Thawing a turkey properly is one of the most important safety steps in holiday cooking — and the step most people get wrong. A turkey that’s not fully defrosted will cook unevenly and can even become unsafe to eat. This guide breaks down the two safest thawing methods: 🥶 Refrigerator Thawing: The safest and easiest method — but it takes time. Plan for 24 hours per 5 lbs, keep the turkey wrapped, and place it in a shallow container to catch juices. 💧 Cold Water Thawing: A faster option — 30 min