Olivia Carter
Slow cooker is a convenient and popular method of cooking, especially when it comes to preparing turkey. Cooking a turkey crown in a slow cooker can be a great option for those who prefer a fuss-free cooking experience with delicious results. But how long does it actually take to cook a turkey crown in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for a turkey crown in a slow cooker can vary depending on the size of the crown and the specific slow cooker used. As a general rule of thumb, it is recommended to cook a turkey crown of around 2-3 kg for about 4-6 hours on the low setting of the slow cooker. This low and slow cooking method ensures that the turkey crown cooks evenly and retains its moisture, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
It is important to note that slow cookers can differ in their cooking capabilities, so it is always advisable to check the manufacturer’s instructions and follow the recommended cooking times and settings. Additionally, using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey crown is crucial to ensure that it is cooked through and safe to eat. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F) for the turkey crown to be fully cooked.
When cooking a turkey crown in a slow cooker, it is also important to consider the size and shape of the cooker itself. A slow cooker with a deep and narrow pot may cause the turkey crown to cook faster due to the limited space for the heat to circulate. In this case, it is recommended to reduce the cooking time slightly and keep a close eye on the internal temperature.
Overall, cooking a turkey crown in a slow cooker can be a convenient and delicious option, but it requires careful attention to cooking times and temperatures. With the right settings and a bit of patience, you can enjoy a perfectly cooked and flavorful turkey crown that will impress your family and friends.
Preparation
Preparing a slow cooker turkey crown requires some simple steps to ensure a delicious and juicy result. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you prepare your turkey crown:
- Thaw the turkey crown thoroughly in the fridge for 24-48 hours, depending on its size. It is important to allow enough time for the turkey to defrost completely.
- Remove the turkey crown from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture and ensures a crispy skin.
- Season the turkey crown with salt and pepper, both inside and outside. You can also add your preferred herbs and spices for extra flavor.
- Place the turkey crown in a slow cooker with the breast side down. This helps to keep the meat moist as it cooks.
- Add any desired vegetables, such as onions, carrots, and celery, to the slow cooker around the turkey crown. These will not only add flavor but also serve as a bed for the turkey crown.
- Cover the slow cooker with a lid and set it to the desired cooking temperature. The recommended cooking temperature for a turkey crown is low or high, depending on how much time you have available.
- Cook the turkey crown for the recommended time, usually 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size of the turkey crown and the individual slow cooker.
- Once the cooking time is up, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey crown. It should reach a minimum of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is thoroughly cooked.
- Remove the turkey crown from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and juicy turkey crown.
Following these preparation steps will help you achieve a perfectly cooked and flavorful slow cooker turkey crown. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Cooking Process
When cooking a turkey crown in a slow cooker, it is important to follow a few key steps to ensure the best results. Here is a simple guide to the cooking process:
1. Prepare the turkey crown by removing any packaging and giblets. Rinse the turkey crown under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
2. Season the turkey crown with your preferred seasonings. Popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary. Rub the seasonings all over the turkey crown, ensuring it is evenly coated.
3. Place the turkey crown in the slow cooker. If necessary, trim the turkey to fit the size of your slow cooker. Add any additional aromatics, such as chopped onions, garlic, or herbs, around the turkey crown for added flavor.
4. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to the desired cooking temperature. For a turkey crown, it is recommended to cook on low heat for 4-6 hours. Cooking on high heat is not recommended as it can lead to a dry or overcooked turkey crown.
5. During the cooking process, it is important to avoid lifting the lid too frequently as this can increase the cooking time. Only lift the lid if necessary, such as to baste the turkey crown with its juices or to check for doneness near the end of the cooking time.
6. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey crown. The turkey crown should reach a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
7. Once the turkey crown is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and transfer it to a serving platter. Allow the turkey crown to rest for a few minutes before carving and serving.
The cooking process for a turkey crown in a slow cooker may vary slightly depending on the size and model of your slow cooker, as well as the specific recipe and seasonings used. It is always important to follow any additional instructions provided with your slow cooker and to use a food thermometer to ensure the turkey crown is fully cooked.
Slow Cooker Settings
When it comes to cooking a turkey crown in a slow cooker, it’s important to understand the different settings available and how they can affect the cooking time and outcome of your meal. Most slow cookers have three heat settings:
Low
The low setting on a slow cooker is typically around 200°F (93°C) and is best for recipes that require long cooking times. When cooking a turkey crown, the low setting can be used to slowly cook the meat, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
High
The high setting on a slow cooker is usually around 300°F (149°C) and is ideal for recipes that require faster cooking times. If you’re short on time and need to cook your turkey crown quickly, the high setting can help you achieve this.
It’s worth noting that cooking times may vary depending on the size of your turkey crown and the specific slow cooker you’re using. It’s always recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the turkey crown reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Keep in mind that cooking a turkey crown in a slow cooker will result in a softer skin compared to oven-roasted turkey crowns. If you prefer a crispy skin, you can transfer the turkey crown to a preheated oven for a few minutes after it’s done cooking in the slow cooker.
Overall, understanding and utilizing the different settings on your slow cooker will help you achieve the desired results when cooking a turkey crown. Whether you choose the low or high setting, be sure to monitor the internal temperature of the meat to ensure it’s cooked to perfection.
Temperature Control
When using a slow cooker to cook a turkey crown, it is important to have proper temperature control to ensure food safety and desired results. Here are some guidelines to follow:
1. Preheating the Slow Cooker
Before placing the turkey crown in the slow cooker, it is recommended to preheat the appliance for about 20 minutes on the high heat setting. This helps to ensure that the internal temperature of the slow cooker is at a safe level before adding the turkey.
2. Cooking Temperature
The slow cooker should be set to the low heat setting for cooking a turkey crown. This allows for a slow and controlled cooking process, ensuring that the meat remains tender and juicy. The low heat setting maintains a temperature of around 170°F (77°C) to 200°F (93°C).
It is important to avoid using the high heat setting for cooking a turkey crown in a slow cooker, as this can lead to overcooking and drying out the meat.
3. Monitoring the Internal Temperature
It is recommended to use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the turkey crown. The turkey crown should reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey crown, avoiding contact with bone, to get an accurate reading.
- For added safety, it is a good practice to check the internal temperature of the turkey crown in multiple spots.
- If the turkey crown has not reached the desired internal temperature after the recommended cooking time, allow it to cook for longer until it reaches the safe temperature range.
By following these temperature control guidelines, you can ensure that your turkey crown is cooked to perfection in the slow cooker.
Resting Time
After removing the turkey crown from the slow cooker, it is important to allow it to rest before carving and serving. Resting the turkey allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and moist turkey crown.
Typically, it is recommended to let the turkey crown rest for about 20-30 minutes. This resting time allows the internal temperature of the meat to stabilize and the juices to reabsorb. During this time, you can cover the turkey crown loosely with foil to keep it warm.
Why is Resting Time Important?
Resting the turkey crown is important for several reasons:
- Juice Redistribution: Resting allows the juices that have been drawn to the surface during cooking to redistribute back into the meat. This helps to ensure a moist and flavorful turkey crown.
- Temperature Stabilization: Resting allows the internal temperature of the meat to stabilize. This helps to prevent overcooking and drying out the turkey crown.
- Easier Carving: Resting also makes the turkey crown easier to carve. The meat will be firmer and hold its shape better, resulting in cleaner and more appealing slices.
Remember, the resting time is just as important as the cooking time when it comes to achieving the perfect turkey crown in a slow cooker. So be patient and resist the temptation to carve into it right away!
Serving Suggestions
Once your turkey crown is cooked to perfection in the slow cooker, it’s time to serve it up! Here are some delicious serving suggestions to make your meal even more memorable:
1. Classic Roast Dinner: Serve your turkey crown alongside crispy roast potatoes, parsnips, and carrots. Don’t forget the Yorkshire puddings and a generous drizzle of homemade gravy.
2. Festive Cranberry Sauce: Pair your turkey crown with a tangy cranberry sauce. The sweet and tart flavors of the cranberries complement the tender meat perfectly.
3. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Whip up a batch of creamy mashed potatoes to serve alongside your turkey crown. The creamy texture of the potatoes pairs beautifully with the succulent turkey.
4. Green Bean Casserole: Add a touch of freshness to your meal with a side of green bean casserole. The crispy green beans and creamy mushroom sauce create a delicious contrast to the turkey.
5. Herb-Infused Stuffing: Stuff your turkey crown with a fragrant herb-infused stuffing. The flavors will infuse the meat as it cooks, creating a mouthwatering combination.
| Recommended Side Dishes: |
|---|
| Roast potatoes |
| Parsnips |
| Carrots |
| Yorkshire puddings |
| Cranberry sauce |
| Creamy mashed potatoes |
| Green bean casserole |
| Herb-infused stuffing |
Remember to garnish your turkey crown with some fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, for added aroma and presentation. And don’t forget to enjoy your delicious turkey crown with your loved ones!
Recipe Variations
While the classic slow cooker turkey crown recipe is delicious on its own, you can also experiment with different flavours and ingredients to create unique variations. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Herbed Turkey Crown: Add a variety of fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme and sage to the slow cooker along with the turkey crown. This will infuse the meat with a fragrant and herby flavour.
- Citrus Turkey Crown: Squeeze the juice of an orange, lemon or lime over the turkey crown before adding it to the slow cooker. This will add a bright and tangy taste to the meat.
- Spiced Turkey Crown: Sprinkle a mixture of spices such as paprika, cumin and garlic powder over the turkey crown before slow cooking. This will give the meat a warm and spicy kick.
- Honey Glazed Turkey Crown: Mix together honey, soy sauce and a splash of olive oil to create a glaze for the turkey crown. Brush the glaze over the meat before slow cooking to create a sweet and sticky exterior.
- BBQ Turkey Crown: Rub a dry BBQ seasoning onto the turkey crown before adding it to the slow cooker. This will give the meat a smoky and tangy BBQ flavour.
Feel free to get creative and customize the recipe to your taste preferences. Just remember to adjust the cooking time and temperature according to the size of the turkey crown and the specific ingredients you’re using.
Questions and answers
How long does a turkey crown take to cook in a slow cooker?
A turkey crown typically takes about 6-8 hours to cook in a slow cooker.
What is the cooking time for a turkey crown in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for a turkey crown in a slow cooker is usually around 6-8 hours.
