Zesty Herb-Infused Roast Turkey
Elevate your Thanksgiving feast with this Zesty Herb-Infused Roast Turkey, a delightful centerpiece that combines moisture and flavor in each succulent bite. This recipe features a unique blend of spices mixed into creamy mayonnaise, providing a crispy, spicy skin that contrasts beautifully with the juicy meat beneath. My technique, inspired by culinary expert Alton Brown, ensures an evenly cooked bird that is easy to carve and delightful to serve. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, this turkey retains its flavor even in leftovers, making every portion equally delicious. Impress your guests and family with a roast turkey that is as visually stunning as it is delicious!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Mayonnaise
1 - 1.5 cups (None)
Paprika
2 tablespoons (None)
Cayenne Pepper
1/2 teaspoon (None)
Black Pepper
1/2 teaspoon (None)
Salt
2 teaspoons (None)
Onion Powder
1 teaspoon (None)
Oregano
1 teaspoon (None)
Thyme
1 teaspoon (None)
Garlic Powder
1 teaspoon (None)
Turkey (14 lbs)
1 (Whole, thawed)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C).
2
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and garlic powder. Stir until the mixture is smooth and all spices are evenly incorporated.
3
Prepare the turkey by tucking the wings behind the bird. Generously slather the spicy mayonnaise mixture over the entire turkey, ensuring you massage it into the skin and apply it inside the cavity. Make sure to spread some under the breast skin for maximum flavor.
4
Place the turkey on the lowest rack of the preheated oven and roast for 30 minutes to achieve a golden brown color.
5
After 30 minutes, carefully take the turkey out and cover the breast area with a double layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil, shaped into a triangle. This helps protect the white meat from overcooking, while leaving the legs uncovered.
6
Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, making sure it doesn't touch the bone. Return the turkey to the oven and reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C).
7
Continue roasting the turkey until the internal temperature reaches 161°F (72°C). For a 14-pound turkey, the total roasting time should be about 2 to 2.5 hours.
8
Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey from the oven. Allow it to rest for at least 15 minutes, loosely covered with foil, before carving. This resting period helps the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the title of this recipe?
The recipe is titled Zesty Herb-Infused Roast Turkey.
What size turkey is recommended for this recipe?
A 14-pound whole, thawed turkey is recommended.
What serves as the base for the spice rub?
Mayonnaise serves as the base for the spice rub, using 1 to 1.5 cups.
What is the initial oven temperature for roasting?
The oven should be preheated to 500 degrees Fahrenheit (260 degrees Celsius).
How long should the turkey roast at high heat?
The turkey should roast at 500 degrees Fahrenheit for the first 30 minutes.
What spices are included in the herb mixture?
The mixture includes paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and garlic powder.
Where should the mayonnaise mixture be applied?
It should be slathered over the entire turkey, inside the cavity, and under the breast skin.
How should the turkey wings be prepared?
The wings should be tucked behind the bird before roasting.
Where in the oven should the turkey be placed?
The turkey should be placed on the lowest rack of the preheated oven.
What should you do after the first 30 minutes of roasting?
Remove the turkey and cover the breast area with a double layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil shaped into a triangle.
What is the purpose of the aluminum foil triangle?
The foil triangle protects the white meat from overcooking while leaving the legs uncovered.
What temperature should the oven be reduced to?
The temperature should be reduced to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) after the first 30 minutes.
Where is the best place to insert a meat thermometer?
Insert it into the thickest part of the breast, ensuring it does not touch the bone.
What is the target internal temperature for the turkey?
The target internal temperature is 161 degrees Fahrenheit (72 degrees Celsius).
How long does the total roasting process take?
For a 14-pound turkey, the total roasting time is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.
How long should the turkey rest before carving?
The turkey should rest for at least 15 minutes.
Why is the resting period important?
Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat remains moist and flavorful.
Who inspired the technique used in this recipe?
The technique is inspired by culinary expert Alton Brown.
Does the turkey retain its flavor as leftovers?
Yes, the turkey retains its flavor well, making every leftover portion delicious.
What kind of skin texture does this recipe produce?
The recipe produces a crispy, spicy skin that contrasts with juicy meat.
How much salt is used in the spice blend?
Two teaspoons of salt are used.
How much paprika is required?
Two tablespoons of paprika are required.
Is cayenne pepper used in this recipe?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper is included for zest.
What herbs are featured in the rub?
Oregano and thyme are the primary herbs used.
How much onion powder is added?
One teaspoon of onion powder is added to the mixture.
What type of foil is recommended?
Heavy-duty aluminum foil is recommended for protecting the breast meat.
Is this recipe considered a main dish?
Yes, it is categorized as a main dish and a holiday centerpiece.
What color should the skin be after the first stage?
The skin should achieve a golden brown color after the initial 30 minutes at 500 degrees.
Is garlic powder part of the seasoning?
Yes, one teaspoon of garlic powder is included in the rub.
What makes the meat particularly juicy in this recipe?
The combination of the mayonnaise seal and the foil protection for the breast helps maintain moisture.