Roast Turkey with Homemade Cranberry Sauce

This classic roast turkey recipe is perfect for a holiday meal for two. The tender and juicy turkey is flavored with a blend of herbs and spices, and served with a homemade cranberry sauce that adds a tangy and sweet burst of flavor. In just a few hours, you can create a memorable and hearty holiday feast for you and your loved one.

Ingredients

• 1 whole turkey (10-12 pounds)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 orange, zest and juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse the turkey inside and out, and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the butter, rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
4. Rub the butter mixture all over the turkey, including under the skin.
5. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan.
6. Roast the turkey for about 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
7. While the turkey is roasting, prepare the cranberry sauce.
8. In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, orange zest, and orange juice.
9. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly.
10. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry.
11. Add the slurry to the cranberry sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
12. Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
13. Serve the turkey with the homemade cranberry sauce and enjoy!

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