Can youstart a turkey cooking and then turn the oven off for couple of hours restart?

* Food Safety: Turning off the oven interrupts the cooking process, allowing the internal temperature of the turkey to drop. This creates a "danger zone" between 40°F and 140°F where bacteria can rapidly multiply.

* Uneven Cooking: When you restart the oven, it takes time for the temperature to come back up. This can lead to uneven cooking and potentially undercooked areas.

* Dry Meat: The longer the turkey sits at a lower temperature, the more moisture it loses, leading to dry, tough meat.

Instead, here are safer alternatives:

* Use a slow cooker: Slow cookers are ideal for cooking turkeys because they maintain a consistent low temperature, ensuring even cooking and juicy results.

* Cook in stages: You can cook the turkey for a shorter period, then let it rest for a few hours before finishing the cooking process. This allows the internal temperature to stabilize and helps to prevent overcooking.

* Use a meat thermometer: Always check the internal temperature of the turkey with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

Remember, food safety is paramount. Don't risk your health and your family's safety by interrupting the cooking process.