Traditional Christmas Turkey Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (14-16 pounds)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F.
2. Remove the neck and giblets from inside the turkey and discard or reserve for making gravy later.
3. Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, chopped rosemary, thyme, and sage until well combined.
5. Season the turkey with salt and pepper all over, including inside the cavity.
6. Starting at the neck opening, use your fingers to carefully separate the skin from the breast meat without tearing it.
7. Rub the herb butter all over the meat under the skin, making sure to cover as much of the breast meat as possible.
8. Truss the legs of the turkey together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings under the bird.
9. Place the turkey in a large roasting pan and add the chicken broth to the pan.
10. Cover the turkey loosely with foil and roast for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the pan juices and more chicken broth as needed.
11. Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of roasting to allow the skin to brown and crisp up.
12. Check the internal temperature of the turkey with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone. It should read at least 165°F.
13. Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.

Verdict:

This traditional Christmas turkey recipe is a crowd pleaser with its tender and flavorful meat that is perfectly seasoned with a mix of fresh herbs and butter. The chicken broth also helps to keep the meat moist throughout the cooking process. It’s a classic recipe that is sure to impress your holiday guests.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve your Christmas turkey with your choice of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. Don’t forget the gravy made from the pan drippings for an extra flavorful kick. Enjoy!