Traditional Method

This is the method for cutting at the table while eager plates are passed to you. While traditional and exciting to watch, this can be a bit difficult to cut if you have a large group. The Kitchen Method (below) would likely be a better method. Transfer the turkey and remove the string.

1. Transfer the turkey from the roasting pan to a cutting board or presentation platter. (Tip: Use layers of paper towels or two clean kitchen towels to protect your hands from the heat.)

2. Cut through the trussing or other binding on the legs with scissors.

3. Remove the drumsticks first by placing the knife against the thigh and cutting down to expose the leg’s second joint. 

4. Apply pressure at the joint with the knifepoint; twist the knife and cut through to sever the drumstick free. Repeat for the other drumstick.  

5. Place the leg flat on a cutting board and cut through the joint to separate the drumstick and thigh. 

6. Hold the thigh firmly with a fork and cut slices evenly and parallel to the bone. 

7. If you want to carve the drumstick, tilt it slightly and slice downward toward the cutting board. (Be sure to carefully remove the hard tendons.)

8. Moving on to the rest of the turkey, hold the turkey firmly on a cutting board with a fork. Place the knife parallel and as close to the wing as possible. Make a deep cut into the breast, cutting towards the ribs. This makes a base cut.

9. Carve the breast by slicing downward, ending at the base cut. Keep the slices thin and even.