Description
A turkey crown is the breast of the turkey still on the bone, offering a simpler and quicker alternative to roasting a whole bird. The Hairy Bikers’ recipe enhances the natural flavors of the turkey with a herb-infused butter, ensuring moist meat and crispy, golden skin.
Ingredients
For the turkey
- Turkey Crown (2-3kg): Serves 6-8 people, adjust size for your needs.
- Butter (100g, softened): For keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
- Fresh Thyme (2 tsp): Adds a subtle herby aroma.
- Fresh Rosemary (2 tsp, finely chopped): Enhances the flavor of the turkey.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the butter with depth of flavor.
- Zest of 1 Lemon: Adds brightness and freshness.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
For Roasting
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Helps achieve golden, crispy skin.
- Onion (1, quartered): Adds flavor to the roasting tray.
- Carrot (1, roughly chopped): Contributes to a flavorful base.
- Celery (1 stalk, roughly chopped): Adds depth to the juices.
- Chicken or Turkey Stock (250ml): Prevents the turkey from drying out and creates a base for gravy.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and position the rack in the center.
Step 2: Prepare the herb butter
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Prepare the turkey crown
Place the turkey crown on a roasting tray. Use your fingers to gently loosen the skin from the breast meat, being careful not to tear it. Spread half of the herb butter under the skin and the other half on top of the skin. Drizzle the turkey with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Add vegetables to the tray
Scatter the onion, carrot, and celery around the turkey in the roasting tray. Pour the stock into the tray to keep the turkey moist during cooking.
Step 5: Roast the turkey crown
Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes per kilogram, plus an additional 20 minutes. Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the juices in the tray.
Step 6: Check for doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the breast. It should read 74°C (165°F) when fully cooked.
Step 7: Rest the turkey
Remove the turkey from the oven and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Step 8: Serve
Carve the turkey crown into slices and serve warm with your favorite sides.