Discover a delightful recipe for Herb-Infused Cranberry Roast Turkey, blending savory herbs with tangy cranberries for a festive feast. Perfect for any celebration!
Herb-Infused Cranberry Roast Turkey: A Flavorful Feast for Any Celebration
Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering calls for a show-stopping main dish, and what better way to wow your guests than with a Herb-Infused Cranberry Roast Turkey? This dish combines the classic rich flavor of roast turkey with the zesty sweetness of cranberries, all complemented by a fragrant blend of fresh herbs. Whether it’s your first time hosting or you’re looking to elevate your traditional menu, this turkey recipe promises tenderness, juiciness, and a burst of flavors in every bite. Gather your apron and roasting pan, and let’s dive into this delightful culinary adventure!
Ingredients
For the Turkey and Brine:
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds), thawed if frozen
- 1 gallon water
- 1 cup sea salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 sprig fresh sage
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
For the Herb Butter:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cranberry Glaze:
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
Additional:
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Kitchen twine
- Aluminum foil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Brine
- In a large pot, combine water, sea salt, brown sugar, onion, garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, and black peppercorns. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar have dissolved.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool completely to room temperature.
- Once cooled, place the turkey in a large brining bag or container and pour the brine over it, ensuring the turkey is fully submerged. Add fresh cranberries to the brine.
- Seal the bag or cover the container and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours.
Step 2: Prepare the Herb Butter
- In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare and Roast the Turkey
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Remove the turkey from the brine and rinse under cold running water. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Carefully separate the skin from the breast meat using your fingers. Be gentle to avoid tearing.
- Spread half of the herb butter mixture underneath the skin of the turkey breast, and the remaining half over the outside of the turkey.
- Tuck the wing tips under the body of the bird and tie the legs together with kitchen twine.
- Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Brush lightly with olive oil.
- Insert an ovenproof meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, without touching the bone.
- Roast the turkey in the preheated oven. Cooking time will depend on the size of the bird; typically, allow 13 minutes per pound for unstuffed turkey. Baste occasionally with pan juices.
Step 4: Prepare the Cranberry Glaze
- While the turkey is roasting, prepare the cranberry glaze. In a small saucepan, combine cranberry juice, fresh cranberries, honey or maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly, about 10-15 minutes.
- Allow to cool slightly, then blend until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish the Turkey
- About 30 minutes before the turkey is done, brush the cranberry glaze generously over the turkey.
- Continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.
- If the turkey starts to brown too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil.
- Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.
Conclusion
Your Herb-Infused Cranberry Roast Turkey is now ready to take center stage at your celebration. The combination of savory herbs and sweet-tart cranberries beautifully enhances the succulent turkey, making every bite a memorable experience. Pair this fabulous dish with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a feast that will keep your guests talking long after the plates are cleared. Enjoy your flavorful creation, and embrace the joyful spirit of sharing a lovingly prepared meal with those you cherish.