Mouthwatering Roast Turkey Recipe Guaranteed To Please
Roasted turkey is a mouthwatering meal usually served at Easter gatherings, yet turkey is a tasty meal anytime. Keep this roast turkey recipe handy as it is a simple method for preparing a dinner the family will love.
Shop for a plump turkey that weighs about 17 pounds. After defrosting, remove giblets and the neck out of the bird. Wash the entire turkey inside and out and thoroughly dry it. Using kosher salt, rub the entire bird. Combine in a small-sized bowl: two teaspoons dried thyme, two teaspoons ground sage, one tablespoon dried rosemary and one teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Fresh ground pepper is best if you have a pepper mill. Using this spice mixture, rub it into the cavities. Save some of this spice mixture for use later.
Loosely pack the cavity with your favorite sage and onion stuffing. When completed truss or sew the cavity shut. Using small lacing skewers and cotton string to close the cavity is another suggestion on how to close the cavity. Tuck the wings in and tuck in the loose skin at the back of the bird.
To provide extra flavor, wrap bacon around the wings and thighs. Melt some butter and brush the turkey then sprinkle the bird with some garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper.
Roast the turkey uncovered at 375 degrees basting frequently with turkey or chicken broth, or if these are not available then use the pan juices. After about one hour, baste and sprinkle with the remaining spice mixture. Make a tent with aluminum foil and loosely cover the turkey breast. Reduce oven to 325 degrees and roast for another hour basting occasionally.
Remove the foil and continue roasting until a thermometer reading (inserted into the thickest portion of the thigh) reads 165 degrees. When the turkey is golden brown and finished cooking, allow it to sit for 17 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite turkey gravy, vegetables and enjoy!