IT is traditional at Christmas for people to cook a large festive roast for their family to enjoy together.
For food that is left over, is it safe to reuse in the days following or is it a health risk? Here’s what we know.
1
How do I refrigerate turkey?
If you’re buying your meat in advance, you can keep raw turkey in the fridge for one to two days, according to the UK Food Safety guidelines.
After you’ve finished eating it, cool the meat at room temperature as soon as possible.
Once cool, cover it and put in the fridge (or freezer) – but make sure it’s away from raw meat.
How quickly must I eat it?
Cooked turkey is safe in the fridge for up to three to four days, so you can get creative with some recipes over the next few days.
Remember, if you’re heating up the leftover turkey, ensure it is piping hot throughout.
It should reach a temperature of 75°C or above.
Do not reheat meat more than once.
If it’s in the freezer, it is safe for up to two to six months, but make sure you fully defrost it before using it.
What can I do with leftover turkey?
Leftover turkey can be made into a pie, by mixing it with ham, adding it to some ready-made puff pastry, and baked in the oven – it’s comfort food at its finest.
You can also mix it with leftover mash, Brussels sprouts, parsnips, gravy and make some bubble and squeak.
If you fancy something a little lighter, you could try making it into a salad – just add plenty of mint and feta, and any other fresh veggies you like.
You could also treat yourself to a turkey curry.
Or, use it in pitta or flat bread by adding feta and pomegranate seeds or hummus and spices – but you can be creative with anything you fancy.
