Christmas is less than two weeks away and if you’re on cooking duties this year you might be wondering what size turkey you need.
It can be a tough job being the chef on Christmas day so it’s important to ensure you’ve done everything you can to prepare.
If you’re having a fresh turkey this year, chances are you haven’t bought it yet, but you will need to order it soon.
Now the last thing you want to do is end up with a turkey that’s too small to go round everyone, but you also don’t want the disaster of buying one too big to fit in the oven. It really does happen.
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So before you head to the shop to buy your turkey this year, take a look at these weights, from the BBC Good Food Guide, which will help you decide what to buy. Don’t forget to go slightly bigger if you want plenty of leftovers for Boxing Day and beyond.
What size turkey do I need to buy?
- 2-2.5kg serves 4-6
- 3kg serves 6-7
- 3.5kg serves 7-8
- 4-4.5kg serves 8-10
- 5-5.5kg serves 10-12
- 6-6.5kg serves 12-15
How to tell your turkey is cooked
The easiest way to tell is by using a digital cooking thermometer. It should reach 70C when the turkey is cooked and you should insert the probe into different spots of the thigh and breast to ensure it is fully cooked throughout.
Without a thermometer, pierce the turkey leg and check the juices that emerge. If they run clear, the turkey is cooked, but if there is any blood it will need more time in the oven.
