Oven-baked turkey with vegetables

Oven Roasted Turkey with Vegetables - A Savory and Comforting Recipe

When it comes to oven-cooked dishes, nothing compares to the enticing aroma of turkey meat combined with fresh vegetables. This recipe for oven roasted turkey with vegetables is perfect for a family meal or a special occasion. It is simple, healthy, and has a taste that will leave everyone wanting more. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 turkey leg (approximately 1-1.5 kg)
- 2-3 medium potatoes
- 1 large carrot
- 3-4 mushrooms (champignon type)
- 1 onion (preferably white or yellow)
- 4 cherry tomatoes
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 vegetable stock cube
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup of warm water

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by preparing the turkey leg. Use a sharp knife to score the leg in a few places. This step will help the meat cook evenly and allow the flavors to penetrate better.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into cubes. Peel and slice the carrot into rounds. Cut the onion into large pieces and quarter the mushrooms. Lightly crush the garlic with the knife blade.

3. Assembling the dish: Place the turkey leg in a baking dish. Evenly distribute the potatoes, carrot, onion, mushrooms, and garlic around the meat. Add the whole cherry tomatoes for a touch of freshness and color.

4. Seasoning: Crumble the vegetable stock cube over the meat and vegetables to add extra flavor. Add salt and pepper to taste. The rosemary sprigs can be added whole or you can remove the leaves to sprinkle over the dish.

5. Adding water: Pour a cup of warm water into the dish, being careful not to soak the vegetables too much, just enough to create steam that will help with cooking.

6. Covering and baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and allow the meat to cook evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven at 180°C (350°F, gas mark 4) and let it bake for one hour.

7. Finishing the dish: After an hour, remove the aluminum foil and let the dish bake for another 20 minutes. This step will help form a golden and appetizing crust on the meat.

8. Serving: Once the turkey is cooked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Slice the leg into appropriate pieces and serve it alongside the roasted vegetables. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add an even more intense flavor, you can marinate the turkey leg a few hours beforehand using olive oil, crushed garlic, lemon, and herbs.
- You can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to customize the recipe to your preferences.
- For extra crunch, you can sprinkle a little breadcrumbs or grated cheese on top in the last 10 minutes of baking.

Nutritional information:
This oven roasted turkey recipe is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Turkey meat is a healthy choice due to its low-fat content and its contribution of B vitamins. The vegetables add fiber, antioxidants, and a varied mix of essential nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen turkey? Yes, but make sure to completely thaw it before cooking.
2. How can I tell when the turkey is cooked? Use a cooking thermometer; the meat should reach an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).
3. Can I store leftovers? Yes, the turkey can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or can be frozen for later use.

Serving suggestions: This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or a side of rice or quinoa. You can accompany the meal with a glass of white wine or a fruit cocktail for a complete culinary experience.

So, don't wait any longer! By trying this recipe for oven roasted turkey with vegetables, you'll bring not only a delicious dish but also a warm and joyful atmosphere to your table. Enjoy your meal!