This recipe will guide you through the process of creating a succulent and juicy turkey delight. With a perfect balance of flavors and a crispy golden skin, this dish is perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. The turkey is seasoned to perfection and roasted until tender, while the stuffing adds an extra element of flavor. Serve it with cranberry sauce and mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (12-15 pounds)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups bread crumbs
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped mushrooms
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Rinse the turkey well and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Season the turkey inside and out with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, dried thyme, dried sage, and dried rosemary.
- Rub the butter and herb mixture over the turkey, making sure to coat it thoroughly.
- In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they become translucent.
- Add the chopped celery, carrots, and mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they soften.
- Transfer the vegetable mixture to a large bowl and mix in the bread crumbs and chicken broth.
- Stuff the turkey cavity with the vegetable stuffing mixture. Use kitchen twine to secure the legs and wings of the turkey.
- Place the stuffed turkey on a rack in a roasting pan, breast-side up.
- Cover the turkey with aluminum foil, tucking it tightly around the pan.
- Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Remove the foil from the turkey for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the skin to brown and crisp up.
- Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
- Carve the turkey and serve it with cranberry sauce and mashed potatoes for a delightful meal.
Interesting Facts
Turkey is a traditional food for Thanksgiving in the United States.
The average American consumes around 16 pounds of turkey per year.
Wild turkeys can fly at speeds of up to 55 miles per hour.
Turkey meat is low in fat and a good source of protein.
The wishbone of a turkey is traditionally used in a wish-making ritual.