How Long to Cook Trash Can Turkey for a Juicy and Flavorful Holiday Delight

Have you ever thought about cooking a turkey in a trash can? It might sound odd, but this unique method can lead to a juicy and flavorful bird that’ll impress your friends and family. If you’re curious about how to pull it off, you’re in the right place.

Overview Of Trash Can Turkey

Trash can turkey refers to a cooking method that uses an empty, clean trash can as a makeshift oven. This technique creates a unique and flavorful dish. The concept involves heating the can with charcoal, allowing for even cooking and a smoky flavor.

Equipment Needed

1. Trash Can: Use a standard metal trash can, at least 30 gallons, with no plastic lining.
2. Charcoal: Purchase high-quality charcoal for consistent heat.
3. Turkey: A 12 to 14-pound turkey is ideal for this method.
4. Chef’s Thermometer: To check internal temperatures.
5. Lid: Ensure the trash can has a lid that fits securely.

Preparation Steps

1. Seasoning: Season your turkey with your preferred rub or marinade. Marinate overnight for extra flavor.
2. Setup: Create a base with charcoal. Place a layer of charcoal in the bottom of the trash can.
3. Turkey Placement: Use a roasting rack or place the turkey directly on the charcoal. Ensure it sits above the hot coals but allows airflow.
4. Lid on Top: Place the lid on the trash can to trap heat and smoke.

Cooking Time

Cooking time varies based on the size of the turkey and how well the charcoal maintains heat. Typically, anticipate about 1.5 to 2 hours for a fully-cooked bird. Monitor the internal temperature, which should reach at least 165°F for safety.

• Avoid Opening: Limit opening the can to keep temperatures steady.
• Coal Maintenance: Add more charcoal as needed to maintain heat.
• Resting Period: Let the turkey rest for 15 to 20 minutes after cooking to retain juices.

Using a trash can for cooking turkey can lead to a deliciously juicy dish with a great smoky flavor. It’s an interesting way to impress guests at your next gathering.

Preparing For Trash Can Turkey

Preparing for trash can turkey involves gathering the right ingredients and equipment for a successful cook. By ensuring you have everything needed, you set the stage for an enjoyable cooking experience.

Ingredients Needed

• Turkey: Choose a 12 to 14-pound turkey for optimal fit and cooking.
• Seasoning: Use a mixture of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs like thyme and rosemary for flavor.
• Butter or Oil: Apply butter or oil under the skin for moisture and added taste.
• Broth or Marinade: Consider injecting broth or marinade for extra juiciness.

• Metal Trash Can: Use a clean, empty 30-gallon metal trash can. Ensure it’s free from any residues.
• Charcoal: Acquire high-quality charcoal for heating. Aim for about 3 to 4 pounds.
• Chef’s Thermometer: A reliable thermometer is crucial to check the turkey’s internal temperature.
• Secure Lid: A strong lid helps trap heat and maintain even cooking.
• A Few Bricks or Heavy Stones: Place these on top of the lid to prevent it from blowing off in the wind.

Gathering these ingredients and equipment makes the trash can turkey cooking process straightforward and enjoyable.

Cooking Process

The cooking process for trash can turkey combines unique techniques with straightforward steps. You’ll enjoy a flavorful, juicy turkey that enhances your gatherings.

Steps To Cook Trash Can Turkey

1. Prepare the Turkey: Season the turkey inside and out with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and your favorite herbs. Inject broth or marinade for added moisture. Rub butter or oil beneath the skin for extra juiciness.
2. Set Up Charcoal: Use about 3 to 4 pounds of high-quality charcoal. Light the charcoal and let it ash over until it’s glowing before placing it in the bottom of the trash can.
3. Place Turkey in the Can: Position the seasoned turkey on a raised rack or an inverted can inside the metal trash can to allow for even heat circulation.
4. Cover and Secure: Place the lid on the trash can, ensuring it fits tightly. Use bricks or heavy stones to hold it down, preventing heat escape.
5. Monitor Temperature: Insert a chef’s thermometer through a small hole in the can’s side, monitoring the internal temperature without opening the lid.
6. Rest the Turkey: After cooking, let the turkey rest for 15 to 30 minutes before carving. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist turkey.

Cooking Times And Temperatures

For trash can turkey, follow these cooking times and temperature guidelines:

Turkey Weight	Cooking Time	Minimum Internal Temperature
12-14 pounds	1.5 to 2 hours	165°F (74°C)

Use the thermometer to check the thickest part of the breast or thigh. If the temperature reads below 165°F, continue cooking until it reaches the safe temperature. Avoid opening the lid too often; this maintains consistent heat for thorough cooking.

Tips For Perfect Trash Can Turkey

1. Choose the Right Turkey Size

Pick a turkey that weighs between 12 to 14 pounds. This size ensures it fits comfortably in the trash can while cooking evenly throughout.

1. Season Generously

Rub the turkey inside and out with a mixture of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and your choice of herbs like thyme and rosemary. For added flavor, inject broth or marinade into the meat.

1. Use High-Quality Charcoal

Invest in good quality charcoal, around 3 to 4 pounds. Quality charcoal burns hotter and more evenly, improving the cooking process.

1. Set Up the Charcoal Properly

Arrange the charcoal in a pyramid shape and light it. Wait until the coals are glowing and covered in ash. This method provides consistent heat for cooking.

1. Place the Turkey on a Rack

Elevate the turkey using a raised rack inside the trash can. This setup allows air to circulate around the turkey, resulting in even cooking.

1. Secure the Lid Tightly

Use bricks or heavy stones to hold the lid in place. A tightly sealed lid prevents heat from escaping and helps achieve that smoky flavor.

1. Monitor Temperature Carefully

Use a chef’s thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey needs to reach 165°F for safe consumption. Avoid opening the trash can frequently to maintain heat.

1. Let It Rest After Cooking

After cooking, let the turkey rest for 15 to 30 minutes. This process allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist, flavorful meat.

1. Experiment with Wood Chips

Consider adding soaked wood chips to charcoal to enhance the smoky flavor. Use chips like hickory or applewood for different flavor profiles.

1. Stay Safe

Always ensure the trash can is clean and suitable for cooking. Safety is vital when using unconventional cooking methods.

By following these tips, you can achieve perfectly cooked trash can turkey that impresses at any gathering.

Conclusion

Cooking a turkey in a trash can might sound unconventional but it’s a fun and delicious way to impress your guests. With the right preparation and attention to detail you can achieve a juicy turkey infused with a delightful smoky flavor.

Remember to keep an eye on the internal temperature and let your turkey rest before serving. This method not only adds a unique twist to your cooking routine but also creates a memorable centerpiece for your gatherings. So grab your supplies and get ready to enjoy a delicious trash can turkey that’ll have everyone talking!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the trash can turkey cooking method?

The trash can cooking method involves using a clean, empty metal trash can to cook a turkey. By placing a charcoal base inside the can, it creates an even cooking environment and infuses the turkey with a delicious smoky flavor.

What equipment do I need for cooking turkey in a trash can?

You will need a standard metal trash can (at least 30 gallons), 3 to 4 pounds of high-quality charcoal, a 12 to 14-pound turkey, a chef’s thermometer, a secure lid, and some bricks or heavy stones to hold the lid in place.

How do I prepare the turkey for this method?

Season a 12 to 14-pound turkey with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs like thyme and rosemary. Apply butter or oil under the skin and consider injecting broth or marinade to enhance juiciness before cooking.

How long does it take to cook the turkey?

Cooking time generally ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours. It’s essential to monitor the internal temperature to reach at least 165°F for safety.

What tips can help make the best trash can turkey?

Choose a turkey weighing between 12 to 14 pounds for even cooking, season generously, and use high-quality charcoal. Elevate the turkey on a rack inside the can, secure the lid tightly, and let the turkey rest after cooking for maximum moisture retention.