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THAWING A TURKEY 
Thawing a turkey in the refrigerator is the preferred method, but if you have a deep cooler, it can be filled with cold water and the turkey can be submerged (leave it wrapped) until it has thawed substantially.

Thawing Timetable for a Whole Turkey:

8 to 12 lbs....1 to 2 days
12 to 16 lbs...2 to 3 days
16 to 20 lbs...3 to 4 days
20 to 24 lbs...4 to 5 days

If you are in a cold climate, put the cooler outdoors, otherwise add enough ice periodically to keep the water cold.

The turkey should be kept cold until ready to roast; the center inside of the turkey can still be frozen slightly, but thawed enough to remove the giblets, etc.

 

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