Whether you’re roasting a turkey for Thanksgiving or just any old Sunday, knowing how to slow cook a turkey includes knowing when to defrost, how to prep, what temperature to cook it at, and what to do with the leftovers. It’s a simple way to make any day feel festive!
Ah, Thanksgiving. A time for family, friends, and, of course, the centerpiece of the feast: the turkey. But who has the time or energy to stand over a hot oven all day, basting and checking on the bird? This year, ditch the stress and embrace the magic of slow-roasting. This method not only yields incredibly succulent and moist meat, but it also frees you up to enjoy the rest of your day, knowing your turkey is in good hands (or rather, oven).
Preparation:
- Defrosting: The key to a perfectly cooked turkey is proper defrosting. Allow 24 hours for every 5 pounds of turkey, and don’t be afraid to add an extra day for good measure. Remember, safety first!
- Seasoning: Once thawed, remove the giblets and pat the turkey dry. Then, get creative! Rub the skin with butter, sprinkle on your favorite herbs and spices, or even stuff the cavity with aromatics like lemon wedges or fresh rosemary.
- The Magic of Slow Roasting: Preheat your oven to 325°F and place the seasoned turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Pour a splash of apple cider or broth into the bottom of the pan for added moisture. Now, the secret ingredient: time. Roast the turkey for 15-20 minutes per pound, ensuring a perfectly cooked and juicy bird.
Tips and Tricks:
- Basting: While not essential, basting every 30 minutes can add extra flavor and keep the skin crispy.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F. This guarantees a safe and delicious meal.
- Resting: Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more tender meat.
Leftovers:
Don’t worry about having too much turkey! Leftovers are the perfect opportunity to get creative. Try making turkey sandwiches, enchiladas, or even a delicious pot pie. You can also freeze leftover turkey for future meals.
Slow-roasting a turkey is a stress-free and foolproof way to achieve a perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful bird. So this Thanksgiving, relax, enjoy the company of loved ones, and let your oven do the work Your taste buds will thank you!
Bonus:
- For an extra crispy skin: Broil the turkey for the last few minutes of cooking.
- Looking for a vegetarian alternative? Try slow-roasting a stuffed butternut squash or portobello mushroom.
- Don’t forget the sides! Pair your slow-roasted turkey with classic Thanksgiving dishes like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
Additional Resources:
- The Splendid Table: https://www.splendidtable.org/story/2013/11/21/this-year-roast-the-turkey-while-you-sleep
- What a Girl Eats: https://whatagirleats.com/how-to-roast-a-turkey/
How To Slow Roast A Turkey
First, make sure your turkey is completely thawed. (See more tips on defrosting below. ) It’s ok to err on the side of an extra day or two in the fridge. If you’ve bought a fresh turkey, then you’re good to go!.
To prepare your turkey, stuff the cavity with quartered lemon and fresh herbs, and tuck some butter under the skin. I like to add plenty of kosher salt under the skin and in the cavity with the herbs.
I picked up this technique in culinary school from an Italian chef who made Pollo al Limone, which is using lemons instead of onions. The lemon makes the breast meat unbelievably moist.
Why You Should Make This Slow Roasted Turkey Recipe
I wonder why we only make turkey a few times a year—it’s such a simple dinner, the leftovers can be turned into so many delicious dishes, and it’s a relatively inexpensive meat. Have you ever prepared a slow roasted turkey other than for a holiday?
We’re all busy, I get it. That’s why I have lots of recipes in my back pocket that take under 30 minutes. Sometimes I just don’t have the time or energy to spend more than an hour preparing a meal. Making a slow roast turkey does take a bit of prep, so it’s definitely not the meal to choose when you’re in a hurry!
On a leisurely Sunday, however, or during a holiday like Christmas or Thanksgiving, a slow-cooked turkey is the ideal way to unwind, think, spend time with loved ones, and be grateful for what we have.
