Roast Turkey

Introduction

Get ready, foodies! It’s that time of year again when friends and family gather around the table to celebrate Thanksgiving. This year, make your holiday feast unforgettable with an irresistible Roast Turkey recipe. Juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor, this turkey will be the true star of your holiday gathering.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Salt and pepper to taste
1 onion, quartered
1 lemon, halved
4 sprigs fresh rosemary
6 sprigs fresh thyme

Basting Sauce Ingredients

1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons melted butter

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 3-4 hours
Total Time: 4-4.5 hours
Yield: 12-14 servings

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Pat your turkey dry with paper towels and loosen the skin over the breast.
2. Rub softened butter under the skin and all over the bird. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Fill the turkey cavity with onion quarters, lemon halves, rosemary, and thyme.
4. Place the turkey on a roasting rack set in a roasting pan, breast side up.
5. Mix chicken broth and melted butter to create the basting sauce. Brush generously over the turkey.
6. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven, basting every 30 minutes, until the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C), about 3-4 hours.
7. Let your glorious turkey rest before carving and serving.

Nutritional Information

Per serving, this Thanksgiving showstopper offers:
– Calories: 600 kcal
– Protein: 85g
– Fat: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 0g
– Fiber: 0g
– Sodium: 400mg

Dig in, enjoy the holiday cheer, and celebrate with this mouthwatering roast turkey!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. Prepare the Turkey

Pat your turkey dry with paper towels. Gently loosen the skin over the breast.

3. Apply Butter and Seasoning

Rub the softened butter generously under the skin and all over the turkey. Season it with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Stuff the Turkey Cavity

Fill the turkey cavity with the quartered onion, halved lemon, fresh rosemary, and fresh thyme.

5. Position the Turkey

Place the turkey on a roasting rack set inside a roasting pan, ensuring it is breast side up.

6. Make the Basting Sauce

Mix together the chicken broth and melted butter to create the basting sauce.

7. Baste the Turkey

Brush the basting sauce generously over the entire turkey.

8. Roast the Turkey

Roast the turkey in the preheated oven, basting every 30 minutes. Cook until the thickest part of the thigh reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), which should take about 3-4 hours.

9. Let it Rest

Once done, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for a while before carving and serving.

Notes

Cooking Time

The cooking time may vary based on the exact weight of the turkey. A general guideline is about 13-15 minutes per pound.

Basting Tips

Consistent basting helps keep the turkey moist and enhances flavor. Use a basting brush or spoon to apply the sauce thoroughly.

Resting Time

Allow the turkey to rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows juices to redistribute, making for a juicier turkey.

Storage

Leftover turkey should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-4 days.

Cook techniques

Preparing the Turkey

Pat the turkey dry with paper towels and loosen the skin over the breast to allow for even seasoning and cooking.

Flavoring Under the Skin

Rub softened butter under the skin and all over the bird to create a flavorful, moist roast.

Stuffing the Cavity

Fill the turkey cavity with aromatics like onion, lemon, rosemary, and thyme to enhance the flavor during roasting.

Roasting Technique

Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a pan, and roast it breast side up to ensure even cooking and browning.

Basting the Turkey

Mix chicken broth and melted butter to create a basting sauce, and brush it over the turkey every 30 minutes to keep it moist.

Checking for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

FAQ

How long should I roast a 12-14 pound turkey?

Roast the turkey for about 3-4 hours, basting every 30 minutes.

What can I use instead of fresh herbs?

Dried herbs can be used as a substitute; use approximately one-third of the amount specified for fresh herbs.

Is it necessary to baste the turkey?

Basting helps to keep the turkey moist and adds flavor, but it is not absolutely necessary.

Should I let the turkey rest before carving?

Yes, letting the turkey rest for at least 20-30 minutes after roasting allows the juices to redistribute for a juicier carve.

Can I stuff the turkey with bread stuffing?

Yes, you can stuff the turkey with bread stuffing, but it is important to ensure the stuffing reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion