Roast Turkey with Oranges

Roast Turkey with Oranges Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 8-10

Introduction

Roast Turkey with Oranges is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings. The combination of juicy turkey meat with the citrusy sweetness of oranges creates a unique and mouthwatering flavor profile that is sure to impress your guests.

History

The tradition of roasting turkey with oranges dates back to ancient times when citrus fruits were prized for their exotic flavors and health benefits. Oranges were often used in cooking to add a touch of sweetness and acidity to savory dishes, and they pair perfectly with the rich and savory flavors of roasted turkey.

Ingredients

1 large turkey for roasting (8-10 lb (4.54 kg))
3 tbsp orange juice
3 tbsp honey
3 tbsp cooking oil
3 large oranges
2 tbsp margarine or cooking oil
salt and pepper
2 cups chicken stock or water
0.25 cup orange marmalade
0.25 cup white wine
1 small onion, peeled and chopped
2 tbsp butter
1 small chicken bouillon cube
0.25 cup cream
2 tsp cornstarch, dissolved in some cold water

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the turkey giblets into small pieces and set them aside for the sauce.
Peel the oranges and divide them into sections. Set aside some sections for garnish.
Cut the orange peel into half-inch slices.
Melt the margarine in a small saucepan over high heat.
Add the sliced orange peel and sauté quickly for a minute.
Stuff the orange peel into the turkey.
In a small bowl, mix together the honey, cooking oil, and orange juice.
Brush the mixture all over the turkey, reserving half for later.
Season the turkey with salt and pepper, truss it, and transfer it to a large roasting pan.
Roast the turkey in the oven at 375°F (191°C) for about 1 hour.
Brush the rest of the honey-orange mixture on the turkey, then return it to the oven and roast for 60 - 90 minutes more, until it is cooked.
You can check if it's cooked by using a meat thermometer - the internal meat temperature must reach at least 160°F (71°C).
After it is cooked, turn off the heat and leave the turkey in the oven for about 15 - 20 minutes more before serving.

Gravy

(Do this while roasting the turkey): Melt the butter in a small saucepan over high heat.
Sauté the chopped onions and giblets for about 2-3 minutes.
Deglaze with wine, then reduce for 3 minutes.
Add the orange marmalade, bouillon cube, and water (or chicken stock).
Bring it to a quick boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 - 10 minutes.
Add the cream, then thicken the gravy with some cornstarch dissolved in cold water.

To serve

Transfer the roasted turkey to a serving dish.
Garnish by surrounding it with orange slices and some fresh greens.
Serve the sauce in a separate bowl.

Variations

Substitute the oranges with lemons or grapefruits for a different citrus flavor.
Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the honey-orange mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey for a different sweetness profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to baste the turkey with the honey-orange mixture regularly to keep it moist and flavorful.

- Trussing the turkey before roasting helps it cook evenly and keeps the meat tender and juicy.

- Let the turkey rest for at least 15-20 minutes after roasting to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to become more tender.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the turkey is cooked to the proper internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Serving Suggestions

Serve Roast Turkey with Oranges with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting: Roasting the turkey in the oven at a high temperature helps to caramelize the skin and seal in the juices, resulting in a tender and flavorful meat.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil or vegetable oil instead of cooking oil.

- Substitute chicken broth for water in the gravy for a richer flavor.

- Use arrowroot powder or flour instead of cornstarch to thicken the gravy.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the honey-orange mixture and stuff the turkey a day in advance to save time on the day of cooking.

- The gravy can also be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the roasted turkey with fresh herbs, orange slices, and edible flowers for a beautiful and elegant presentation. - Serve the sauce in a decorative gravy boat or small bowl for a sophisticated touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Roast Turkey with Oranges with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a perfect complement to the citrusy flavors.

- Serve with a side of cranberry sauce or chutney for a classic holiday pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

- Reheat the turkey in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

- Reheat the gravy on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

320 per serving

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 18g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 13g

Fats

- Total Fat: 12g

- Saturated Fat: 4g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 32g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 60% DV

- Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (butter, cream)

- May contain gluten (if using chicken bouillon cube)

Summary

Roast Turkey with Oranges is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and fats, making it a healthy option for those watching their calorie intake.

Summary

Roast Turkey with Oranges is a delicious and festive dish that is perfect for holiday celebrations or special occasions. The combination of juicy turkey meat with the citrusy sweetness of oranges creates a unique and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your guests. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a memorable and delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a rainy afternoon, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipes that I had collected over the years. As I flipped through the yellowed index cards and torn magazine clippings, one caught my eye - Roast Turkey with Oranges.

I remembered the day I first tasted this dish like it was yesterday. It was at a potluck dinner party hosted by my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins. The aroma of the turkey filled the room, and the tangy sweetness of the oranges added a unique twist to the traditional roast. I immediately asked her for the recipe, knowing that I had to recreate it in my own kitchen.

Mrs. Jenkins was more than happy to share her culinary secrets with me. She explained that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. The combination of citrus and savory flavors was a family tradition that Mrs. Jenkins was proud to continue.

I carefully copied down the ingredients and instructions on a crumpled napkin, knowing that this recipe would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire. Over the years, I made a few adjustments here and there, adding my own personal touch to the dish. But the essence of the recipe remained the same - a juicy, flavorful roast turkey infused with the bright, zesty taste of oranges.

To make the Roast Turkey with Oranges, you will need a plump, fresh turkey, preferably organic and free-range. The key to a succulent roast is to brine the bird overnight in a mixture of water, salt, sugar, and orange peel. This step helps to lock in the moisture and infuse the meat with flavor.

The next day, I carefully patted the turkey dry and placed it in a roasting pan. I stuffed the cavity with a mixture of fresh herbs, garlic, and sliced oranges, which would release their juices as the turkey cooked. I brushed the skin with a mixture of melted butter, honey, and orange zest, which would caramelize and create a crispy, golden-brown crust.

As the turkey roasted in the oven, the fragrant aroma filled the kitchen, bringing back memories of holidays past and family gatherings. The oranges caramelized and mingled with the savory juices, creating a rich, complex sauce that would be drizzled over the carved turkey.

When the timer chimed, signaling that the turkey was done, I carefully removed it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. The meat was tender and juicy, with a hint of sweetness from the oranges. I plated the slices on a large serving platter, garnishing them with fresh herbs and orange slices for a festive touch.

As my family gathered around the table, I proudly presented the Roast Turkey with Oranges, knowing that I had captured the essence of a beloved family recipe. The first bite brought smiles of approval and contentment, as the flavors danced on our tongues and warmed our hearts.

This recipe has since become a favorite in our household, a dish that we look forward to sharing at special occasions and holiday gatherings. Each time I make it, I am reminded of that rainy afternoon when I stumbled upon the recipe and the warm memories that it evokes.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a show-stopping dish that will impress your guests and delight your taste buds, look no further than Roast Turkey with Oranges. It's a recipe that has stood the test of time and will continue to bring joy and satisfaction to those who savor its delicious flavors.