How Long to Smoke a 20 lb Spatchcock Turkey
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and I can’t wait to dig into a juicy, flavorful turkey. This year, I’m trying something new: spatchcocking. Spatchcocking is a great way to cook a turkey because it helps the bird cook faster and more evenly. Plus, it makes the turkey easier to carve. I know, I know, it sounds a little intimidating, but I promise it’s easy. I’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from how to spatchcock a turkey to how long to smoke it.
So, what is spatchcocking? Spatchcocking is a technique where you remove the turkey’s backbone and flatten it out. This allows the turkey to cook more evenly and quickly. To spatchcock a turkey, you’ll need a sharp knife and a pair of kitchen shears. First, remove the turkey’s giblets and neck. Then, place the turkey breast-side down on a cutting board. Use the knife to cut along one side of the backbone, starting at the neck and ending at the tail. Repeat on the other side. Then, use the kitchen shears to cut out the backbone. Finally, flip the turkey over and press down on the breastbone to flatten it out.
Smoking the Turkey
Now that you’ve spatchcocked the turkey, it’s time to smoke it. You’ll need a smoker, wood chips, and a meat thermometer. First, preheat your smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes. Once the wood chips are soaked, add them to the smoker box. Place the turkey on the smoker grate and insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. Smoke the turkey for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 30 minutes before carving.
Tips and Expert Advice
Here are a few tips and expert advice to help you smoke a perfect turkey:
- Use a sharp knife and kitchen shears to spatchcock the turkey. A dull knife will make the process more difficult and time-consuming.
- Don’t overcook the turkey. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If you overcook the turkey, it will be dry and tough.
- Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the turkey, making it more moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Here are a few frequently asked questions about smoking a spatchcock turkey:
- Q: How long does it take to smoke a 20 lb spatchcock turkey?
A: It takes about 3-4 hours to smoke a 20 lb spatchcock turkey at 225 degrees Fahrenheit. - Q: What type of wood chips should I use?
A: You can use any type of wood chips you like. However, I recommend using a mild-flavored wood, such as apple or pecan. - Q: Can I smoke a turkey in the rain?
A: Yes, you can smoke a turkey in the rain. However, you may need to adjust the smoking time, as the rain can make the turkey cook more slowly.
Conclusion
Smoking a spatchcock turkey is a great way to enjoy a delicious, juicy turkey. It’s a relatively easy process, and it’s a great way to impress your friends and family. So, if you’re looking for a new way to cook turkey, give spatchcocking a try.
Do you have any questions about smoking a spatchcock turkey? Leave a comment below and I’ll be happy to help.
