Roast Turkey Breast with Gravy

Roast Turkey Breast with Gravy Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Roast Turkey Breast with Gravy is a classic dish that is perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal. The tender and juicy turkey breast is roasted to perfection and served with a flavorful gravy that complements the meat beautifully. This recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its delicious flavors and elegant presentation.

History

Roast turkey has been a popular dish for centuries, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations. The tradition of roasting turkey dates back to the early days of American history when European settlers adopted the Native American cooking method of roasting wild turkey. Over time, the recipe evolved to include various seasonings and cooking techniques, resulting in the delicious dish we know today.

Ingredients

1 large turkey breast for roasting (about 2 lb (907 g))
3 tbsp honey
2 tbsp melted butter
1 tbsp dijon mustard
1 tbsp lemon juice
salt and pepper for seasoning
1.5 cup hot or lukewarm water
1 chicken bouillon cube
1 tbsp dark or light soy sauce
1 tbsp orange juice
1 tbsp orange marmalade
2 tsp cornstarch
1 tbsp red wine or sherry (optional)

How to prepare

For the roasting base

Preheat the oven to 375°F (or 190°C).
In a small bowl, combine the honey, mustard, butter, and lemon juice.
Brush the mixture all over the turkey breast and season with salt and pepper.
Place the turkey in a baking dish and roast in the oven at 375°F for about 40-50 minutes, or until cooked.

Gravy

In a small saucepan, bring water to a boil.
Dissolve the chicken cube in the boiling water.
Add the orange marmalade, juice, wine, and soy sauce.
Dissolve the cornstarch in a little cold water, then add it to the gravy mixture.
Let the gravy simmer for 1-2 minutes until it thickens. Season with salt and pepper.

To serve

Arrange the roast turkey in the center of the serving plate.
Surround it with grilled tomatoes and steamed peas.
Serve with mashed potatoes and the gravy, and optionally with rice.

Variations

You can add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the honey-mustard mixture for added flavor.
Substitute the chicken bouillon cube with homemade or store-bought chicken broth for a richer gravy.
Add chopped nuts or dried fruits to the stuffing for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to baste the turkey breast with the honey-mustard mixture regularly while roasting to keep it moist and flavorful.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to the proper internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

- Let the turkey breast rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat tender.

- For a crispy skin, you can broil the turkey breast for a few minutes after roasting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the roast turkey breast with gravy alongside mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, and cranberry sauce for a complete and festive meal. Pair it with a glass of white wine or sparkling cider for a perfect holiday feast.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting: Roast the turkey breast in the oven at a high temperature to ensure even cooking and a crispy skin.

- Simmering: Simmer the gravy mixture on the stovetop until it thickens and develops a rich flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute olive oil for melted butter for a healthier option.

- Use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar instead of lemon juice for a tangy twist.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the honey-mustard mixture and gravy ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use. Simply reheat the gravy on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the sliced turkey breast on a platter and drizzle the gravy over the top for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or citrus slices for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this roast turkey breast with gravy with a side of cranberry sauce, stuffing, and green bean casserole for a traditional holiday meal. Serve with a glass of Pinot Noir or Chardonnay for a perfect pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover turkey breast and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

280 per serving

Carbohydrates

15g per serving

Fats

- Total Fat: 12g

- Saturated Fat: 5g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 30g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Vitamin C: 15% DV

- Iron: 8% DV

Alergens

Contains: Soy

Summary

This roast turkey breast with gravy is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in protein and essential vitamins. It is a great source of lean protein and makes for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Summary

Roast Turkey Breast with Gravy is a classic and delicious dish that is perfect for holiday celebrations or special occasions. The tender and juicy turkey breast is roasted to perfection and served with a flavorful gravy that complements the meat beautifully. This recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its delicious flavors and elegant presentation.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Roast Turkey Breast with Gravy. It was a crisp fall afternoon, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy kitchen. As soon as I walked in, I was enveloped in the warm, savory aroma of the turkey roasting in the oven. Margaret greeted me with a smile and a twinkle in her eye.

"Come, dear, I want to show you my secret recipe for the most delicious roast turkey breast you'll ever taste," she said, guiding me over to her cluttered recipe book. She flipped through the pages with care, her weathered hands tracing over the faded ink as she searched for the right page.

"Here it is," she exclaimed, pointing to a scribbled note in the margin of the page. "This is my own twist on a classic recipe passed down from my grandmother. It's been a family favorite for generations."

Margaret began to read off the ingredients and instructions, her voice filled with passion and nostalgia. As she spoke, I could see the love and care she put into every step of the recipe. From brining the turkey breast in a mixture of salt, brown sugar, and herbs overnight to basting it with a rich gravy made from the drippings, Margaret's attention to detail was evident in every word.

I watched in awe as she expertly seasoned the turkey breast, tying it up with kitchen twine and placing it in the oven to roast. The tantalizing scent filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. Margaret smiled at me, her eyes twinkling with pride.

"Remember, dear, the key to a perfect roast turkey breast is patience and love. Let it cook low and slow until it's tender and juicy, then make sure to rest it before slicing," she advised, her voice filled with wisdom.

As we waited for the turkey to finish cooking, Margaret regaled me with stories of her childhood and the memories she associated with this recipe. She spoke of Thanksgivings spent with her family, of laughter and love shared around the dinner table. I could feel the warmth and nostalgia in her words, and I knew that this recipe held a special place in her heart.

Finally, the oven timer dinged, and Margaret pulled out the golden-brown turkey breast, its skin glistening with juices. She expertly carved it into thick slices, arranging them on a platter with a ladle of rich gravy on top. The aroma was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to dig in.

We sat down at the table, our plates piled high with turkey and all the fixings. Margaret poured us each a glass of wine and raised her glass in a toast.

"To family, to tradition, and to good food shared with loved ones," she said, her eyes shining with emotion.

I took a bite of the tender turkey breast, the flavors exploding on my taste buds. It was everything Margaret had promised and more – succulent, savory, and utterly delicious. I savored every mouthful, feeling grateful for this moment of shared joy and connection.

As we finished our meal, Margaret leaned back in her chair with a contented sigh. She looked at me with a smile, her eyes twinkling with satisfaction.

"I'm so glad I could share this recipe with you, dear. May it bring you as much joy and warmth as it has brought me over the years," she said, her voice filled with love.

I hugged her tightly, feeling grateful for the gift of this recipe and the memories we had shared that day. As I left Margaret's kitchen, my heart was full, knowing that I had learned not just a recipe, but a piece of her heart and soul. And every time I make Roast Turkey Breast with Gravy, I'll think of Margaret and the love that went into every delicious bite.