Roasted turkey is something most people only make once a year. We rely on our mothers, grandmothers and friends to help us. My mother and I have been roasting a beautiful turkey together for as long as I can remember. We’ve been roasting the Thanksgiving turkey the same way for many years and it is consistently juicy and delicious.
The only variables are whether to brine the turkey or not and the cooking time will vary based on the size of the turkey. You will want to plan for about 20 minutes per pound of turkey based on a 350 degree F oven. However the high and fast method described in this recipe will shorten this time a bit, so it is essential that you monitor the temperature of the bird during the cooking process. Brining the turkey is personal preference. If you like it, do it. If not, don’t. Brining is a process of soaking the turkey in a seasoned salt solution to impart flavor and moisture to the turkey. It is done at least one day in advance of roasting the turkey. Personally, I do not think it is necessary to brine the turkey, but please do whatever you prefer.
Part of the success of the roasted turkey is the bird itself. I always choose the highest quality turkey I can find. Fresh, local, free range and or organic if possible. The process described in this recipe is good for any kind of whole turkey that is fresh or completely defrosted. The only special supplies you will need are a large heavy duty roasting pan with a rack, a probe thermometer and some kitchen twine.
I know it can seem a bit daunting to cook an entire Thanksgiving turkey, but really this process makes it much faster and easier with consistently great results. The recipe is based on a 15-16 pound turkey. If yours is smaller of larger just follow the 20 minutes per pound guidelines and you should be on track. Make sure you use a thermometer to check the temperature while it is cooking to insure a cooked but not overdone turkey. Please see the notes section of the recipe for a link to turkey tips from The Culinary Institute of America. Happy Thanksgiving!
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