Two Herb-Roasted Turkey with Bourbon Gravy |
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Prep Time: 23 Minutes Cook Time: 180 Minutes |
Ready In: 203 Minutes Servings: 12 |
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This tender and juicy bird is prepared with a traditional technique and has classic flavor. A bourbon-splashed gravy makes it extra-special. Be sure to set aside half of the gravy for the kids before adding bourbon. Ingredients:
1 (12- to 14-lb.) fresh or frozen turkey, thawed |
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened |
1 1/2 tablespoons minced fresh sage or 1 1/2 tsp. rubbed sage |
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves or 1 1/2 tsp. dried thyme |
2 teaspoons salt |
1 teaspoon pepper |
1 large onion, cut into wedges |
2 celery ribs, coarsely chopped |
3 garlic cloves, halved |
garnishes: fresh sage and fresh flat-leaf parsley |
bourbon gravy |
Directions:
1. Remove giblets and neck from turkey; place in refrigerator for use in gravy, if desired. Rinse turkey with cold water; pat dry with paper towels. Place turkey, breast side up, on a rack in a lightly greased roasting pan. Lift wing tips up and over back, and tuck under bird.
2. Combine butter and next 4 ingredients in a small bowl; rub 2 Tbsp. seasoned butter inside turkey cavity. Place onion, celery, and garlic inside turkey cavity. Rub remaining 4 Tbsp. seasoned butter all over outside of turkey, legs and all. Tie ends of legs together with heavy string, or tuck under flap of skin around tail.
3. Bake, uncovered, at 325° for 2 1/2 to 3 hours or until a meat thermometer inserted into the meaty part of thigh registers 170°. Shield turkey with aluminum foil towards end of cooking, if necessary, to prevent overbrowning.
4. Transfer turkey to a serving platter, reserving pan drippings for Bourbon Gravy. Let turkey stand, covered with foil, at least 15 minutes before carving. Garnish platter, if desired. Serve turkey with Bourbon Gravy.
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