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The Best Roast Turkey Recipe

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Recipe Information

Recipe Available
Video-Specific Recipe

Roast Turkey

Cultural Context

Roast turkey is a staple of Canadian Thanksgiving, celebrated on the second Monday in October, and is often associated with harvest festivals. The dish symbolizes gratitude and abundance, bringing families together for a festive meal. While traditional recipes are common, many modern variations include unique marinades and stuffing, reflecting regional tastes and preferences.

North AmericanCAmain
180 min
medium
8 servings
Servings4
whole turkey
butter
salt
black pepper
garlic
onion
rosemary
thyme
sage
carrots
celery
chicken broth
lemon
bay leaves
olive oil

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil reduces saturated fat while adding flavor.

whole turkey

💰Cheaper: turkey breast

Turkey breast is less expensive and easier to cook.

chicken broth

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

Vegetable broth is lower in calories and suitable for vegetarians.

fresh herbs

💰Cheaper: dried herbs

Dried herbs are more accessible and have a longer shelf life.

1

Remove the neck and innards from the turkey cavity and set aside for stock and gravy.

2

Wash the turkey and pat it dry with paper towels.

3

Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C).

4

If the butter is not softened, cut it into pieces and microwave it for a few seconds to soften it.

5

Rub the softened butter all over the turkey on both sides and inside the cavity.

6

Tuck the wings under the turkey for a neater appearance.

7

Place the turkey breast side down on a baking sheet with a rack or on a makeshift foil circle if no rack is available.

8

Put the turkey in the heated oven on the middle or lower rack, ensuring there is space above it to prevent over-browning.

9

Cook for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the thigh reaches 160°F (71°C).

10

Use gloves to turn the turkey over and return it to the oven.

11

Cook for an additional hour until the thigh reaches 180°F (82°C) and the breast reaches 160°F (71°C).

12

The total cooking time for the 13 lb turkey is about 2 and 1/2 hours.

13

Cover the turkey loosely with foil and let it rest for about 15 minutes before carving.

Cooking Techniques

bastingroasting

Equipment Needed

baking sheetrackmicrowavealuminum foil

Spice Level:

🌶️🌶️🌶️

Dietary

gluten-free

Allergens

dairy

Also Known As

Thanksgiving TurkeyHoliday Turkey

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