Why you should try slow-roasted turkey
Using a low temperature ensures that the breast and the legs cook evenly without drying out. A slow-roasted turkey benefits from a long cooking time which allows the connective tissues to break down beautifully. This technique helps the skin become golden while the inside stays succulent. It is a reliable way to prepare a large meal for many guests.
Step by step: slow-roasted turkey
Preparation: Remove the bird from the fridge an hour before you plan to start. Clean the inside and pat the skin dry with paper towels. Place the chopped vegetables in the bottom of a large roasting tin. This creates a base for the turkey and adds flavour to the juices.
Seasoning: Rub the softened butter all over the skin and under the breast skin if possible. Sprinkle the salt and pepper evenly over the whole surface. Pour the chicken stock into the bottom of the tin around the vegetables. This liquid helps keep the slow-roasted turkey moist during the long cooking process.
Roasting: Cover the tin tightly with foil and place it in the oven at a low heat. Roast the bird slowly and check the internal temperature after a few hours. Remove the foil for the final hour to let the skin turn golden brown. Baste the meat with the pan juices every now and then for extra flavour.
Resting: Take the tin out of the oven once the thickest part of the meat reaches the safe temperature. Move the bird to a clean board and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for at least forty minutes before you begin carving. Resting is essential to ensure the juices stay inside the meat.
Good advice for making slow-roasted turkey
Make sure your oven is at a steady low temperature for the best slow-roasted turkey. Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to tell when the meat is done. If the skin browns too quickly you can put the foil back on at the end.
You can use the leftover juices in the pan to make a very tasty gravy. Always let the bird rest long enough because this makes the meat much easier to slice. Choose a turkey that fits comfortably in your tin with some space around the sides.
You can also try these recipes:
meatballs in tomato sauce,
duck legs with red cabbage or
sorbet.
