Oven-baked turkey breast

Oven-roasted turkey thigh is a classic recipe, perfect for holiday meals or family dinners. This recipe stands out not only for its savory taste but also for the inviting aroma of the marinade, which makes the meat juicy and full of flavor. Preparing this recipe is simple and quick, and the result will surely impress all your loved ones. Let's embark together on this culinary journey!

Preparation time:
- Marinating time: 3 hours
- Cooking time: 1 hour
- Total time: 4 hours
- Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 superior turkey thigh (approximately 800 g)
- 4-5 medium potatoes
Marinade:
- 2 crushed bay leaves
- 3-4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Steak spices, to preference
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste
- Olive oil, as needed
- 50 ml red wine

Necessary utensils:
- Marinade bag
- Baking tray
- Aluminum foil
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon

Step-by-step preparation:

Step 1: Marinating the turkey thigh
Start by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients: bay leaves, garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, steak spices, mustard, tomato paste, olive oil, and red wine. Mix well until you get a smooth paste.

Then, take the turkey thigh and remove any excess fat, if necessary. Place the meat in a clean plastic bag, pour the marinade over it, and rub well until the entire thigh is evenly coated. Seal the bag and let it marinate in the refrigerator for about 3 hours. This step is essential because it allows the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat, making it tastier.

Step 2: Preheating the oven
After the thigh has marinated, preheat the oven to 220°C. This temperature will help achieve a golden and appetizing crust on the outside of the meat.

Step 3: Preparing the potatoes
Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and cut them into large cubes or slices, as preferred. They will absorb the flavors from the marinade and become a delicious side dish for the turkey thigh. You can season them with a little olive oil, salt, pepper, and optionally a bit of thyme for added flavor.

Step 4: Baking
Place the turkey thigh in the baking tray, skin side up, and intersperse the potatoes around it. Cover the tray with aluminum foil to prevent the meat from drying out during the first 30 minutes of baking. Put the tray in the oven and let it bake for 30 minutes.

After this interval, remove the aluminum foil and turn the thigh over. Continue baking for another 30 minutes, until the meat is golden and juicy, and the potatoes are well cooked.

Step 5: Serving
After the turkey thigh is cooked, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring a more tender texture. Serve the thigh alongside the potatoes and a fresh salad of tomatoes and cucumbers. This combination not only provides a contrast of textures but also offers an excellent nutritional balance.

Serving suggestions:
For an extra flavor boost, you can add a garlic and dill yogurt sauce, which will perfectly complement the meat's flavors. Additionally, a glass of red wine will further enhance the meal, turning it into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Possible variations:
If you want to try a different flavor, you can add spices such as smoked paprika, rosemary, or even soy sauce to the marinade for a more intense taste. Also, the potatoes can be replaced with seasonal roasted vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or cauliflower.

Nutritional information:
This oven-roasted turkey thigh recipe is an excellent source of protein, having about 250 calories per serving. The healthy fats from olive oil and the vitamins from vegetables contribute to a balanced diet. Turkey meat is also a good choice for those looking to maintain their weight or improve cardiovascular health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, this recipe can also be adapted for chicken or pork, but the cooking time will vary.

2. How long can I keep the marinated meat?
It is recommended not to exceed 24 hours to avoid spoiling the meat.

3. How can I check if the thigh is cooked?
You can use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature of the meat should be about 75°C.

4. What side dishes can I serve alongside?
Besides the tomato and cucumber salad, you can also add a serving of rice or mashed potatoes to complete the meal.

In conclusion, oven-roasted turkey thigh is a simple, quick, and flavorful recipe, perfect for any occasion. With a dash of patience during marinating and a few basic ingredients, you will achieve a delicious dish that will gather all your loved ones around the table. Don't hesitate to experiment with flavors and side dishes, and the results will always be surprising!