Herb-Glazed Roasted Turkey

Mastering the Art of Herb-Glazed Roasted Turkey

Are you ready to elevate your holiday feast with a centerpiece that’s both stunning and delicious? Look no further than our Herb-Glazed Roasted Turkey recipe! This masterpiece combines the rich flavors of tender turkey with a heavenly herb glaze that will leave your guests coming back for seconds. With a few simple ingredients and some kitchen prowess, you can create a turkey that’s worthy of any festive occasion. Let’s dive into the details and uncover the secrets to mastering this culinary masterpiece!

Ingredients:

Meat:

  • 1 (16 pound) whole turkey

Produce:

  • 1 tsp Dried basil
  • 1 tbsp Fresh parsley
  • 2 tsp Dried sage leaves
  • 1 tsp Ground thyme

Condiments:

  • 1 cup Honey

Baking & Spices:

  • 1/2 tsp Ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp Salt

Oils & Vinegars:

  • 1/4 cup Extra-virgin olive oil

Dairy:

  • 1/2 cup Butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and position the oven rack to the lowest position.

2. Prepare the Turkey:

  • Remove the turkey from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the turkey on a roasting rack set inside a roasting pan.

3. Season the Turkey:

  • In a small bowl, combine the dried basil, sage, thyme, ground black pepper, and salt. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the surface of the turkey, including the cavity.

4. Prepare the Herb Glaze:

  • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the honey and fresh parsley, and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened.

5. Glaze the Turkey:

  • Brush the herb glaze generously over the surface of the turkey, ensuring that it is evenly coated.

6. Roast the Turkey:

  • Place the turkey in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 3 1/2 to 4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

7. Baste the Turkey:

  • Every hour, baste the turkey with the pan drippings and any remaining herb glaze to keep it moist and flavorful.

8. Rest and Serve:

  • Once the turkey is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender, juicy bird.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Brine the Turkey: For extra juicy and flavorful meat, consider brining the turkey overnight before roasting. Simply submerge the turkey in a mixture of water, salt, sugar, and your favorite herbs and spices.
  • Add Citrus Zest: Enhance the flavor of the herb glaze by adding grated lemon or orange zest for a citrusy twist.
  • Stuffed Turkey Option: If you prefer to stuff your turkey, fill the cavity with a mixture of aromatics such as onions, garlic, celery, and fresh herbs before roasting.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how to make a keto-friendly version of Herb-Glazed Roasted Turkey:

  • Sweetener Swap: Replace the honey in the herb glaze with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener to reduce the carb content.
  • Herb Butter: Instead of using honey in the glaze, create a keto-friendly herb butter by mixing softened butter with chopped fresh herbs and garlic powder. Rub this mixture under the turkey skin and over the surface for added flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: How long should I roast the turkey per pound? A: As a general guideline, roast the turkey for approximately 13-15 minutes per pound at 325°F (165°C). However, it’s always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh in both the seasoning rub and the herb glaze. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor, so you may need to adjust the amounts accordingly.

Q: Can I make the herb glaze ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make the herb glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it gently on the stove before brushing it onto the turkey.

Q: How should I store leftover turkey? A: Leftover turkey can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Alternatively, you can freeze leftover turkey for up to 3 months. Be sure to remove the meat from the bone and store it in freezer-safe containers or bags.

In conclusion, Herb-Glazed Roasted Turkey is a classic holiday centerpiece that never fails to impress. With its aromatic herb seasoning and sweet honey glaze, this turkey is a true showstopper that will delight your guests and leave them craving more. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite for years to come. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to roast the perfect turkey that will be the star of your festive feast!