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Perfect Roast Turkey

Perfect Roast Turkey

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Create a Perfect Roast Turkey that will be the highlight of any gathering, whether it’s a festive holiday meal or a cozy family dinner. This recipe ensures a juicy and flavorful turkey, brined to perfection with aromatic herbs and spices. The delightful scent wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly anticipating the feast. With simple instructions and helpful tips, even novice cooks can master this classic dish. Impress your guests and create lasting memories around the table with this succulent roast turkey!

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the brine by dissolving salt, brown sugar, peppercorns, allspice berries, juniper berries, rosemary, sage, thyme, bay leaves, garlic cloves, orange peel, chopped apple, and vegetable stock in a large pot. Add enough ice water to fully submerge the turkey.
  2. Brine the turkey overnight for maximum flavor.
  3. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the turkey from the brine; rinse and pat dry.
  4. Rub melted butter over the turkey and season inside with kosher salt. Optionally stuff with herbs or apples.
  5. Place turkey in a roasting pan with vegetables and pour in chicken stock. Roast until golden brown (approximately 2 hours) while basting occasionally.
  6. Let rest for 20 minutes before carving.

Nutrition