This Sous Vide Whole Turkey recipe is the secret to achieving a perfectly tender and juicy Thanksgiving centerpiece. By cooking the turkey low and slow in a water bath, you'll lock in all the flavors and ensure that every bite is moist and succulent. With a beautiful golden brown skin and tender meat, this sous vide turkey will impress your guests and become the star of your holiday table. Follow the step-by-step instructions below to create an unforgettable turkey experience.
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (10-12 pounds)
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
- Dried herbs (such as thyme, sage, and rosemary)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley and thyme), for garnish
Directions
- Preheat a sous vide water bath to 145°F (63°C).
- Rinse the turkey and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the cavity generously with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Carefully separate the skin from the breast and leg meat, being careful not to tear the skin.
- Rub half of the butter mixture under the skin, making sure to evenly distribute it over the meat.
- Truss the turkey with butcher's twine to keep its shape during cooking.
- Place the seasoned turkey in a large sous vide bag, ensuring it lies flat. Add the remaining butter mixture over the turkey.
- Seal the bag using a vacuum sealer or the water displacement method.
- Submerge the bagged turkey in the preheated water bath and cook for 8 hours.
- After 8 hours, carefully remove the turkey from the water bath and bag. Pat it dry with paper towels.
- Preheat the broiler to high.
- Transfer the turkey to a baking sheet lined with foil.
- Broil the turkey for 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the turkey from the broiler and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
Interesting Facts
Sous vide cooking ensures even cooking throughout the turkey, resulting in juicy meat from breast to leg.
The low-temperature water bath helps retain the natural flavors of the turkey and creates a tender texture.
Using sous vide also eliminates the risk of overcooking or undercooking the turkey, as the temperature is precisely controlled.