Delicious Roast Turkey Recipe

Introduction

A perfectly roasted turkey is the centerpiece of many festive meals and special occasions. This roast turkey recipe provides a flavorful and juicy bird with a golden-brown crispy skin that’s sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 whole turkey (10-12 lbs)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 1 large carrot, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled
• 2 cups chicken or turkey broth
• 1 lemon, halved
• 1 apple, quartered
• Fresh herbs for stuffing (optional, such as parsley, rosemary, or thyme)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Position the oven rack in the lowest position.
2. Prepare the Turkey: Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey’s cavity. Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels. Place the turkey on a rack in a large roasting pan.
3. Season the Turkey: In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and sage. Gently loosen the skin over the turkey breasts using your hands and rub some of the butter mixture directly onto the meat under the skin. Rub the remaining butter mixture all over the outside of the turkey.
4. Stuff the Turkey: If desired, stuff the cavity with the quartered onion, lemon, apple, garlic, and fresh herbs. This step adds extra flavor but is optional.
5. Add Vegetables and Broth: Scatter the chopped carrot, celery, and any remaining onion pieces in the bottom of the roasting pan. Pour 2 cups of broth into the pan around the turkey.
6. Roast the Turkey: Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil and roast in the preheated oven. Roast for about 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (75°C). For a 10-12 lb turkey, this will take about 3 to 3.5 hours.
7. Baste the Turkey: Every 45 minutes, baste the turkey with the pan drippings using a basting brush or spoon. Remove the foil during the last 30-45 minutes to allow the skin to become golden brown and crispy.
8. Rest the Turkey: Once fully cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
9. Make the Gravy (optional): Use the pan drippings to make gravy. Strain the drippings into a saucepan, discard the vegetables, and add 2-3 tablespoons of flour. Cook over medium heat for 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of broth or water and simmer until thickened, stirring constantly.
10. Carve and Serve: Carve the turkey and serve with your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 10-12 servings
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: About 3 to 3.5 hours
• Resting Time: 20-30 minutes

Variations

• Herb Butter: Experiment with different herbs or spices in the butter mixture, such as oregano or paprika, for varied flavors.
• Citrus Twist: Add orange or lime slices to the stuffing for a citrusy touch.
• Stuffing: For a traditional touch, use your favorite stuffing recipe in the turkey cavity.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat turkey slices in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave in short intervals.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a frozen turkey? Yes, but make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator for several days before cooking.
2. How do I know when the turkey is done? Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (75°C).
3. Should I cook the turkey breast side up or down? Cooking breast side up is standard and helps keep the breast meat moist.
4. How often should I baste the turkey? Baste every 45 minutes to keep the turkey moist.
5. Can I cook the turkey without stuffing it? Yes, stuffing is optional. You can still achieve a flavorful turkey.
6. What if I don’t have a roasting rack? You can use a bed of vegetables or crumpled foil as a substitute for a roasting rack.
7. How do I get crispy skin? Remove the foil during the last 30-45 minutes of roasting.
8. Can I make gravy in advance? Gravy is best made fresh, but you can prepare it a day ahead and reheat it gently.
9. What should I do if my turkey is cooking too quickly? If it’s browning too fast, cover it with foil to prevent burning.
10. How long should I let the turkey rest? Rest for 20-30 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

Conclusion

This roast turkey recipe is a classic choice for any special occasion, offering a juicy and flavorful bird with a perfectly crispy skin. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a delicious centerpiece that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy your cooking and the delightful meal that follows!

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