Herb-Infused Smoked Holiday Turkey
This Herb-Infused Smoked Holiday Turkey recipe has been a cherished family tradition for over 25 years, originating from my father's culinary adventures in the kitchen. With a perfect blend of aromatic herbs and spices, this turkey is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the palate. The infusion of rich flavors and the smoky aroma transform a simple turkey into a memorable centerpiece for any holiday gathering. Families will gather around the table, savoring each bite of this succulent turkey, which was once so popular that we could barely keep up with the holiday gift requests! Experience the warmth of cherished memories shared over this exquisite dish.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Large turkey
1 (cleaned and prepared)
Minced onion
1/2 cup (fresh)
Minced garlic
1/8 cup (fresh)
Minced rosemary
1 tablespoon (fresh)
Fresh black pepper
1 tablespoon (ground)
Paprika
2 teaspoons (for seasoning)
Salt
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Olive oil
1/3 cup (for the paste and coating)
Large onions
2 (quartered)
Whole rosemary branch
1 small (optional, for stuffing)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine the minced onion, garlic, rosemary, black pepper, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and salt. Gradually add olive oil until a thick paste forms, ensuring it's well mixed.
2
Prepare the turkey by cleaning it thoroughly, then position it breast side up for smoking. Use a paring knife to create incisions about 1 to 1.5 inches deep into the meat, targeting the areas closest to the bone for optimal flavor infusion. Space the incisions about 1.5 to 2 inches apart.
3
Using your fingers or a spoon, generously fill each incision with the herb paste, packing it in until it's level with the surface of the turkey.
4
Quarter the additional onions and stuff them inside the turkey cavity along with the whole rosemary sprigs for added flavor.
5
Rub the entire exterior of the turkey with olive oil, ensuring an even coating. Then, generously dust the outside of the turkey with paprika for a vibrant color and additional seasoning. Secure the turkey legs together with kitchen twine.
6
Place the turkey in your smoker and smoke according to your equipment's usual method, which typically takes about 4 to 5 hours. Monitor the internal temperature until it reaches a safe 165°F (75°C).
7
Once cooked, allow the turkey to rest before carving and serving to your guests.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Herb-Infused Smoked Holiday Turkey?
It is a cherished family tradition featuring a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, smoked to create a flavorful centerpiece.
How long has this recipe been in the family?
This recipe has been a holiday tradition for over 25 years, originating from the creator's father.
What ingredients are used for the herb paste?
The paste includes minced onion, minced garlic, minced rosemary, black pepper, paprika, salt, and olive oil.
How do I prepare the herb paste?
Combine the minced ingredients and spices in a bowl, then gradually add olive oil until a thick paste forms.
How should the turkey be positioned for smoking?
The turkey should be positioned breast side up for the smoking process.
How deep should the flavor incisions be?
Use a paring knife to create incisions about 1 to 1.5 inches deep into the meat.
Where should I place the incisions on the turkey?
Target the areas closest to the bone for optimal flavor infusion when making incisions.
How far apart should the incisions be spaced?
Space the incisions approximately 1.5 to 2 inches apart across the turkey.
How do I apply the herb paste to the turkey?
Use your fingers or a spoon to generously fill each incision with the herb paste until it is level with the surface.
What is used to stuff the turkey cavity?
The cavity is stuffed with quartered large onions and whole rosemary sprigs for added flavor.
How do I season the exterior of the turkey?
Rub the entire exterior with olive oil and then generously dust it with paprika for color and seasoning.
Why is paprika used on the turkey skin?
Paprika is used to provide a vibrant color and extra seasoning to the outside of the turkey.
Do I need to tie the turkey legs?
Yes, secure the turkey legs together with kitchen twine before placing the bird in the smoker.
How long does it take to smoke the turkey?
The smoking process typically takes about 4 to 5 hours depending on your equipment.
What internal temperature should the turkey reach?
Monitor the internal temperature until it reaches a safe 165°F (75°C).
Should the turkey rest after cooking?
Yes, allow the turkey to rest before carving and serving to ensure it stays succulent.
How much minced onion is required?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of fresh minced onion.
How much minced garlic is needed?
You will need 1/8 cup of fresh minced garlic for the herb paste.
What type of pepper is recommended?
Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor.
How much olive oil is used?
The recipe uses 1/3 cup of olive oil for making the paste and coating the turkey.
Is the whole rosemary branch required?
The whole rosemary branch is optional and used for stuffing the cavity.
What size turkey does this recipe require?
The recipe specifies using one large turkey that has been cleaned and prepared.
Is this recipe suitable for Thanksgiving?
Yes, it is tagged as a Thanksgiving recipe and a perfect holiday centerpiece.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 ingredients listed in total for this recipe.
Can I use a spoon to fill the incisions?
Yes, you can use either your fingers or a spoon to pack the herb paste into the incisions.
What preparation is needed for the onions used for stuffing?
Two large onions should be quartered before being placed inside the turkey cavity.
Is this turkey recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food and is known for creating warm holiday memories.
What gives the turkey its smoky aroma?
The smoky aroma comes from cooking the turkey in a smoker for several hours.
How much paprika is used for the paste?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of paprika inside the herb paste, with more used for the exterior dust.
What makes this turkey a memorable centerpiece?
The infusion of rich flavors from the internal herb paste and the vibrant color from the paprika make it stand out.