I know many of you may be thinking, why is she posting a recipe for turkey outside of the Thanksgiving holiday? Well, a few reasons, actually…. Turkey breast is quite a delicious and healthy alternative to chicken breast AND it’s a great meal rotation for spring. Mother’s day is right around the corner. Also, as we continue to see sky high pricing at the grocery store- turkey remains (along with pork) one of the lower priced meats for purchase. At the time I am writing this (Spring 2022), turkey is still a cheaper cut of meat to buy compared to beef and lamb. With Mother’s day right around the corner, I would implore you to try this recipe and serve up a warm feast of turkey paired with lemon zested brussel sprouts and an apple, feta & walnut salad (balsamic dressing). It’s truly that EASY.
As a first part of this recipe, I highly recommend that you use a roasting bag- it helps with keeping a whole turkey moist while cooking.
1 whole turkey (8-12 lb)
1 roasting bag
1 onion
2 carrots
2 ribs of celery
salt
pepper
poultry seasoning
butter 2-4 tablespoons
Start by pre-heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Most turkeys between 8-12lbs will need between 2.5-3.5 hours in a hot oven or until the internal temp reaches 165 degrees & the juices run clear. Ovens and bird size may vary so be sure to use a thermometer. Start by using a fresh bird or a bird that is thawed with giblets removed. Gently start by massaging the butter in between the turkey skin and breast until the entire bird has been covered. Next, take a healthy amount of poultry seasoning, salt and pepper and sprinkle over the outside skin of the turkey. Remember to salt and pepper the inside cavity of the bird as well. Next, chop the onion, carrot and celery into large chunks. Place the bird inside of the roasting bag along with the carrot, onion and celery around the bird. Seal up the bag and then place entire turkey, breast side up, on a roasting rack and roasting pan. Place in hot oven and cook for 2.5-3.5 hrs. Serve hot and reserve juices in bottom of pan/bag for homemade gravy. Enjoy!
