Baked turkey: all secrets to be juicy and tender

Today we're going to talk about a culinary gem, a classic at many family dinners and celebrations. We're talking about roast turkey, a generously sized delicacy that, while it may sound simple, requires some tricks when preparing it.

To make a good roast turkey, you have to season it and cook it with love. That's key, because no one wants a dry, unpalatable turkey.

So here comes a gastronomic journey with everything: history, techniques, secrets, and a roast turkey recipe worthy of applause.

About the Roast Turkey

Talking about roast turkey means diving headfirst into the realm of recipes that require patience , but in return deliver an unforgettable experience.

This dish is characterized by lean meat and golden, crispy skin . To achieve a juicy , flavorful roast turkey seasoning, temperature, and cooking time .

The tradition of eating roast turkey

The origin of roasting turkey in the oven dates back to the pre-Columbian cultures of the Americas, where this bird was already consumed long before Europeans set foot on the continent. With the arrival of the conquistadors, the turkey crossed the Atlantic and became a delicacy in European courts .

Today, in many parts of the world, roast turkey is synonymous with celebration , family gatherings, and banquets . In Spain, for example, although lamb and suckling pig are the kings of Christmas, more and more families are joining the roast turkey trend.

7 Characteristics of Roast Turkey

1. Deep, spicy flavor : Thanks to the marinade and slow cooking, roast turkey develops an intense flavor that permeates every bite.
2. Juicy texture : If cooked correctly, roast turkey is tender and juicy .
3. Golden, crispy skin : Butter and baking at the right temperature create an crispy skin .
4. Versatility in the stuffing : You can make stuffed turkey , and fill it with fruit, meat, nuts or bread, which gives a personalized touch to each preparation.
5. Enveloping aroma : The scent of herbs, garlic and butter fills the kitchen while baking.
6. Ideal for sharing : Its large size makes it perfect for family gatherings and events.
7. Supports multiple side dishes : From purees to salads and sauces , roast turkey combines with a wide variety of accompaniments.

The best side dishes for roast turkey

A good roast turkey deserves side dishes that complement its flavor and texture. Here are some options:

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes : Smooth, buttery, and with a hint of nutmeg, this is the classic side dish that never fails.
2. Roasted vegetables : Carrots, zucchini, peppers and onions , caramelized in the oven and add natural sweetness to the dish.
3. Spanish Sauce : The perfect complement to add moisture and enhance the flavor of roast turkey.
4. Apple and Walnut Salad : A Waldorf salad , it provides a light and delicious contrast.
5. Baked potatoes with rosemary : Golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and flavored with fresh herbs.
6. Baked asparagus : An ideal vegetable that has presence, without invading the intensity of the roast turkey.

Keys to a perfect roast turkey

1. The marinade is everything : Don't skimp on spices, herbs, and a good touch of garlic. Marinating it overnight is key to ensuring it absorbs the flavors.
2. Butter and more butter : Don't skimp. Brushing with butter (or olive oil) helps the skin turn golden and crispy.
3. Tricky filling : If it has filling, make sure it's not too dense to allow the heat to circulate well and cook evenly.
4. Time and temperature : The recipe for cooking a turkey in the oven is 40 minutes per kilo, at 180°C . If you have a thermometer, the perfect temperature is when the internal meat reaches 75°C.
5. Juice bath : Every half hour, spray it with a good broth and a mixture of its own juices, so that it does not dry out.
6. Sacred Rest : When you take it out of the oven, let the roast turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving so that the juices can redistribute.
7. The thermometer, an ally : To avoid mistakes, a kitchen thermometer indicates with certainty whether the turkey is cooked to perfection.

3 Ways to Tell if Your Roast Turkey Is Cooked Without a Thermometer

If you don't have a cooking thermometer, there are a couple of tricks to ensure your roast turkey is cooked thoroughly;

1. A classic way to do this is to pierce the thickest part of the thigh with a sharp knife or toothpick: if the juices run clear and not pink, it's a sign it's ready.
2. Another method is to wiggle the leg ; if it comes away easily from the body, the turkey is cooked thoroughly.
3. The fork test. If the meat shreds easily, it's time to remove it from the oven . (Of course, it's best to calculate the cooking time carefully.)

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Baked Turkey Recipe

Yields: 8-10 servings

Preparation time: 3 to 4 hours and 30 minutes (depending on the weight of the turkey)

Ingredients

• 1 turkey of 4-5 kg
• 200g melted butter
• 4 chopped garlic cloves
• 2 or 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup of broth (chicken or vegetable)
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 lemon, halved
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 celery branch

How to make a roast turkey step by step

1. Preheat oven to high temperature (180°C).
2. Mix the melted butter with the garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub the turkey with this mixture, making sure to get well under the skin.
3. Place the onion, lemon, carrot and celery inside the turkey.
4. Tie the turkey's legs with kitchen string and place it on a baking tray.
5. Pour the broth into the baking dish and bake for 40 minutes per pound. Baste the turkey with its own juices approximately every 30 minutes.
6. Once the time has passed, check with a thermometer or a knife, remove from the oven and let stand for 30 minutes.
7. Cut and serve with the chosen garnish.