Roast Turkey

Roast turkey – a traditional recipe that brings joy and warmth to any household

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 3-4 hours
Total time: 3 hours 30 minutes - 4 hours 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Who doesn't dream of a juicy, perfectly browned turkey roast that becomes the centerpiece of the holiday table? The roast turkey recipe is an excellent choice for special occasions, as well as for a family meal on the weekend. This dish is not only delicious but also brings a touch of nostalgia, reminding us of moments spent with loved ones.

Basic ingredients and their benefits

To prepare a delicious turkey, you need the following ingredients:

- 1 turkey (3-4 kg)
- 500 ml white wine
- 50 g salt
- 50 g pepper
- 4-5 bay leaves
- 1 apple (for a subtle taste)
- 1 package of butter (about 250 g)
- Basil (to taste)
- 5 g paprika

Turkey is rich in protein and low in fat, making it a healthy choice for festive meals. The white wine adds a touch of finesse, while the butter contributes to the juiciness of the meat. Basil and paprika bring Mediterranean flavors that enrich the dish.

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the turkey: Wash the turkey well under cold running water. Pat it dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess water. This step is essential for achieving a crispy crust.

2. Seasoning: Rub the turkey with room temperature butter, ensuring it covers the entire surface of the meat. Generously season with salt, pepper, basil, and paprika. These flavors will infuse the meat during baking, giving it a unique taste.

3. Preparing the pan: Place the turkey in a large roasting pan, putting two pieces of wood underneath to prevent sticking. Add water to the pan, covering about 1 cm of the bottom. The water will help maintain moisture and prevent the meat from burning.

4. Baking: Preheat the oven to 160-180°C. Place the pan with the turkey in the oven and let it bake slowly for 3-4 hours. It is important not to increase the temperature, as slow cooking allows the meat to become tender and juicy.

5. Caring for the turkey: During baking, baste the turkey with butter and white wine every 30 minutes. This step will enhance the flavor and help form a delicious crust.

6. Finishing: When the turkey is browned and beautiful, check if it is cooked using a kitchen thermometer. The internal temperature should be about 75°C. Once ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.

Serving and suggestions

Roast turkey is served warm, accompanied by various side dishes such as fresh salads, mashed potatoes, or sautéed vegetables. An excellent combination is with a cabbage salad or an apple and walnut salad, which will add a crunchy contrast. Don't forget to bring to the table a horseradish sauce with vinegar, which will perfectly complement the flavor of the meat.

Also, a dry white wine is the ideal choice to accompany the turkey roast, highlighting the flavors and adding elegance to your meal.

Variations and tips

You can experiment with different spices and herbs according to your preferences. For example, adding garlic or lemon inside the turkey can provide an unusual taste. You can also use a mixture of Provençal herbs for a Mediterranean touch.

If you prefer a quicker version, you can opt for turkey portions (thighs or breast) instead of a whole turkey. The baking time will be significantly reduced, and the result will be just as delicious.

Frequently asked questions

What to do if the turkey is too dry?
Make sure to baste it frequently with wine and butter. If it still happens to be dry, a sauce made from meat juices or a honey mustard glaze can improve the texture.

How can I tell if the turkey is cooked?
Use a kitchen thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be 75°C.

Can I prepare the turkey in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the turkey a day in advance, seasoning it and leaving it in the refrigerator. The next day, you can bake it directly.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of turkey (about 100g) contains around 165 calories, being an excellent source of protein (about 30g). It is also rich in B vitamins, which help with energy metabolism and maintaining a healthy nervous system.

Conclusion

Preparing a roast turkey is a rewarding experience, bringing not only a delicious dish but also unforgettable moments with loved ones. With patience and love, this turkey will surely become the star of your meals. Don't forget to experiment with different flavors and sides to personalize it to your taste! Enjoy your meal!