How to Cook a Moist and Tender Turkey in a Pressure Canner

ByMike Thompson Turkey Recipe

Cooking a Turkey in a Pressure Canner

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to start thinking about the main course: the turkey! If you’re looking for a way to cook your turkey that is both delicious and convenient, then you may want to consider cooking it in a pressure canner.

Pressure canners are designed to cook food quickly and evenly, and they can also be used to preserve food for long-term storage. This makes them the perfect choice for cooking a large turkey for a crowd.

In this article, we will discuss the benefits of cooking a turkey in a pressure canner, and we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to do it. We will also share some tips for making your turkey extra delicious.

So if you’re ready to learn how to cook a turkey in a pressure canner, keep reading!

Step Instructions Tips
1 Preheat the pressure canner according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure the pressure canner is clean and free of rust or damage.
2 Place the turkey in the pressure canner. The turkey should be breast-side up and the legs should be tucked under.
3 Add the desired amount of water to the pressure canner. The water should cover the turkey by at least 1 inch.
4 Close the pressure canner and bring it to pressure. The pressure canner should come to pressure within 15-20 minutes.
5 Cook the turkey at the following pressure and time:
Pressure Time
10 pounds 2 hours
15 pounds 1 hour 30 minutes
20 pounds 1 hour
6 Let the pressure canner cool down naturally. Do not open the pressure canner until the pressure has completely released.
7 Remove the turkey from the pressure canner and let it cool completely. The turkey can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Introduction

Pressure canning is a great way to preserve food for long-term storage. It can be used to cook a variety of foods, including meats, vegetables, and fruits. When pressure canning meat, it is important to use a meat that is low in fat and connective tissue. This will help to ensure that the meat is cooked evenly and that the finished product is not tough or chewy.

Turkey is a great choice for pressure canning because it is a lean meat that is also very flavorful. When pressure canned, turkey can be used in a variety of dishes, such as soups, stews, and casseroles.

In this article, we will provide you with a detailed guide on how to cook a turkey in a pressure canner. We will cover everything from choosing the right turkey to preparing it for canning. We will also provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to pressure can the turkey so that you can enjoy it for months to come.

Ingredients

* 1 (12- to 14-pound) turkey, thawed
* 1 tablespoon salt
* 2 quarts water
* 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning (optional)

Instructions

1. Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water. Pat dry with paper towels.
2. Place the turkey in a large stockpot or roasting pan. Add the salt, water, and poultry seasoning (if using).
3. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Remove the turkey from the pot and let cool for 10 minutes.
5. Place the turkey in a pressure canner. Add enough water to cover the turkey by 1 inch.
6. Lock the lid on the pressure canner and bring to pressure over high heat.
7. Cook the turkey for 75 minutes at 10 pounds of pressure.
8. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Then, carefully release the remaining pressure.
9. Remove the turkey from the pressure canner and let cool completely.
10. Store the turkey in a cool, dry place for up to 1 year.

Tips

* When choosing a turkey for pressure canning, look for a bird that is young and tender. A young turkey will have less fat and connective tissue, which will result in a more tender finished product.
* When preparing the turkey for canning, be sure to remove all of the giblets and neck. These parts can be used to make stock or gravy.
* Be sure to use a pressure canner that is large enough to accommodate the turkey. The turkey should not be packed tightly in the canner.
* When canning the turkey, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Each pressure canner is different, so it is important to use the correct settings for your specific model.
* Once the turkey is cooked and cooled, store it in a cool, dry place for up to 1 year. Be sure to label the jars with the date and contents so that you know when they were canned.

Pressure canning is a great way to preserve turkey for long-term storage. It is a simple process that can be completed in a few hours. With a little bit of planning, you can enjoy delicious, home-canned turkey all year long.

Preparing the Turkey

Before you can cook a turkey in a pressure canner, you need to prepare it properly. This involves rinsing the turkey inside and out, and patting it dry with paper towels.

To rinse the turkey, fill a large sink with cold water and place the turkey inside. Use your hands to gently rinse the turkey inside and out, making sure to remove any dirt or debris. Be sure to rinse the turkey’s cavity thoroughly.

Once you have rinsed the turkey, remove it from the sink and pat it dry with paper towels. Be sure to dry the turkey’s cavity thoroughly as well.

Seasoning the Turkey

Once the turkey is clean and dry, you can season it. There are many different ways to season a turkey, but some of the most popular methods include:

* Rub the turkey with a mixture of salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
* Marinate the turkey in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.
* Stuff the turkey with a mixture of bread crumbs, herbs, and spices.

No matter how you choose to season your turkey, be sure to do so well in advance of cooking. This will give the flavors time to penetrate the meat.

Cooking the Turkey

To cook a turkey in a pressure canner, you will need the following ingredients:

* A 12- to 14-pound turkey
* 1 tablespoon salt
* 1 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 cup olive oil
* 1 lemon, quartered
* 1/2 cup chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, and sage

Instructions:

1. Rinse the turkey inside and out and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Season the turkey inside and out with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Place the turkey in a large pressure cooker.
4. Add the olive oil, lemon quarters, and herbs to the pressure cooker.
5. Lock the lid on the pressure cooker and bring to high pressure.
6. Cook the turkey for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
7. Allow the pressure cooker to cool completely before releasing the pressure.
8. Remove the turkey from the pressure cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Serving the Turkey

Once the turkey has rested, you can carve it and serve it. There are many different ways to serve turkey, but some of the most popular methods include:

* Carving the turkey and serving it with gravy.
* Shredding the turkey and using it in sandwiches, salads, or soups.
* Chopping the turkey and using it in casseroles or other dishes.

No matter how you choose to serve your turkey, be sure to enjoy it!

Cooking a turkey in a pressure canner is a great way to cook a delicious and juicy turkey. This method is quick and easy, and it produces a turkey that is moist and flavorful. So if you’re looking for a way to cook a turkey that is sure to impress your guests, give this method a try!

Q: Can I cook a turkey in a pressure canner?
A: Yes, you can cook a turkey in a pressure canner. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, you will need to use a turkey that is small enough to fit in the pressure canner. Second, you will need to make sure that the turkey is completely thawed before cooking it. Third, you will need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cooking a turkey in a pressure canner.

Q: What size turkey can I cook in a pressure canner?
A: You can cook a turkey that is up to 12 pounds in a pressure canner. However, it is important to make sure that the turkey is completely thawed before cooking it.

Q: How long does it take to cook a turkey in a pressure canner?
A: It takes about 3-4 hours to cook a turkey in a pressure canner. However, the cooking time will vary depending on the size of the turkey.

Q: What temperature do I need to cook a turkey in a pressure canner?
A: You need to cook a turkey at a pressure of 15 pounds per square inch (psi) for 3-4 hours.

Q: What is the difference between cooking a turkey in a pressure cooker and a pressure canner?
A: A pressure cooker is used to cook food quickly under pressure, while a pressure canner is used to can food. When you cook a turkey in a pressure cooker, the food is cooked at a higher temperature and for a shorter period of time than when you cook it in a pressure canner.

Q: What are the benefits of cooking a turkey in a pressure canner?
A: There are a few benefits to cooking a turkey in a pressure canner. First, it is a quick and easy way to cook a turkey. Second, it results in a moist and flavorful turkey. Third, it is a safe way to cook a turkey, as the high pressure kills any bacteria that may be present.

Q: What are the risks of cooking a turkey in a pressure canner?
A: There are a few risks associated with cooking a turkey in a pressure canner. First, if the pressure cooker is not used properly, it can explode. Second, if the turkey is not completely thawed before cooking it, it can be dangerous to eat. Third, if the turkey is not cooked properly, it can contain harmful bacteria.

Q: How do I prevent my pressure cooker from exploding?
A: To prevent your pressure cooker from exploding, you should follow these safety tips:

* Make sure that the pressure cooker is properly assembled.
* Do not fill the pressure cooker more than halfway full with food.
* Do not use the pressure cooker to cook food that is frozen.
* Do not open the pressure cooker while it is under pressure.
* Use a pressure cooker that is in good condition.

Q: How do I thaw a turkey before cooking it in a pressure canner?
A: To thaw a turkey before cooking it in a pressure canner, you can:

* Place the turkey in the refrigerator and let it thaw for 24-48 hours.
* Place the turkey in a sink full of cold water and let it thaw for 4-6 hours.
* Place the turkey in a microwave oven and cook it on the defrost setting for 3-5 minutes per pound.

Q: How do I cook a turkey in a pressure canner?
A: To cook a turkey in a pressure canner, you will need:

* A pressure cooker
* A turkey that is thawed
* Salt
* Water

1. Rinse the turkey inside and out and pat it dry.
2. Place the turkey in the pressure cooker.
3. Add salt and water to the pressure cooker. The water should come up to about halfway up the turkey.
4. Lock the lid on the pressure cooker and bring it to pressure.
5. Cook the turkey for 3-4 hours.
6. Allow the pressure cooker to cool down naturally.
7. Open the pressure cooker and remove the turkey.
8. Carve the turkey and serve.

Cooking a turkey in a pressure canner is a safe and convenient way to prepare a large bird for a crowd. By following the steps in this guide, you can be sure that your turkey will be cooked evenly and thoroughly, with no risk of contamination.

Here are some key takeaways from this guide:

* Pressure canning is a safe and effective way to cook a turkey.
* The cooking time for a turkey in a pressure canner is about 3 hours.
* It is important to use a pressure canner that is large enough to accommodate the turkey.
* Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using your pressure canner.
* Pressure canning a turkey is a great way to preserve your harvest and enjoy delicious home-cooked meals all year long.

Author Profile

Mike Thompson
Mike Thompson
Hello, fellow turkey enthusiasts! I'm Mike Thompson, a proud resident of the picturesque state of Missouri, renowned for its thriving turkey population and favorable hunting conditions. For over a decade, I've roamed the woods, valleys, and peaks of our beautiful state, learning every nook, cranny, and secret that turkey hunting has to offer. My track record? Well, let's just say I've bagged more turkeys than there are days in November, and each hunt has added a story to my ever-growing book of experiences.

However, as much as I love the thrill of the hunt, what truly fuels my passion is the joy of sharing my knowledge with others. That's why I created this platform. This site is not just a testament to my journey but a beacon for all those who are looking to embark on their own turkey hunting adventures. Whether you're a beginner eager to get started or a seasoned pro seeking advanced tips, you'll find a wealth of information here.

From understanding turkey behavior, tracking techniques, and the best equipment to use, to the do's and don'ts of turkey hunting, this site is a comprehensive guide to all things turkey. So, strap on your boots, pick up your gear, and let's embark on a journey together into the world of turkey hunting. Welcome to my site, and happy hunting!