How To Cook Christmas Turkey: The Easiest Method

HOW TO COOK CHRISTMAS TURKEY: THE EASIEST METHOD

PHOTO STOCKFOOD


There are many ways to cook Christmas turkey. After much trial and error we've zeroed on the simplest way to cook turkey and get incredible results.

You won't need any special equipment other than a roasting pan. The ingredients are simple but yield a crispy-skinned juicy turkey. Ready to learn how to cook Christmas turkey our way?

HOW TO COOK CHRISTMAS TURKEY

The first step in cooking a Christmas turkey is to allow the bird to come to room temperature. If you've purchased a frozen turkey be sure to thaw it according to the package directions. Once thawed you'll need to rinse the turkey and pat it dry.

For the ultimate Christmas turkey we suggest making a rub. We've listed our chosen ingredients but feel free to adjust with your favorite spices. Also, keep in mind the amount of salt will vary on the size of the bird. Here is our recommended ratio: 1 teaspoon of salt per one pound (about 450g) of turkey.



This is what you'll need for a 14lb (6.35 kg) turkey:

1 stick (8oz) of softened unsalted butter
4 tbsp kosher salt
1/2 tbsp ground black pepper
1 tbsp dried thyme

For stuffing the cavity (these ingredients will add flavor and are not intended for consumption)
1 onion sliced in half
1 lemon sliced in half
a handful of parsley or cilantro

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 325F (160C)

1. Put all the ingredients for the rub in a small bowl. Mix with a fork until fully combined into a smooth paste. Rub this all over the turkey including under the skin. Stuff the cavity with the onion, lemon and herbs.

2. Place the turkey on a roasting rack. Tuck the wings underneath the turkey. Tie the legs togetherwith twine or with the turkey's own skin (watch the video below to learn how to do this):

3. Cover the roasting pan with foil. Roast covered for the first two hours. Then remove the foil and baste every 40 minutes. The total cooking time should be anywhere from 3 1/2 to 4 hours or until a meat thermometer inserted in the thickest part of the thigh reads 165F/80C (about 3 1/2 to 4 hours).

4. Allow the turkey to rest for 15 minutes before cutting into it. For a beautiful presentation serve the turkey on a bed of herbs or roasted vegetables.

*cooking times will vary according to size, a general rule of thumb is to cook the turkey 13 minutes per 500g (1.2 lbs)*



Now that you know how to cook Christmas turkey why not pick up some tips on carving your holiday bird? Just click here.

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