Kitchen Tips and Hacks: How to Truss a Turkey

Overview

Trussing a turkey may sound like an intimidating task, but it’s a simple and effective way to ensure your bird cooks evenly while looking beautifully presented. By properly tying the legs and wings, you prevent the tips from burning and allow the turkey to roast to perfection. Plus, trussing helps keep everything snug and intact, resulting in a delicious, juicy roast with an attractive presentation. Whether you're preparing a holiday feast or a Sunday dinner, mastering this skill will elevate your turkey game.

Why Trussing a Turkey is Important

✔ Even Cooking – Helps the turkey cook uniformly by holding the legs and wings close to the body.
✔ Prevents Drying – Keeps the wings from overcooking and the bird from drying out.
✔ Aesthetically Pleasing – A neatly trussed turkey looks beautiful on the table and makes carving easier.
✔ No Wing Flare – Prevents the wing tips from burning while ensuring the bird stays together during roasting.

Steps to Truss a Turkey 

Step 1: Secure the Legs

Start by taking a piece of kitchen twine. Tie the legs together by looping the twine around them several times so that the legs stay securely in place. Once the legs are tightly held, tie the twine into a knot to make sure they don’t loosen during cooking. This prevents the turkey’s cavity from opening up and ensures a juicy roast.

Step 2: Tuck the Wings

Next, gently twist each wing so the tip of each wing tucks under the neck cavity of the bird. You may need to use a little force to get the wings into place. The weight of the turkey will naturally hold the wings in this position as it roasts. This keeps the tips from burning and ensures even cooking for the entire bird.

Step 3: Season and Prepare

Once your turkey is trussed, season it according to your preferred recipe. Whether you’re using a dry rub, butter, or marinades, apply the seasonings evenly. Then, proceed with cooking the turkey according to your recipe directions, ensuring it cooks to golden-brown perfection.

Pro Tips for Trussing a Turkey

- Use the Right Twine – Make sure to use kitchen twine (not regular string), as it’s food-safe and sturdy.
- Start with a Cold Bird – Trussing works best if the turkey is cold. It will be easier to handle and secure the wings and legs.
- Make It Tight – Don’t be afraid to pull the twine snugly to hold everything together. Just be sure not to over-tighten, as you don’t want to cut into the bird.

Final Thoughts

Trussing a turkey might seem like an extra step, but it’s well worth the effort. Not only does it help cook the bird more evenly, but it also ensures the turkey looks beautiful when it’s time to serve. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to confidently truss your turkey and roast it to perfection—impressing your guests and enjoying a delicious meal!