How to Make Perfect Roasted Turkey Step by Step
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Recipe Overview
Overview
Roasting a turkey can seem daunting, but this recipe breaks it down into manageable steps. Starting with a 13-pound turkey, the process begins by preparing a flavorful butter mixture infused with lemon and orange zest, along with fresh herbs like thyme, sage, and rosemary. This mixture is carefully rubbed under the skin, ensuring that the turkey is well-seasoned and aromatic.
The addition of fruits and vegetables, such as apples, onions, and garlic, not only enhances the flavor but also helps keep the turkey moist during roasting. The turkey is then placed on a roasting tile, which is a great alternative to porous wood, ensuring a clean cooking surface.
Throughout the cooking process, basting every 30 minutes is key to achieving that beautiful golden color and crispy skin. The turkey is roasted at 350°F until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F, ensuring it’s cooked through yet juicy. After removing it from the oven, letting it rest allows the flavors to settle, making for a perfect presentation.
This turkey recipe is not just about the cooking; it’s about creating a memorable meal that brings family together. With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering, especially during the holidays.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Prepare garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, fresh garlic, lemon, apple, onion, orange, butter, and fresh herbs.
Use one and a half sticks of butter at room temperature.
Tip: Use room temperature butter for easier spreading.
Zest one lemon and add the zest to the butter.
Peel the orange and finely mince a portion of it.
Combine garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika into the butter mixture.
Chop fresh thyme and rosemary, then add to the butter mixture.
Tip: Fresh herbs are best for flavor; if unavailable, use dried herbs.
Clean and dry the turkey, then separate the skin from the meat carefully.
Take out the turkey's temperature button.
Spread the butter mixture under the skin of the turkey.
Tip: Ensure the turkey is super dry with paper towels for better butter adherence.
Wash hands after handling the turkey.
Cut the onion into pieces for stuffing inside the turkey.
Slice the golden delicious apple for stuffing.
Chop one celery rib.
Mash garlic cloves and prepare to add them inside the turkey.
Sprinkle pepper and herbs inside the turkey.
Tip: Season the turkey well from the inside out for maximum flavor.
Stuff the turkey with onion, celery, apple, and garlic.
Use twine to tie the turkey legs together.
Tuck the wings of the turkey under the body.
Insert a probe thermometer into the deepest part of the turkey breast.
Pour about a cup and a half of water into the roasting pan.
Place the turkey in the oven set at 350° and roast until the internal temperature reaches 160°.
Take the turkey out of the oven once it reaches the desired temperature.
Tip: Baste the turkey every 30 minutes for a golden, crispy skin.
Allow the turkey to rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.
Tip: Let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.
Add pieces of orange and cranberries for garnish.
Carve the turkey and remove the insides.
Tip: Leave the turkey uncovered after cooking for a crispy crust.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Dairy
→ Substitution: Coconut Oil
Ingredient: Garlic
→ Substitution: Garlic Powder
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Basting the turkey every 30 minutes helps achieve a golden, crispy skin.
- •Using fresh herbs enhances the flavor and aroma of the turkey.
- •Stuffing the turkey with fruits and vegetables adds moisture and flavor during cooking.
- •Letting the turkey rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute for a more tender result.
