Description
This recipe involves roasting a turkey crown seasoned with herb-infused butter and surrounded by vegetables and citrus. The crown is basted during cooking to lock in moisture, resulting in tender meat and a beautiful finish. It’s ideal for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any special family meal.
Ingredients
For the Turkey Crown
- Turkey Crown (2.5-3kg): Serves 6-8 people.
- Butter (150g, softened): Adds richness and locks in moisture.
- Fresh Rosemary (2 sprigs): Adds a fragrant, earthy flavor.
- Fresh Thyme (2 sprigs): For a classic savory touch.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuse the turkey with aromatic depth.
- Zest of 1 Lemon: Adds a refreshing citrus note.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
For the Roasting Tray
- Onion (1, quartered): Adds sweetness to the juices.
- Carrot (1, roughly chopped): Contributes to the base flavors.
- Celery (1 stalk, roughly chopped): Adds depth to the pan juices.
- Chicken or Turkey Stock (250ml): Prevents the turkey from drying out and helps create a flavorful base for gravy.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 2: Prepare the herb butter
In a bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Prepare the turkey crown
Pat the turkey crown dry with paper towels. Gently loosen the skin from the breast meat using your fingers or a spatula, being careful not to tear it. Spread half of the herb butter under the skin and the remaining butter over the skin for even coverage.
Step 4: Prepare the roasting tray
Place the onion, carrot, and celery in the roasting tray. Pour in the chicken or turkey stock. Set the turkey crown on top of the vegetables.
Step 5: Roast the turkey crown
Place the roasting tray in the preheated oven. Roast the turkey crown for 20 minutes per kilogram plus an additional 20 minutes. Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the juices from the tray to keep it moist.
Step 6: Check for doneness
Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey crown. It is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
Step 7: Rest the turkey
Remove the turkey from the oven and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 20-30 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Step 8: Carve and serve
Carve the turkey crown into slices and serve warm with your favorite sides.