How long does a 10 lb turkey take to cook in convection oven?

Convection ovens cook food significantly faster than traditional ovens due to the use of circulating hot air. Here's a general guideline for cooking a 10 lb turkey in a convection oven:

Preparation:

- Preheat the convection oven to 375° Fahrenheit (190° Celsius).

- Thaw the turkey completely if frozen.

- Remove any giblets from the turkey's cavity and rinse it thoroughly inside and out with cold water.

- Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.

- Season the turkey inside and out with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs and spices.

Cooking Time:

- The general rule of thumb for cooking turkey in a convection oven is to reduce the cooking time by 25% compared to traditional oven times.

- Therefore, for a 10 lb turkey, the estimated cooking time in a convection oven would be around 2-2.5 hours.

- To ensure accuracy, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. The turkey is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165° Fahrenheit (74° Celsius) in the thickest part of the thigh.

Important Tips:

- Make sure to check the manufacturer's guidelines for your convection oven, as cooking times may vary slightly.

- Since convection ovens circulate hot air, it is essential to baste the turkey periodically to prevent drying out. You can use melted butter, cooking oil, or a mixture of herbs, spices, and liquid to baste the turkey.

- Allow the turkey to rest before carving. Cover it with foil or a kitchen towel and let it stand for about 15-20 minutes, which allows the juices to redistribute for a more flavorful and tender result.

Remember that cooking times can vary depending on the specific oven model, the exact weight of the turkey, and personal preferences for doneness. It's always a good idea to keep a close eye on the turkey during the cooking process and adjust the time as needed.