Servings: 8 slices
Calories: 250kcal
Equipment
- roasting tray
- Mixing bowl
- Oven
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
For the Turkey
- 5 kg Free-Range Turkey Choose a 5 kg turkey for better flavor
- 2 pieces Onions Stuff yellow or white onions inside for sweetness and moisture
- 1 piece Lemon Halve it for stuffing; substitute with lime if needed
- 4 cloves Garlic Fresh, halved garlic is key for flavor
- 200 g Smoked Streaky Bacon Helps keep the turkey moist; pancetta works as substitute
- 3 pieces Bay Leaves Essential for aromatics in the cavity
- 50 ml Olive Oil Drizzle over the turkey for crisping
- to taste Sea Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper Vital for seasoning both inside and out
For the Lemon, Parsley and Garlic Butter
- 250 g Butter Ensure it’s room temperature for easy mixing
- 4 cloves Garlic Fresh and crushed is essential
- 1 piece Lemon Zest Freshly grated is a must for vibrant taste
- 50 ml Lemon Juice Freshly juiced is required; avoid substitutes
- 30 g Flat-Leaf Parsley Adds fresh notes; chives or thyme can be used as alternatives
- 30 ml Additional Olive Oil Ensures a smooth blend of butter
Instructions
Main Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).
- In a mixing bowl, combine butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, and garlic. Stir until well blended.
- Season the turkey’s cavity with salt and pepper. Stuff it with halved onions, garlic, lemon, and bay leaves.
- Loosen the skin of the turkey and stuff the herbed butter underneath. Rub any leftover butter over the skin.
- Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting tray. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake at 220°C (428°F) for 10-15 minutes, then reduce temperature to 180°C (356°F) and roast for 2.5 hours, basting every 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let it rest for 45 minutes before carving.
Notes
Use a thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches a safe internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). Consider pairing with sage stuffing for added flavor.
Nutrition
Serving: 100g | Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 35g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 100mg | Sodium: 600mg | Potassium: 300mg | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 200IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 2mg
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