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Perfect Roast Turkey

Perfect Roast Turkey

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Create a memorable holiday experience with this Perfect Roast Turkey recipe that guarantees juicy, flavorful results. Ideal for Thanksgiving, family gatherings, or any special occasion, this turkey features a savory brining process that infuses the meat with rich herbs and spices. The result? A succulent bird with crispy skin that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s easy enough for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs to master. Prepare it ahead of time to focus on your favorite side dishes and enjoy quality time with loved ones!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 turkey (12-14 pounds)
  • 1 cup kosher salt
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 quarts vegetable stock
  • 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
  • 1 gallon of ice water, or more as needed to cover turkey during the brining process
  • 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
  • 2 quarts chicken stock
  • 1 bunch parsley with stems
  • 3 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the brine by combining kosher salt, brown sugar, black peppercorns, allspice berries, juniper berries, and fresh herbs in vegetable stock. Heat until dissolved and let cool.
  2. Submerge the turkey in the cooled brine solution overnight.
  3. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse turkey under cold water and pat dry.
  4. Place chopped vegetables in a roasting pan and set the turkey on top. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with kosher salt.
  5. Roast until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), basting every 30 minutes.
  6. Let rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.

Nutrition