Description
A turkey crown is a whole turkey without the legs and wings, making it quicker to cook and easier to carve. Mary Berry’s recipe uses a herb butter infused with garlic and lemon, basted over the turkey for a succulent and aromatic main course.
Ingredients
For the turkey
- Turkey Crown (2-3kg): Serves 6-8 people, adjust size for your needs.
- Butter (100g, softened): Adds flavor and keeps the turkey moist.
- Fresh Thyme (2 tsp): For a fragrant, herby flavor.
- Fresh Rosemary (2 tsp, finely chopped): Adds a classic savory touch.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the turkey with rich flavor.
- Zest of 1 Lemon: Brighten the dish with a citrusy note.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
For Roasting
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Helps crisp up the skin.
- Onion (1, quartered): Adds flavor to the roasting tray.
- Carrot (1, roughly chopped): Enhances the juices.
- Celery (1 stalk, roughly chopped): Adds depth to the roasting flavors.
- Chicken or Turkey Stock (250ml): Prevents dryness 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, garlic, rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Prepare the turkey crown
Place the turkey crown on a roasting tray. Carefully loosen the skin from the breast meat using your fingers, being cautious not to tear it. Spread half of the herb butter under the skin and the remaining butter over the top. Drizzle olive oil over the turkey and season with additional 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 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 breast. The turkey 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: Serve
Carve the turkey into slices and serve warm with your favorite sides.