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Perfect Roast Turkey

Perfect Roast Turkey

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Create an unforgettable centerpiece with this Perfect Roast Turkey recipe that’s sure to impress at any festive gathering. Infused with a flavorful brine of herbs and spices, this turkey emerges juicy and tender, evoking the comforting aromas of holiday traditions. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy family dinner, this dish is easy to prepare and guarantees second helpings. With straightforward steps and wholesome ingredients, even novice cooks will find joy in making this delicious roast. Gather your loved ones around the table and savor the moments created by this stunning culinary delight.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 turkey (12-14 pounds)
  • 1 cup kosher salt
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 quarts vegetable stock
  • 3 tablespoons melted butter
  • Fresh herbs (rosemary, sage, thyme)
  • 1 gallon of ice water
  • 2 stalks of celery with leaves roughly cut
  • 2 large carrots cleaned but not peeled, roughly cut
  • 1 medium onion, peeled and roughly cut
  • 2 quarts chicken stock
  • 1 bunch parsley with stems
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
  • 1 teaspoon whole allspice berries
  • 1 teaspoon juniper berries
  • 2 whole bay leaves
  • 3 whole medium garlic cloves, crushed
  • Peel of one large navel orange
  • 1 large apple chopped or crushed fine, core and all

Instructions

  1. Brine the Turkey: In a large pot, combine kosher salt, brown sugar, black peppercorns, allspice berries, juniper berries, rosemary, sage, thyme, bay leaves, garlic cloves, orange peel, chopped apple, and vegetable stock. Stir until dissolved. Add enough ice water to cover the turkey when submerged.
  2. Submerge and Chill: Place the turkey in the brine solution and refrigerate for about 14 hours.
  3. Preheat Oven: After brining, rinse the turkey under cold water. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  4. Prepare for Roasting: Pat the turkey dry and stuff the cavity with celery sticks, carrots, onion pieces, and parsley stems. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with kosher salt.
  5. Roast: Place the turkey in a roasting pan breast side up and roast until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (73°C), approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Nutrition