Description
Ingredients:
- Turkey Crown: About 2-3 kg
- Butter: 100-150 grams (softened)
- Olive Oil: 2-3 tablespoons
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves (minced)
- Fresh Herbs: (e.g., thyme, rosemary, parsley) – about 20 grams combined, finely chopped
- Salt: 10-15 grams (to taste)
- Black Pepper: 5-10 grams (to taste)
- Lemon: 1 (zested and juiced)
- Stock or Water: For basting, optional (200-300 ml)
Equipment:
- Roasting tray
- Meat thermometer
- Kitchen twine (if needed)
- Aluminum foil
Instructions:
- Preparation (1-2 Days Ahead):
- Brining (Optional): If you wish, brine the turkey crown in a saltwater solution for added moisture and flavor. Use 100 grams of salt per liter of cold water and soak the turkey crown for 6-12 hours. Rinse and dry before cooking.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (fan oven) or 200°C (conventional oven).
- Season the Turkey Crown:
- In a bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Gently loosen the skin of the turkey crown and spread the butter mixture under the skin, as well as on the outside of the skin. This will help keep the meat moist and flavorful.
- Optionally, tie the legs and any loose skin together with kitchen twine to create a nice shape.
- Cooking:
- Place the turkey crown on a roasting tray, breast side up. Drizzle with olive oil and season with additional salt and pepper.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the crown (not touching the bone).
- Roast in the preheated oven for 13-15 minutes per 500 grams. For a 2-3 kg turkey crown, this will take approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.
- Basting:
- Baste the turkey crown every 30-45 minutes with the pan juices or added stock/water. This helps to keep the meat moist.
- Check Temperature:
- The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 75°C. Keep roasting, checking frequently, if it hasn’t reached this temperature.
- Resting:
- Once the turkey crown is cooked, remove it from the oven and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Serving:
- Carve the turkey crown and serve with your favorite sides.
Tips for the Best Turkey Crown:
- Experiment with different herbs or spices for a unique flavor.
- Make a gravy from the pan drippings by adding flour and stock.
- Pair with seasonal vegetables and cranberry sauce for a festive touch.
