The duration required for smoking a turkey at 275 degrees Fahrenheit is a critical factor in achieving both safe internal temperature and desired smoke flavor. The precise time is dependent on the turkey’s weight. Heavier birds naturally require longer smoking periods to ensure thorough cooking. This time directly impacts the final texture and taste of the poultry.
Maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the smoking process is paramount. Smoking at 275F allows for a balance between relatively quicker cooking times and sufficient smoke penetration, resulting in a moist and flavorful product. This method avoids the excessively long cook times associated with lower temperatures, while still imparting a robust smoky character. The practice of smoking meats, including turkey, dates back centuries as a method of preservation and flavor enhancement.