Introduction

Cooking a special Christmas turkey can be a delightful tradition that brings families together. This cranberry Christmas turkey recipe by Jamie Oliver combines traditional flavors with a modern twist, ensuring your festive feast is memorable. With a juicy turkey seasoned to perfection and a delicious cranberry sauce, this dish is sure to impress your guests.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 1 whole turkey, about 4-5 kg
– 150g butter, softened
– Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
– 1 onion, peeled and quartered
– 1 lemon, halved
– 1 bunch of fresh thyme
– 1 bunch of fresh rosemary
– 200g cranberries
– 75g sugar
– 250ml water
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 2 teaspoons mustard

Prep Time

The preparation time for this Christmas turkey recipe is approximately 30 minutes. This includes seasoning the turkey and preparing the cranberry sauce.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time for the turkey is around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on the size. The total time from start to finish, including preparation and cooking, is about 3 hours. This recipe yields a beautifully roasted turkey suitable for 8-10 servings, making it perfect for family gatherings during the festive season.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preparing the Turkey

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Remove the giblets and any excess fat from the turkey cavity.
3. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.

Seasoning the Turkey

1. Rub a generous amount of salt and black pepper all over the turkey, including inside the cavity.
2. Add fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary into the cavity for enhanced flavor.

Preparing the Butter Mixture

1. Soften butter in a bowl and mix it with chopped herbs, zest from a lemon, and a bit of black pepper.
2. Gently lift the skin from the turkey breast and spread the butter mixture underneath.

Roasting the Turkey

1. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting tray.
2. Cover the turkey with tin foil to prevent it from browning too quickly.
3. Roast in the preheated oven, allowing about 13 minutes per kg, removing the foil for the last 30 minutes for golden skin.

Making the Gravy

1. After the turkey is cooked, remove it from the roasting tray and let it rest.
2. Pour off excess fat from the tray, leaving the juices behind.
3. Add flour to the pan juices and stir over medium heat until combined and toasted.
4. Gradually whisk in stock, stirring until thickened.

Serving the Turkey

1. Carve the turkey and arrange on a serving platter.
2. Serve with traditional accompaniments like cranberry sauce and stuffing.

Notes

Choosing the Turkey

– Select a turkey that is the appropriate size for your gathering; consider about 500g (1 lb) per person.

Resting Time

– Allow the turkey to rest for at least 30 minutes before carving to ensure juiciness.

Leftover Ideas

– Use any leftover turkey in sandwiches, salads, or soups for a delicious post-Christmas meal.

Alternative Seasonings

– Experiment with different herbs and spices to cater to your personal taste preferences.

Cook techniques

Brining

Brining your turkey helps to enhance its flavor and moisture. By soaking the turkey in a saltwater solution, you allow it to absorb moisture, making for a juicier bird after cooking.

Roasting

Roasting is the primary cooking method for turkey. Ensuring an even roast is key, which involves occasionally basting the turkey with its own juices to maintain moisture and flavor throughout the cooking process.

Resting

After roasting, allowing the turkey to rest is crucial. This step lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is tender and juicy.

Stuffing

When preparing stuffed turkey, it’s important to ensure the stuffing reaches a safe internal temperature. This method also adds flavor as the stuffing absorbs juices from the turkey as it cooks.

FAQ

How long should I brine the turkey?

Brine the turkey for at least 12 hours, but no more than 24 hours for optimal flavor and texture.

What temperature should I roast the turkey?

Roasting is typically done at 180°C (350°F). Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure the turkey is fully cooked.

How do I know when the turkey is done?

The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) in the thickest part of the breast and thigh.

Can I stuff the turkey the night before?

It is not recommended to stuff the turkey the night before as this can lead to unsafe bacteria growth. Stuff it just before roasting.

Why is resting the turkey important?

Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the turkey more succulent and easier to carve.

Conclusion

The Cranberry Christmas Turkey is a perfect centerpiece for any festive table, offering a beautiful combination of flavors that are sure to delight your guests. The balance of succulent turkey and tangy cranberries brings a special touch to your holiday celebrations, making the meal memorable and satisfying.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Roasted Seasonal Vegetables

Pair your turkey with a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and parsnips for a colorful and nutritious side dish.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are an excellent complement to the turkey, providing a rich and velvety texture that enhances the overall meal experience.

Stuffing with Sausage and Sage

Consider a savory stuffing made with sausage, sage, and herbs to add depth and flavor to your holiday feast.

Classic Gravy

A classic turkey gravy made from pan drippings will elevate the dish even further, adding a luscious, savory element to your plate.

Cranberry Sauce Variations

Experiment with different cranberry sauce variations by adding orange zest or spices like cinnamon to enhance the traditional flavor.

Spiced Apple Cider

Serve a warm spiced apple cider as a festive drink option to accompany your meal, providing a cozy and aromatic beverage for your guests.

Pumpkin Pie

Finish off the meal with a traditional pumpkin pie for dessert, celebrating the flavors of the season in a sweet and satisfying way.