When dealing with a dry, overcooked turkey, it's essential to approach the cutting process carefully to maintain as much moisture and flavor as possible. Here's the best way to cut up a dry, overcooked turkey for leftovers:
Let it rest: Before you start cutting, allow the turkey to rest for about 15-20 minutes. This resting period will help redistribute the juices, making the meat slightly more tender and easier to cut.
Use a sharp knife: A sharp chef's knife or carving knife is crucial for clean cuts through the dry meat. Avoid using serrated knives, as they can tear the meat further.
Separate the legs and wings: Start by removing the legs and wings from the turkey. Gently pull them away from the body and use the knife to cut through the joints. If necessary, you can also slice through the skin to separate them cleanly.
Carve the breast meat: Carefully slice the breast meat, working parallel to the breastbone. Make thin, even slices to help prevent further drying out of the meat.
Slice the thigh and drumstick meat: Separate the thigh and drumstick by cutting through the joint. Then, slice the thigh meat and remove the meat from the drumstick bones.
Remove the back and save it for stock: If the turkey is particularly dry, the back may not have much meat left. However, if there is some meat, you can cut it off and save it for making turkey stock or soup later.
Add moisture: Once you have cut up the turkey, you can add some moisture to the leftovers to help improve their texture. You can reheat the slices with a little bit of turkey or chicken broth, gravy, or even a simple sauce to keep the meat moist.
Store properly: After cutting, store the leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. If you're not planning to consume them within a few days, you can also freeze portions of the turkey for longer storage.
Remember that cutting up an overcooked turkey may not completely salvage its texture, but these steps should help improve its taste and make it more enjoyable as leftovers. Also, consider using the leftover turkey in dishes where the dryness is less noticeable, such as soups, stews, or turkey pot pie.