Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and, of course, indulging in a feast that leaves your taste buds dancing with joy. If you’re looking to elevate your Thanksgiving dinner to new heights, consider trying this mouthwatering recipe for Herb-Roasted Turkey with Cranberry-Orange Glaze. This delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors will undoubtedly become a new holiday tradition at your table.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chicken or turkey broth
- For the Cranberry-Orange Glaze:
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup orange marmalade
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Instructions:
- Prepare the Turkey:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Rinse the turkey inside and out, and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan.
- Herb Butter Rub:
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Gently lift the turkey’s skin and rub the herb butter mixture under the skin and all over the outside of the turkey.
- Roasting:
- Place the turkey in the preheated oven and roast uncovered. For a 12-14 pound turkey, the cooking time is approximately 3 to 3.5 hours.
- Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the pan juices and chicken or turkey broth.
- Cranberry-Orange Glaze:
- While the turkey is roasting, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, orange marmalade, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard.
- Cook over medium heat until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened. Set aside.
- Final Touch:
- In the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the turkey with a generous layer of the Cranberry-Orange Glaze.
- Continue roasting until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Resting and Serving:
- Once the turkey is done, let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful turkey.
- Serve the Herb-Roasted Turkey with additional Cranberry-Orange Glaze on the side for those who want an extra burst of flavor.
This Herb-Roasted Turkey with Cranberry-Orange Glaze is sure to be the star of your Thanksgiving table. The aromatic herbs, savory butter, and sweet-tart glaze create a harmonious symphony of flavors that will leave your guests raving. Embrace the joy of cooking and sharing a delicious meal with your loved ones this Thanksgiving. Happy feasting!
