Ingredients
– 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 2 oranges, zested and juiced
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
– 4 sprigs fresh thyme
– 4 sprigs fresh sage
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
– Black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (for basting)
– Olive oil (for drizzling)
Instructions
Creating the perfect Citrus Herb Turkey involves a few simple steps. Follow this guide for amazing results:
1. Thaw the Turkey: If frozen, leave your turkey in the refrigerator 2-3 days before cooking.
2. Prepare the Herb Mixture: In a bowl, combine softened butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, orange juice, orange zest, garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, and sage. Stir well.
3. Season the Turkey: Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Generously season the cavity and skin with salt and pepper.
4. Apply the Herb Butter: Gently separate the skin from the turkey breast without tearing it. Spread half of the herb butter mixture under the skin, and the remaining on the outer surface.
5. Brine (Optional): If time permits, submerge the turkey in a brine solution overnight for enhanced flavor and moisture retention.
6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
7. Prepare for Roasting: Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. This helps keep the turkey moist and creates a flavorful drippings for gravy.
8. Roast the Turkey: Tent the turkey loosely with aluminum foil. Roast in the preheated oven for 1.5 hours.
9. Baste the Turkey: Occasionally, baste the turkey with the broth every 30 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 30-45 minutes of cooking for a crisp skin.
10. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast and thigh.
11. Rest the Turkey: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving. This keeps the juices locked in.
12. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with additional fresh herbs and citrus slices for a stunning presentation.
By following these clear instructions, you’ll be able to create an extraordinary Citrus Herb Turkey that is both delicious and visually stunning.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 to 3 hours
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 10-12
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 27g
- Protein: 60g