The Best Turkey Recipe That Turns Your Dinner Into A Feast

Refika's Kitchen

Video Stats

Channel: Refika's Kitchen
Host: Refika's Kitchen
Published: May 17, 2025
Views: 18.1k

Recipe Overview

Prep: 30 min
Cook: 270 min
Difficulty: Intermediate
Serves: 8

Overview

This turkey recipe is a delightful twist on a classic Thanksgiving dish, showcasing how simple techniques can yield impressive results. The key to a juicy turkey lies in the preparation—allowing it to rest at room temperature before cooking is crucial for even cooking and tenderness. The use of fresh herbs like sage and thyme, combined with ginger, infuses the meat with a wonderful aroma and flavor that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary.

One of the standout techniques in this recipe is the use of an oil-soaked cloth to cover the turkey while it roasts. This method not only helps retain moisture but also prevents the skin from drying out, ensuring a beautifully golden and crispy exterior. The addition of quince marmalade in the final stages of cooking adds a sweet and tangy glaze that complements the savory flavors of the turkey perfectly.

As the turkey cooks, basting it with the juices from the tray every 30 to 45 minutes is essential for keeping the meat moist and flavorful. The recipe also emphasizes the importance of allowing the turkey to rest after cooking, which helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a succulent and tender turkey that is sure to impress your guests. This Thanksgiving, try this method for a turkey that is not only delicious but also a centerpiece worthy of any holiday table.

Recipe Details

Steps & Tips

00:34

Tip: Let the turkey rest for at least 2 hours before cooking to reach room temperature.

1
00:44

Take the rinds off the carrots and cut them into big chunks.

2
00:54

Add leeks, white onions, and red onions to the mix.

01:21

Tip: Using sage in the turkey recipe can help balance the smell and enhance the flavor.

3
01:33

Combine dried sage, dried thyme, ginger, salt, and black pepper.

4
01:45

Put the herb mixture inside the turkey cavity.

5
02:06

Sew the cavities of the turkey using small shish skewers.

6
03:06

Cross the legs and tie them with baker's twine.

7
03:24

Place the turkey in a deep tray with vegetables on the bottom.

03:24

Tip: Avoid stuffing the turkey to ensure it cooks evenly and remains juicy.

8
04:05

Cover the turkey with a clean, oiled cloth.

04:10

Tip: Cover the turkey with an oiled cloth to prevent it from drying out during cooking.

9
04:28

Preheat the oven to 180°C (355°F).

10
05:03

Check the turkey every 30 to 45 minutes and re-oil the cloth.

11
05:21

Pour some water from the tray around the turkey.

05:31

Tip: Do not use the fan setting in the oven as it can dry out the turkey.

12
06:07

Cook the turkey for 90 minutes plus 20 minutes for each kilogram.

13
06:21

Mix 4 tablespoons of butter with 6 tablespoons of quince marmalade.

06:30

Tip: Quince marmalade can be used instead of cranberry for a balanced flavor with turkey.

14
06:39

Rub the turkey with the butter and quince marmalade mixture.

15
06:44

Put the turkey back into the oven for another half an hour.

16
07:03

Transfer the liquid from the tray into a beaker and separate the fat.

17
07:27

Add flour to the liquid, cook it, and then add wine or stock.

18
07:40

Let the gravy simmer for 20 to 25 minutes.

07:59

Tip: Always serve the gravy hot to complement the warm turkey.

19
08:08

Carve the turkey and serve it with the gravy.

Ingredients

Serves: 8
Carrot2
Leek1
Onion2
Dried Sage1 tbsp
Dried Thyme1 tbsp
Ginger1 tbsp
Salt1 tsp
Black Pepper1 tsp
Olive Oil2 tbsp
Quince Marmalade4 tbsp
Butter4 tbsp
Allergen Alerts

Ingredient: Dairy

    → Substitution: Coconut Cream

Ingredient: Gluten

    → Substitution: Gluten-Free Flour Blend

Nutrition

Calories
450
kcal per serving
Protein
35
per serving
Carbs
10
per serving

Skill Level

Skill Level Intermediate
Beginner Intermediate Advanced

Frequently asked questions

Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.

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Interesting Tidbits

  • Resting the turkey at room temperature for at least 2 hours before cooking helps ensure even cooking.
  • Using a cloth soaked in oil prevents the turkey from drying out during roasting.
  • Basting the turkey every 30 to 45 minutes keeps it moist and flavorful.
  • Cooking time for turkey is approximately 90 minutes plus 20 minutes for each kilogram.
  • Quince marmalade adds a unique flavor and color to the turkey glaze.