Are there any differences between preparing/cooking a turkey that was labeled "basted with real butter" vs a regular turkey?
I've roasted numerous turkeys numerous ways, but never bought a turkey that was basted with butter. I've always just bought a regular turkey, usually I brine it, and then roast it. I've always had great results. As I've never thought to buy one, I've never given it any thought.
I got this turkey for free and am wondering any considerations I need to account for with this pre-basted turkey? What would happen if I brined it?
Edit: Here's the actual product: http://www.presidentschoice.ca/en_CA/products/productlisting/pc_young_turkey_basted_with_real_butter19732.html
Best Answer
Chances are most likely that it will be just fine. I suspect the brine process will "wash away" a lot of the butter stuff. I've worked in a meat shop before and the only concern I've ever heard expressed about them is dairy allergy, so do keep that in mind. Otherwise, I would (and have) just cook them as you are used to.
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What is the difference between pre basted and fresh turkey?
This decision is purely based on preference. There are no hard and fast guides. However, there are some differences to note. Pre-basted turkeys are juicer and extra tender, making them often preferred over their natural siblings.Is a basted turkey better?
Although we like to think that basting the turkey will add moisture and flavor to the meat, it doesn't really contribute much of either. It does, however, keep the skin from drying out, in addition to giving the bird a lovely copper hue.What does it mean if a turkey is basted?
Basting means spooning, squirting or brushing the juices that are in the roasting tin back over the meat as it cooks, or laying something over it that will release fat as it cooks.Has a basted turkey been brined?
When buying a pre basted turkey the wrapper should inform you with a percentage of basting that was injected in the turkey. This is basically telling you that the turkey has already been brined in which it is brined from the inside out and no other form of brine is necessary with a pre basted turkey.More answers regarding are there any differences between preparing/cooking a turkey that was labeled "basted with real butter" vs a regular turkey?
Answer 2
It's not a big no-no, but it's a small no-no. Brining is not likely to make your turkey much more flavorful (at least not in a positive way), because it has most likely already been brined. We can be sure if you post label info. Additional brining is likely to make it over salty. Butterball brand is of this type, brining will do nothing but make it saltier.
That's not to say that pre-brined turkeys are equivalent to fresh turkeys you brine yourself. They aren't. The best birds are purchased untreated, and brined within a couple of days of cooking.
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