Roast Turkey (Thanksgiving Turkey) – Traditional Holiday Turkey Recipe

Roast Turkey (Thanksgiving Turkey) – Traditional Holiday Turkey Recipe

Roast turkey—also known as Thanksgiving or Christmas turkey—is the centerpiece of Christmas Eve dinners across the globe. For many, the Christmas celebration simply isn’t complete without a golden-brown turkey gracing the middle of the holiday table.

For centuries, people around the world have celebrated Christmas Eve with roast turkey adorning their festive tables on that cold December night. Over time, this dish has become a cherished tradition and a global symbol of holiday warmth and generosity.

More than just a tradition, this hearty dish adds magic and rich flavor to Christmas dinner. It's also packed with nutrients and energy that keep you satisfied and warm through the winter evening.

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Ingredients (Serves 8)

 

For the Turkey:

• 1 whole turkey (approximately 10 kilograms)

• 3 potatoes

• 1 apple

• 3 onions, chopped

• 5 cloves of garlic

• 100 grams of butter

• 3 bell peppers (mixed colors), chopped

• 4 carrots, sliced

• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom

For the Marinade:

• 1 liter of milk

• 1 liter of water

• 1 cup of yogurt

• 1 teaspoon of salt

• 1 teaspoon of black pepper

• 1 teaspoon of mixed spices

• 2 teaspoons of onion powder

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup tomato sauce

• 1 cup orange juice

• 4 tablespoons vinegar

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon mixed spices

• 2 teaspoons onion powder

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon curry powder

• 2 tablespoons paprika

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Cooking Instructions:

Start by preparing the marinade. In a large bowl, mix together the milk, yogurt, water, salt, pepper, and onion powder until fully combined. Place the turkey in a large plastic bag, pour in the marinade, and refrigerate it for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to deeply infuse.

Once marinated, remove the turkey from the refrigerator and stuff it with the apple, orange slices, butter, and assorted vegetables. Place the turkey in a large roasting pan, pour three cups of water around it, and add the ground cardamom to the water for added aroma.

Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for about three hours. Be sure to check the water level occasionally and add more if necessary to keep the turkey moist.

While the turkey is roasting, prepare the sauce by mixing all the sauce ingredients in a bowl until smooth and well blended.

When the turkey is nearly done, remove it from the oven, pour the sauce evenly over the bird, and brush it with melted butter. Return it to the oven, uncovered, and roast until the skin is crisp and golden brown.

Finally, remove the turkey from the oven and place it in the center of your holiday dinner table. The aroma, tenderness, and flavor of this classic roast turkey are sure to make your Christmas feast unforgettable.