How do you cook half frozen 22 lb turkey?

* Uneven Cooking: A half-frozen turkey will cook unevenly. The frozen parts will take longer to cook than the thawed parts, potentially leaving some areas undercooked while others are overcooked.

* Food Safety Risk: Undercooked poultry can harbor harmful bacteria like Salmonella, which can cause food poisoning.

* Difficulty with Temperature: It's difficult to get an accurate temperature reading with a partially frozen turkey, making it harder to ensure the bird is cooked through.

Instead of cooking a half-frozen turkey, follow these steps:

1. Thaw Properly: The safest way to thaw a turkey is in the refrigerator. Allow 24 hours for every 5 pounds of turkey.

2. Thaw in Cold Water: You can also thaw a turkey in cold water, but it's important to change the water every 30 minutes to ensure it stays cold.

3. Microwave Thaw (Not Recommended): While possible, it's not the ideal method as it can cook the turkey unevenly.

Once the turkey is fully thawed, follow these cooking guidelines:

* Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

* Roast Safely: Roast the turkey until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F (74°C).

* Rest: Let the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.

For a 22lb turkey, it will likely take around 3-4 hours to roast. Check the turkey frequently and adjust cooking time as needed.

Always follow safe food handling practices:

* Wash your hands and surfaces thoroughly before and after handling raw poultry.

* Keep raw poultry separate from other foods.

* Cook the turkey to the proper internal temperature.

* Refrigerate leftovers promptly.

By taking these precautions, you can enjoy a delicious and safe Thanksgiving feast.