Entree: United States – North America – Herb-Roasted Turkey

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 30 min

Cook 2 hrs

Additional 24 hrs

Total 26 hrs

Ingredients

- 1 whole turkey, approx. 8 lb (3.6 kg) total
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) kosher salt (for dry brine)
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) brown sugar (for dry brine)
- 6 tbsp (90 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) chopped fresh sage
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) chopped fresh rosemary
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) chopped fresh thyme
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 large onion, halved
- 2 carrots, cut into large pieces
- 2 celery stalks, cut into large pieces
- 2 cups (480 ml) low-sodium turkey or chicken stock (for basting and gravy)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) white wine (optional, for pan)
- 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour (for gravy)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup (240 ml) cranberry sauce (optional accompaniment)

Instructions

1. Two days ahead, combine 2 tbsp (30 ml) kosher salt and 1 tbsp (15 ml) brown sugar; pat turkey dry and rub the mixture all over the skin and inside the cavity; refrigerate uncovered on a rack for 24–48 hours.
2. The morning of roasting, rinse off excess salt and pat turkey dry. Mix softened butter with herbs, garlic, and lemon zest. Gently loosen skin over the breasts and spread half the compound butter under the skin; rub remaining butter over the skin.
3. Place onion, carrots, and celery in the roasting pan and set the turkey breast-side up on a rack; add 1/4 cup (60 ml) wine or 1/2 cup (120 ml) stock to the pan to keep drippings from burning.
4. Roast at 325°F (163°C). For an 8 lb (3.6 kg) turkey, roast approximately 13–15 minutes per pound until breast reaches 165°F (74°C); baste occasionally with pan juices or stock.
5. Remove turkey and rest tented for 20–30 minutes. Meanwhile, make gravy by removing fat from pan drippings leaving about 2 tbsp (30 ml); place pan on medium heat, whisk in 1/4 cup (30 g) flour to make a roux, gradually whisk in 2 cups (480 ml) stock, cook until thickened and season to taste.
6. Carve and serve with gravy and cranberry sauce if desired.