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Turkey with Spice Rub

Turkey with Spice Rub

Are you ready to transform your ordinary turkey into a mouthwatering sensation that will have your guests begging for seconds? This American-style Turkey with Spice Rub isn't just another holiday recipe—it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen! Imagine a perfectly roasted turkey with a golden, crispy exterior and incredibly juicy meat, infused with a blend of aromatic spices that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you're planning a festive family dinner or a weekend feast, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and create unforgettable dining memories.

Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings

Ingredients

  1. 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
  2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  3. 1 tablespoon paprika
  4. 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  5. 1 tablespoon onion powder
  6. 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  7. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting a turkey, allowing it to cook evenly and remain juicy.
  2. Prepare the turkey by removing it from its packaging. Check the cavity for any giblets or neck that may be included, and remove them. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels to ensure the skin gets crispy during roasting.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a spice rub that will enhance the flavor of the turkey.
  4. Drizzle the olive oil over the turkey, ensuring to coat it evenly. This will help the spice rub adhere to the turkey and promote browning during cooking.
  5. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey, including under the skin and inside the cavity. Make sure to cover every part of the turkey for maximum flavor.
  6. Once the turkey is seasoned, place it on a roasting rack inside a large roasting pan. This allows air to circulate around the turkey, promoting even cooking.
  7. If desired, you can add vegetables such as carrots, onions, and celery to the bottom of the roasting pan to infuse additional flavor into the turkey as it cooks.
  8. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey breast, avoiding the bone. This will help you monitor the internal temperature as it cooks.
  9. Place the turkey in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the turkey with its juices every 30-45 minutes to keep it moist.
  10. Once the turkey has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful turkey.
  11. After resting, carve the turkey and serve it with your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious turkey with spice rub!

Tips

  1. • Always pat your turkey completely dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy skin and better spice adhesion. • Don't rush the resting period—letting the turkey rest for 20 minutes after cooking helps redistribute juices and ensures maximum tenderness. • Use a meat thermometer to guarantee precise doneness, aiming for the critical 165°F internal temperature. • For extra flavor, consider adding aromatic vegetables like carrots and onions to the roasting pan. • Baste your turkey every 30-45 minutes to maintain moisture and enhance the golden-brown color. • If the turkey browns too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil to prevent burning. • Allow plenty of cooking time—this recipe requires about 2 hours for a 12-14 pound turkey.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 141kcal

Carbohydrates: 2g

Protein: 21g

Fat: 9g

Saturated Fat: 2g

Cholesterol: 60mg

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