oven-baked turkey stuffed with oranges

Delicious Recipe for Oven-Roasted Turkey Stuffed with Oranges

I present to you a recipe that will turn any meal into a true celebration: turkey stuffed with oranges! This dish has a rich history and is often associated with special occasions, bringing family and friends together around the table. Its orange aroma, enriched by a savory sauce, will delight everyone's taste buds. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 5-7 hours
Total time: 6-7 hours 30 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12

Ingredients:
- 5-7 kg turkey (it is recommended to choose a high-quality turkey, preferably raised naturally)
- 3 kg oranges (choose juicy and aromatic oranges, preferably organic)
- 6 garlic cloves (for an intense flavor, you can use fresh garlic)
- 2 tablespoons salt (helps develop flavors)
- 1 tablespoon pepper (black, freshly ground, for a more complex taste)
- 500 ml white wine (opt for a quality wine that is good for drinking)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the turkey: Start by cleaning the turkey, removing any leftover feathers and entrails. Wash it well under cold running water and dry it with paper towels. This will help achieve a crispy skin during baking.

2. Marinating the turkey: In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, and crushed garlic. Rub the turkey inside and out with this mixture. This will help the flavors absorb and make the meat juicier.

3. Preparing the stuffing: Wash the oranges well and cut them into quarters without peeling them. The orange peel will add extra flavor to the turkey. Stuff the turkey with the 3 kg of oranges. Make sure the stuffing is well arranged, but do not overstuff the turkey to allow air circulation during baking.

4. Preparing the sauce: In a small pot, heat the white wine. You can add a few sliced garlic cloves to intensify the flavors. Let it simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes, then remove it from the heat.

5. Baking the turkey: Preheat the oven to 100 degrees Celsius. Place the turkey in a large roasting pan, breast side up. Bake the turkey for 3 hours at this temperature. After 3 hours, increase the temperature to 150 degrees Celsius and bake for another 2 hours.

6. Finishing the baking: In the last 60 minutes, increase the temperature to 180-200 degrees Celsius. Every hour, baste the turkey with the previously prepared white wine sauce. This will keep the meat moist and intensify the flavors.

7. Checking for doneness: After 5-7 hours, the turkey is ready when the juices run clear, and the internal temperature reaches 75 degrees Celsius at the thickest part of the thigh. Use a meat thermometer to check this.

8. Resting the turkey: Once the turkey is ready, let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each slice will be juicy.

Practical tips:
- Choose a turkey weighing at least 5 kg to ensure it will be enough for all guests.
- The white wine can be replaced with red wine, but the flavors will vary.
- You can add other ingredients to the stuffing, such as apple or onion, for an even more complex flavor.
- If you want a crispier crust, you can brush the turkey with melted butter in the last 30 minutes of baking.

Nutritional benefits:
Turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, containing low saturated fats, making it a healthy choice for festive meals. Oranges are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to healthy digestion and boosting the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other fruits for the stuffing? Yes, you can experiment with apples or peaches to add a different flavor.
- How can I tell when the turkey is done? Use a meat thermometer; clear juices are another indicator of proper cooking.
- What can I do with leftover turkey? You can make soups, salads, or delicious sandwiches.

Serving:
You can serve this stuffed turkey with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. A fresh green salad with a light dressing will perfectly complement the meal. For a complete experience, serve it alongside a white wine that was used for cooking.

This orange-stuffed turkey recipe is not just a dish but a culinary experience that will bring joy and warmth to your homes. Don’t hesitate to share the final result with friends and family! Enjoy your meal!