Introduction
The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and, of course, delicious food. One of the most iconic dishes that graces the Christmas table is the herb-roasted turkey. This dish is not only a centerpiece but also a symbol of festive cheer and culinary excellence. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps to create a perfect herb-roasted turkey that will impress your guests and make your holiday meal unforgettable.
Why Choose Herb-Roasted Turkey?
Herb-roasted turkey is a classic choice for several reasons:
- Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs and butter creates a rich, aromatic flavor that permeates the meat.
- Moisture: Proper roasting techniques ensure the turkey remains juicy and tender.
- Presentation: A beautifully roasted turkey is a stunning centerpiece for any holiday table.
Introduction
10
servings30
minutes3
hours461.4
kcalIngredients
1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 onion, quartered
1 lemon, halved
4 cups chicken broth
Directions
- Rub the Herb Butter: Gently lift the skin of the turkey and rub the herb butter underneath, directly onto the meat. This helps to flavor the meat and keep it moist. Rub the remaining herb butter all over the outside of the turkey.
- Stuff the Turkey: Place the quartered onion and halved lemon inside the cavity of the turkey. These aromatics will add additional flavor as the turkey roasts.
- Prepare the Roasting Pan: Place the turkey on a roasting rack inside a large roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. This will create steam and help keep the turkey moist.
- Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey in the preheated oven. Roast the turkey, basting occasionally with the pan juices, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This will take approximately 3-4 hours, depending on the size of your turkey.
- Rest the Turkey: Once the turkey reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it stays moist.
Serving Suggestions and Quick Side Dish Recipes
Herb-roasted turkey pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to complete your holiday meal:
Mashed Potatoes
- Ingredients: 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter; salt and pepper to taste.
- Instructions: Boil potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Cranberry Sauce
- Ingredients: 1 cup sugar; 1 cup water; 4 cups fresh cranberries.
- Instructions: Bring sugar and water to a boil. Add cranberries and cook until they burst, about 10 minutes. Let cool.
Stuffing
- Ingredients: 1 loaf of bread, cubed; 1 onion, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1/2 cup butter; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon sage; salt and pepper to taste.
- Instructions: Sauté onion and celery in butter. Mix with bread cubes, broth, sage, salt, and pepper. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Green Bean Casserole
- Ingredients: 4 cups green beans, trimmed and blanched; 1 can cream of mushroom soup; 1/2 cup milk; 1 cup French fried onions; 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Instructions: Mix green beans, soup, and milk in a baking dish. Top with onions and cheese. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Ingredients: 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; salt and pepper to taste.
- Instructions: Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Gravy
- Ingredients: Pan drippings from turkey; 1/4 cup flour; 2 cups chicken broth; salt and pepper to taste.
- Instructions: Pour pan drippings into a saucepan. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add broth, whisking constantly, until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
