Smoked Turkey has a great taste that is unique in flavor, and it also makes a great substitute for Ham during the holidays if you have any pork restrictions amongst your guests. Smoked Turkey and Ham have a similar texture, so much so that I have a sister that still swears to this day that she ate ham at Thanksgiving. One difference is that Ham tends to be saltier and fattier than the Smoked Turkey, which has more of a smoky, savory flavor.
Smoked Turkey does not need to cook very long. Its already mostly cooked when you receive it, so you simply need to rewarm it enough to heat it all the way through and activate all the smoky flavors. It usually takes about 1-2 hours at 325-400 degrees, and then an additional 20-30 minutes if you are applying a glaze. We recommend a low and slow approach with 325 degrees for 2 hours, but if you are short on time, you can kick up the heat and adjust your cooking time accordingly. Keep an eye on it so your turkey does not dry out. Your Smoked Turkey is ready when it reaches 155-165 degrees and it should be very rich in flavor, with juicy meat still slightly firm so you can easily carve it into beautiful slices.
Check out our recipe for Honey Mustard Glazed Smoked Turkey in the Recipe Corner! The sweet Honey Mustard Glaze added during the last 20 minutes of cooking compliments the savory flavors of the Smoked Turkey very nicely. Serve your Honey Mustard Glazed Smoked Turkey with cheese bread or garlic bread and butter squash or sweet potatoes mashed and sweetened with brown sugar for a complete meal. YUM!!
