Introduction
Transform your holiday gatherings with a stunning Cranberry-Orange Glazed Turkey Breast! This dish promises juicy, flavorful meat enveloped in a vibrant, tangy glaze that is sure to impress your guests. Perfect as the centerpiece for your festive feast, this recipe will elevate your turkey game to new heights.
Detailed Ingredients
- 1 turkey breast (about 4-5 pounds)
- 1 cup kosher salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 oranges (zested and juiced)
- 4 cups water
- 1 small bunch fresh rosemary
For the Glaze
- 1 cup cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange marmalade
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 75-90 minutes
- Total Time: 8-12 hours (includes brining)
- Yield: 6-8 servings
Brine Time
In a large pot, combine the kosher salt, brown sugar, orange zest, and water. Bring to a simmer until dissolved. Cool and add orange juice and rosemary.
Soak It Up
Submerge the turkey breast in the cooled brine, cover, and refrigerate for 8-12 hours.
Glaze Craze
In a saucepan, mix cranberries, marmalade, orange juice, honey, and Dijon mustard. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
Preheat & Prep
Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove turkey from brine, rinse under cold water, and pat dry.
Roast Magic
Place turkey in a roasting pan. Brush it generously with some of that delicious glaze. Roast for 75-90 minutes or until the internal temperature hits 165°F, basting with glaze every 20 minutes.
Rest & Slice
Allow turkey to rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Smoother on any remaining glaze for extra flavor magic.
Nutritional Information
Per serving, this turkey delight packs:
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 47g
Fat: 5g
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Brine Time
In a large pot, combine the kosher salt, brown sugar, orange zest, and 4 cups of water. Bring to a simmer until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved. Remove from heat, let cool, and then add the orange juice and fresh rosemary to the brine mixture.
2. Soak It Up
Submerge the turkey breast in the cooled brine. Ensure it is fully covered, cover the pot or container, and refrigerate for 8-12 hours to allow the turkey to soak up the flavors.
3. Glaze Craze
In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange marmalade, orange juice, honey, and Dijon mustard. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the cranberries begin to burst and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
4. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). After the brining period, remove the turkey from the brine. Rinse it under cold water to remove excess salt, and pat it dry with paper towels.
5. Roast Magic
Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan. Brush it generously with some of the prepared glaze. Roast the turkey for 75-90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, basting with the glaze every 20 minutes for added flavor.
6. Rest & Slice
Once the turkey reaches the proper temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Slice the turkey and drizzle any remaining glaze over the slices for an enhanced flavor experience.
Notes
Brining creates a moist and flavorful turkey.
For optimal results, brine the turkey breast overnight if possible for the best infusion of flavors.
Try different citrus fruits.
Feel free to experiment with different citrus like lemons or limes for a unique flavor twist to the glaze.
Check doneness with a meat thermometer.
Ensure the turkey is cooked completely by checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F at its thickest part.
Leftovers can be delicious.
Store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use it for sandwiches, salads, or stir-fries.
Cook Techniques
Brining the Turkey
Brining is essential for infusing moisture and flavor into the turkey breast. The combination of kosher salt and brown sugar creates a balance of savory and sweet, while the orange zest and juice add a refreshing citrus note.
Preparing the Glaze
Creating the glaze involves cooking down cranberries with orange marmalade and honey to enhance their natural sweetness. This mixture not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful glaze that caramelizes while roasting.
Roasting the Turkey
Roasting at 350°F (175°C) ensures even cooking. Basting the turkey every 20 minutes contributes to a moist and flavorful exterior, while keeping an eye on the internal temperature guarantees that it’s cooked to perfection.
FAQ
How long should I brine the turkey breast?
Brine the turkey for 8-12 hours to ensure it absorbs enough flavor and moisture.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned or frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries for this recipe. Just make sure to cook them down until they burst.
What if I don’t have orange marmalade?
If you don’t have orange marmalade, you can substitute it with apricot jam or make your own by cooking down orange juice and sugar.
How can I tell if the turkey is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
Conclusion
This Cranberry-Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is not only a perfect centerpiece for any festive gathering but also a way to elevate your holiday meals with bold flavors and juicy texture. Enjoy delicious moments with family and friends around the table!
