Making a Perfect Herb-Roasted Turkey
The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and, of course, delicious food. One of the most iconic dishes that graces the Christmas table is the herb-roasted turkey. This dish is not only a centerpiece but also a symbol of festive cheer and culinary excellence. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps to create a perfect herb-roasted turkey that will impress your guests and make your holiday meal unforgettable.
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey 12-14 pounds
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 onion quartered
- 1 lemon halved
- 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions
Preparation:
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature by the time your turkey is ready to go in.
- Rinse and Dry the Turkey: Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy skin.
- Prepare the Herb Butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. This herb butter will infuse the turkey with flavor and keep it moist during roasting.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Rub the Herb Butter: Gently lift the skin of the turkey and rub the herb butter underneath, directly onto the meat. This helps to flavor the meat and keep it moist. Rub the remaining herb butter all over the outside of the turkey.
- Herb-Roasted Turkey
- Stuff the Turkey: Place the quartered onion and halved lemon inside the cavity of the turkey. These aromatics will add additional flavor as the turkey roasts.
- Prepare the Roasting Pan: Place the turkey on a roasting rack inside a large roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. This will create steam and help keep the turkey moist.
- Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey in the preheated oven. Roast the turkey, basting occasionally with the pan juices, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This will take approximately 3-4 hours, depending on the size of your turkey.
- Rest the Turkey: Once the turkey reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it stays moist.
Notes
Making a Perfect Herb-Roasted Turkey
Nutrition
Calories: 461.4kcalCarbohydrates: 3.1gProtein: 56.8gFat: 24.1gSaturated Fat: 9.7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7.1gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 211.7mgSodium: 639.4mgPotassium: 643.9mgFiber: 0.8gSugar: 1.3gVitamin A: 510.6IUVitamin C: 8.9mgCalcium: 55mgIron: 2.8mg