Stuffed turkey

Stuffed turkey with apples and celery - A traditional recipe for holiday meals

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8

In the culinary world, stuffed turkey is a symbol of holidays and family gatherings. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the natural flavors of turkey with sweet and spicy notes, creating an unforgettable dish. The apple and celery stuffing adds a touch of freshness, while the red wine completes the ensemble, turning every bite into an explosion of flavors. Let’s discover together how to prepare this delicious turkey, step by step!

Ingredients:
- 1 turkey (approximately 4-5 kg)
- 1 medium celery root (approximately 300 g)
- 2 apples (preferably sweet-sour varieties, such as Golden or Granny Smith)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 250 ml red wine (choose a quality wine that you like)
- 2 tablespoons herbs de Provence
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oregano (optional, to taste)

Necessary utensils:
- A large mixing bowl
- An oven cooking bag
- A baking tray
- A sharp knife
- A wooden spoon

Step by step: Preparing the stuffed turkey

1. Preparing the turkey: Start by thawing the turkey if it is frozen. It is essential to let it thaw completely, preferably in the refrigerator, for 24 hours. Once thawed, wash the turkey well both inside and out with cold water.

2. Preparing the stuffing: Peel the two apples and cut them into cubes. Then, peel the celery root and slice it thinly. These ingredients will provide a sweet flavor and a pleasant texture to the turkey. You can also add other ingredients to the stuffing, such as nuts or raisins, for an extra burst of flavor.

3. Preparing the sauce: In a bowl, combine the red wine, herbs de Provence, paprika, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Mix well until you achieve a smooth emulsion. If desired, you can also add oregano, especially if you are a fan of Mediterranean flavors.

4. Stuffing the turkey: Place the apple cubes, celery slices, and peeled small onion inside the turkey. These will help infuse the meat with delicious flavors during baking.

5. Basting the turkey: Pour the previously prepared sauce over the turkey, making sure to cover it evenly, including inside. This will help maintain juiciness and enhance the flavors.

6. Preparing for baking: Place the turkey in an oven cooking bag. This will retain moisture and make the meat more tender. Don’t forget to poke the bag in several places to allow steam to escape. Place the turkey in a baking tray.

7. Baking the turkey: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Bake the turkey for about 2 hours. Cooking time may vary depending on the weight of the turkey, so it is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. When the temperature reaches 75°C, the turkey is ready.

8. Cooling and serving: After the turkey is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 15-20 minutes before carving. This step is essential for maintaining the juiciness of the meat. Serve the turkey alongside sides such as mashed potatoes, green salad, or grilled vegetables.

Practical tips:
- Choose a quality turkey, preferably from local farmers, for superior flavor.
- You can experiment with different flavors by adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the stuffing.
- If you want to achieve a crispy crust, you can open the bag in the last 30 minutes of baking.

Nutritional information:
A stuffed turkey is an excellent source of protein and B vitamins. It is a healthy choice, especially when served with fresh vegetables. A serving of turkey provides approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of meat? Of course! This recipe can also be adapted for chicken or duck.
2. How can I store leftover turkey? It is recommended to store it in the refrigerator, covered, and consume it within 3-4 days.
3. What sides go best with it? Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or fresh salads are excellent choices to accompany the stuffed turkey.

Serving suggestions: You can serve the stuffed turkey with a cranberry sauce or a salad of arugula and parmesan, which will add a touch of freshness and a pleasant contrast of flavors.

This recipe for stuffed turkey with apples and celery is perfect for holiday meals, but also for those moments when you want to treat yourself to a special meal. Try this recipe and let the flavors transform every meal into a celebration!