Homestyle Turkey, the Michigander Way

Michigan, with its rich history and diverse culture, has a culinary tradition as vibrant as its landscapes. While the Great Lakes State may be known for its stunning scenery, it’s also celebrated for its delicious comfort food. One dish that embodies this is Homestyle Turkey, the Michigander Way. This recipe brings together the warmth of a hearty home-cooked meal and a touch of Michigan flair. With succulent roasted turkey, flavorful stuffing, and a savory gravy that’s a nod to the state’s love for rich, satisfying flavors, this meal is sure to become a favorite at your family gatherings. Join us as we dive into this delightful Michigander culinary experience.

Ingredients

For the Turkey:

  • 1 whole turkey (12-15 pounds)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, smashed

For the Stuffing:

  • 8 cups day-old bread, cubed
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1/2 cup diced carrot
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons dried sage
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups chicken or turkey broth

For the Gravy:

  • Pan drippings from the roasted turkey
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken or turkey broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Turkey:

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity and discard or save for making stock.
  3. Rinse the turkey inside and out, then pat it dry with paper towels.
  4. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
  5. Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Brush the entire turkey with the herb-infused butter mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
  6. Fill the turkey cavity with the quartered onion, chopped carrots, chopped celery, and smashed garlic cloves.
  7. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when measured in the thickest part of the thigh.
  8. Once done, remove the turkey from the oven, cover it loosely with foil, and let it rest for about 20-30 minutes before carving.

Creating the Stuffing:

  1. While the turkey is roasting, you can prepare the stuffing. In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrot, and sauté until they become tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the dried sage, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add the cubed day-old bread and chicken or turkey broth. Gently toss until the bread absorbs the liquid and the mixture is well combined.

Making the Gravy:

  1. After removing the turkey from the roasting pan, pour the pan drippings into a measuring cup. Skim off the fat and reserve 1/4 cup.
  2. In a saucepan, heat the reserved fat over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in the chicken or turkey broth and continue whisking until the gravy thickens.
  4. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving and Enjoyment:

  1. Carve the roasted turkey and serve it alongside the flavorful stuffing and rich gravy.

Tips

  • Brining: Consider brining your turkey for added flavor and moisture. A simple brine of water, salt, sugar, and aromatic spices can work wonders.
  • Herb Variations: Experiment with herbs in the turkey rub or stuffing. Michigan’s gardens offer a wide variety, from fresh sage to oregano and parsley.
  • Local Ingredients: Whenever possible, use locally sourced ingredients for an authentic Michigander touch. Fresh Michigan-grown vegetables and herbs can enhance the dish.

 

Homestyle Turkey, the Michigander Way, is more than just a meal; it’s a taste of Michigan’s culinary soul. With a perfectly roasted turkey, herb-infused stuffing, and a savory gravy that ties it all together, this dish embodies the comfort and flavor that Michiganders hold dear. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a Sunday family gathering, this recipe will make any occasion a special one. So, bring the heart of Michigan to your table, and savor the flavors of this delicious tradition.