Turkey breast with aromatic herbs in a Roman pot

Turkey thigh with aromatic herbs in a Roman pot

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Introduction

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today I present a recipe that will turn any meal into a celebration: turkey thigh with aromatic herbs, prepared in a Roman pot. This dish is not only tasty but also full of flavors that will delight your senses. Besides being a simple recipe, it is also an excellent choice for a family dinner or a festive lunch.

Turkey thigh is a juicy and nutrient-rich meat. Moreover, the dish can be easily adapted to suit your culinary preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. So, let’s get started!

Ingredients

- 1 turkey thigh (approximately 1-1.5 kg)
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon of dried sage
- 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
- 1 piece of butter (approximately the size of a walnut)
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 15-20 ml of brandy
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water (for the Roman pot)

Instructions

1. Preparing the turkey thigh
Start by washing the turkey thigh well under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove any impurities. After washing the meat, let it drain for a few minutes.

2. Creating the herb mixture
Carefully loosen the skin of the turkey thigh, being careful not to tear it. Under the skin, skillfully place the herb mixture: rosemary, sage, and parsley. These herbs will not only add intense flavors but will also keep the meat juicy during baking.

3. Seasoning
After placing the herbs, pull the skin back over. Now it’s time to season the turkey thigh with salt and pepper. Don’t hesitate to use a generous amount of spices, as they will enhance the flavor of the meat.

4. Buttering
Melt the butter and brush the turkey thigh on all sides. The butter will add a rich texture and help form a delicious crust during baking.

5. Preparing the Roman pot
Fill the Roman pot with a few centimeters of water, then carefully place the turkey thigh inside. The Roman pot will help maintain moisture and allow the meat to cook evenly.

6. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the Roman pot inside. Let the turkey thigh bake for about 30-40 minutes. Here, the meat will begin to cook slowly, and the flavors will blend perfectly.

7. Applying the sauce
After the first 30-40 minutes, remove the pot from the oven. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with the brandy. Use this sauce to brush the meat, ensuring that each portion is covered. This will add a deep flavor and a beautiful color.

8. Finishing the baking
Put the pot back in the oven and continue to bake the turkey thigh for another 20-30 minutes, until the meat is well cooked and browned. Use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature has reached 75°C (165°F), indicating that it is ready.

9. Cooling and slicing
Once the meat is cooked, remove the pot from the oven and let the thigh cool for 10-15 minutes. This resting time will allow the juices in the meat to redistribute, resulting in a juicier thigh. Then, slice the thigh into thin pieces.

10. Serving
Serve the turkey thigh alongside a delicious side dish. I opted for zucchini with parsley, but you can choose your favorite vegetables or a mashed potato. A seasonal salad would add a fresh and vibrant note to your meal.

Practical Tips

- Choosing ingredients: When selecting the turkey thigh, opt for quality meat, preferably with skin, which will contribute to the juiciness of the dish.
- Aromatic herbs: If you don’t have dried herbs, you can use fresh herbs. Try using double the amount of fresh herbs, as the flavors are more intense.
- Variations: You can experiment with other spices, such as garlic or paprika, for a different flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of meat?
Certainly! This recipe can also be adapted for other types of meat, such as chicken or duck.

- What side dishes pair best?
This turkey thigh is versatile and pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

- Can I prepare the meat in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the turkey thigh a day ahead. Just make sure to keep it covered in the fridge.

Nutritional Benefits

Turkey thigh is an excellent source of protein, vitamins (such as B6 and B12), and minerals (such as zinc and iron). It also contains healthy fats, especially when cooked with butter and olive oil. This can be an excellent choice for a balanced diet.

Conclusion

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to put your culinary skills into practice and prepare this delicious turkey thigh with aromatic herbs. I look forward to hearing how it turned out! Enjoy your meal!