The holiday season is incomplete without a delicious Christmas turkey. It's the centerpiece of the festive table and a staple in many households. However, the thought of preparing a whole turkey can be daunting, especially for those who have never attempted it before. Fret not, as we have the perfect recipe for an unstuffed Christmas turkey that is sure to impress your guests and make your holiday feast a success.
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Butter, Salt, Peppers, Celery, Onion, Carrots
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Main Ingredients: Turkey, Sage, Garlic Cloves, Lemons, Lemon, Olive Oil
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Main Ingredients: Turkey, Sage Leaves, Thyme Sprigs, Fresh Rosemary
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Main Ingredients: Turkey, Smoked Streaky Bacon, Butter, Lemons, Garlic
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Main Ingredients: Turkey, Unsalted Butter, Lemon, Fresh Flat Leaf
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Main Ingredients: Turkey, I Can T Believe It S Not Butter R Spread
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Main Ingredients: Turkey, Maple Syrup, Fresh Sage, Bacon, Chicken Stock
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Main Ingredients: Turkey, Bread Cubes, Stuffing Mix, Chopped Celery
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Main Ingredients: Turkey, Onion, Garlic, Cloves, Lemon, Orange, Rub
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Main Ingredients: Cold Water, Kosher Salt, Granulated Sugar, Onions
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Turkey Gravy
Main Ingredients: Turkey Legs, Turkey Necks, Onion, Carrot, Celery
Preparing the Turkey
Cleaning and Defrosting
Before cooking, it is essential to properly clean and defrost the turkey. Make sure to remove any giblets and neck from the cavity and rinse the turkey with cold water. Then, pat it dry with paper towels. If your turkey is frozen, make sure to defrost it in the refrigerator for 24 hours per 4-5 pounds of turkey.
Seasoning the Turkey
To infuse the turkey with flavor, generously season it with herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, garlic, and paprika. You can also add some citrus fruits like oranges and lemons inside the cavity for a burst of freshness. Rub the seasonings both inside and outside of the turkey for an even coating.
Tying the Turkey
To keep the turkey in shape and ensure even cooking, tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings under the body. This will also help the turkey retain its moisture and prevent it from drying out.
Cooking the Turkey
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Roasting the Turkey
Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Cover the pan with foil and place it in the oven. After the first hour of cooking, remove the foil and continue roasting. Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with chicken or turkey stock to ensure it stays moist and flavorful.
Checking for Doneness
To check if the turkey is done, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. It should read 165°F (74°C) when the turkey is fully cooked. If the turkey is not done yet, continue roasting and checking the temperature every 15-20 minutes.
Serving the Turkey
Once the turkey is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the turkey more tender and juicy. Serve with your choice of sides and enjoy a delicious and unstuffed Christmas turkey that is sure to impress your loved ones.
Now that you have the perfect recipe for an unstuffed Christmas turkey, it's time to put on your apron and get cooking. Your holiday feast will be a hit with this flavorful and juicy turkey as the star of the show. Happy cooking and happy holidays!
![Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe [Video] - Sweet and Savory Meals](https://sweetandsavorymeals.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/herb-roasted-turkey-recipe.jpg)
