, on your favorite pasta, or on a refreshing salad and rediscover the great taste of turkey in exciting new ways. Our Grilled Turkey and Vegetable Kabobs are just one way to turn an ordinary cookout into an extraordinary meal.

And when it comes to the grill’s “Old Faithful” – burgers – why settle for ordinary? JENNIE-O TURKEY STORE® Lean Ground Turkey is another way to get the benefits – and the great taste – of turkey, hot off the grill. You can add some backyard zest and flavor with our Southwest Turkey Burger on Texas Toast, topped with fresh salsa, or go tropical with our Hawaiian Style Burger.

With turkey recipes from Jennie-O Turkey Store, it’s easy to be creative while making grilling fun. Look for great grilling recipes at http://jennieoturkeystore.com.

Look for JENNIE-O TURKEY STORE® Marinated Turkey Tenderloins and Lean Ground Turkey in your grocer’s refrigerated meat case, and keep your grill fired up all season long.

Featured Recipe: Indian Spiced Roast Turkey

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