Delicious Apple Cider Roast Turkey Recipe

5 stars
4.66 (16)
Delicious Apple Cider Roast Turkey Recipe
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Total Time:
40mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on November 07, 2023

This apple cider roast turkey is a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday table. The turkey is marinated in a flavorful blend of apple cider, herbs, and spices, then roasted to perfection. The result is a juicy, tender, and flavorful bird with a beautifully crisp golden skin. Serve this delicious turkey with your favorite seasonal sides for a memorable feast.

Ingredients

  • 1 turkey (12-14 pounds)
  • 4 cups apple cider
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 2 apples, quartered
  • 1 lemon, halved

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity. Rinse the turkey thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the apple cider, melted butter, minced garlic, chopped sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
  4. Place the turkey in a roasting pan, breast side up. Pour the apple cider mixture all over the turkey, making sure to coat the entire bird, including the cavity.
  5. Stuff the turkey cavity with the quartered onion, apples, and lemon.
  6. Tent the turkey loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
  7. Roast the turkey for about 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
  8. Remove the foil tent during the last hour of cooking to allow the skin to crisp up and turn golden brown.
  9. Once the turkey is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender turkey.
  10. Carve the turkey and serve with your favorite side dishes and gravy.

Interesting Facts

  • Brining the turkey in apple cider helps to infuse it with flavor and keep it moist during roasting.
  • The combination of fresh herbs and spices gives the turkey a fragrant and savory taste.
  • Tenting the turkey with foil at the beginning of cooking helps to prevent the skin from getting too dark or burnt.
  • Letting the turkey rest after cooking ensures that the meat will be juicy and flavorful.
  • Leftover turkey can be used in sandwiches, salads, soups, and casseroles for delicious meals.