Health Canada's advice is a little different from what you'll see on American websites, especially the finishing temperature. Here's what to use for a Canadian Christmas turkey.
How long to thaw a turkey (Health Canada)
Thaw in the fridge, allowing 24 hours for every 2.5 kg (5 lb).
| Turkey weight | Thawing time (24 h per 2.5 kg) | Move to the fridge at least |
|---|---|---|
| 4 kg (about 9 lb) | about 1.6 days | 2 days |
| 5 kg (about 11 lb) | about 2.0 days | 2 days |
| 6 kg (about 13 lb) | about 2.4 days | 3 days |
| 7 kg (about 15 lb) | about 2.8 days | 3 days |
| 8 kg (about 18 lb) | about 3.2 days | 4 days |
| 9 kg (about 20 lb) | about 3.6 days | 4 days |
| 10 kg (about 22 lb) | about 4.0 days | 4 days |
Safe internal temperature
- Whole bird: 82°C (180°F), measured in the thickest part of the breast with a digital food thermometer that isn't touching bone.
- Pieces and stuffing cooked separately: 74°C (165°F).
Because 82°C is higher than the 165°F target used in the US, allow extra time beyond US roasting charts and rely on the thermometer.
Stuffing
Cook it separately to 74°C (165°F), or stuff the bird loosely just before roasting and remove the stuffing as soon as the bird reaches 82°C (180°F).
Plan it in minutes
The Christmas Dinner Planner Canada uses Health Canada's thawing rule and adds a safety buffer for the 82°C target. Type the weight and dinner time to get the thaw date, oven time and a clock time for every dish.
See the Christmas Dinner Planner Canada →