Yesterday I dedicated the food blog to making the perfect turkey, starting with the stock that you use to baste it all the way to the gravy. But many families have special spices or glazes that they use to make their turkeys unique from their neighbors. Here are a few special combinations if you’re wanting to try something different this year.
For basic roasting directions, make sure to read about the perfect turkey.
Orange and Maple Roasted Turkey
Combine 3/4 cup orange juice and 1/4 cup syrup in a small saucepan; bring just to a boil. Remove from heat; set aside.
Sprinkle poultry seasoning, 1 tablespoon grated orange rind, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper into the body cavity and onto the bird. Stuff cavity of turkey with orange quarters and onion quarters.
While turkey is baking, melt margarine in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add reserved giblets and neck; saute 2 minutes or until browned on all sides. Add water and broth; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 45 minutes. Pour mixture through a sieve to strain the solids and add to the o.j. syrup mixture. Use this as a basting broth, adding some to the bottom of the pan.
Southwestern Turkey Rub
Combine 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon dried rubbed sage, 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground red pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric. Rub generously on turkey before baking.
Lemon Sage Turkey
Combine, 3 tablespoons grated lemon rind, 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, 3 tablespoons dried thyme, 2 tablespoons dried rubbed sage, 1 tablespoon cracked black pepper and 1 teaspoon salt. Set aside and prepare your turkey for roasting. Rub the spice mixture over the turkey and inside the body cavity.
Do you add something to your turkey to make it unique?