Experience the enticing aroma and exceptional flavors of Herb-Roasted Turkey, a delightful and elegant entree that is sure to impress your guests. This exquisite recipe, shared by Becky Goldsmith from Eden Prairie, Minnesota, showcases the natural goodness of a 14-pound turkey rubbed with a medley of garden-fresh herbs. As the turkey roasts, its enticing scent will beckon everyone into the kitchen, eager to indulge in the moist and flavorful masterpiece that awaits.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 turkey (14 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 18 sprigs fresh thyme, divided
- 4 medium onions, sliced
- 4 celery ribs, sliced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon peppercorns
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh sage or ½ teaspoon rubbed sage
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon minced chives
PREPARATIONS:
- Rub the surface of the turkey and sprinkle the cavity with salt and pepper. Place 12 sprigs of thyme in the cavity.
- In a large heavy roasting pan, place the sliced onions, celery, carrots, bay leaves, peppercorns, and the remaining thyme sprigs. Place the turkey, breast side up, over the vegetables. Drizzle melted butter over the turkey and sprinkle with minced herbs.
YIELD:
- Makes 12-14 servings.
PREP/BAKE TIME:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Bake time: 4 hours
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Baste the turkey every 20 minutes during the final roasting time to keep it moist and flavorful.
TIPS:
- For a delightful gravy, thicken the pan drippings after roasting and serve it alongside the Herb-Roasted Turkey.
In conclusion, Herb-Roasted Turkey is a culinary masterpiece that brings the inviting aroma of garden-fresh herbs to your kitchen. With this recipe from Becky Goldsmith in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, you can create an elegant and flavorful entree that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.
The careful preparation of the turkey, including rubbing it with salt and pepper and stuffing it with sprigs of fresh thyme, ensures that every bite is bursting with delightful flavors. As the turkey roasts in the oven, the enticing scent of the herbs will draw everyone into the kitchen, eagerly anticipating the moist and tender results.
The bed of sliced onions, celery, carrots, bay leaves, and peppercorns adds both flavor and moisture to the roasting process, enhancing the succulence of the turkey. The drizzle of melted butter and the sprinkling of minced fresh sage, thyme, and chives elevate the dish, infusing it with an extra layer of herbaceous goodness.
The final roasting process is key to achieving a perfectly cooked turkey. Basting the turkey every 20 minutes helps retain its moisture and ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
Once the Herb-Roasted Turkey is beautifully browned and cooked to perfection, allow it to rest before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in tender and juicy slices.
For an additional touch of indulgence, consider thickening the pan drippings to create a delectable gravy. This luscious sauce will beautifully complement the Herb-Roasted Turkey and add even more depth to the flavor profile.
In conclusion, Herb-Roasted Turkey is a culinary delight that epitomizes the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or a cozy family gathering, this elegant entree will bring smiles to faces and warm hearts with its enticing aroma and exceptional flavors.
