Introduction
Discover the irresistible charm of Salt-Roasted Turkey with Lemon and Oregano, a recipe that promises to delight your palate with its rich flavors. This succulent turkey, expertly seasoned and roasted to perfection, brings together tradition and innovation.
Tips for this Recipe
For the best results: ensure precise temperature control by using a digital instant-read thermometer. Additionally, consider marinating your turkey in advance to enhance its flavor profile and juiciness.
Why you will love this recipe
This Salt-Roasted Turkey with Lemon and Oregano is a celebration of seasonal ingredients, combining the zestfulness of citrus with the earthy tones of herbs. The method preserves moisture while infusing traditional flavors in an unconventional yet delightful manner.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup coarse kosher salt (Diamond Crystal brand)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
- 2 tablespoons finely grated lemon peel
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
- 1 14- to 16-pound turkey; neck, heart, and gizzard reserved for stock
- 3 lemons, coarsely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
- 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 6 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, divided
- 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 cups Ultimate Turkey Stock or low-salt chicken broth, divided
- Greek-Inspired Fresh Oregano and Giblet Pan Gravy
Adviced Equipment
- Digital Instant-Read Thermometer: Accurate temperature readings to ensure perfect turkey doneness.
- Large Oven Roasting Pan with Rack: Ideal for roasting, designed to hold large birds and distribute heat evenly.
- Silicone Basting Brush Set: Provides a non-stick method to baste the turkey without damaging its skin.
- Baking Sheet with Rimmed Edge: A flat surface for preparation, helpful in roasting or baking other dishes simultaneously.
- Kitchen Oven Mitts: Durable mitts to protect hands while handling hot equipment and food.
- Digital Sous Vide Machine (Optional): For precise temperature control of the turkey’s brining process.
- Kitchen Scale (Optional): Accurate kitchen scale to measure spices and other components accurately.
- High-Speed Blender (Optional, e.g., Vitamix for making purees like lemon zest mix): A powerful blender that can create smooth and consistent emulsions or purees.
- Fresh Lemon Slicer / Citrus Press (Optional): Efficiently extracts lemon juice for use in dressings or as a garnish without peeling.
- Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls Set (Various Sizes, Optional): Versatile and durable bowls that can be used to mix marinades, baste, or combine ingredients before cooking.
- Kitchen Apron with Pockets (Optional for keeping utensils handy during preparation): Protective apron designed for easy access and storage of cooking tools while prepping food.
History of the Recipe
The Salt-Roasted Turkey recipe is a modern twist on age-old culinary practices, blending classic flavors with contemporary cooking techniques. Its roots can be traced back to various ancient civilizations’ methods of preserving and seasoning meat, reflecting humanity’s enduring relationship with food.
Fun Facts about this Recipe
Did you know? The use of kosher salt in cooking not only enhances flavor but also plays a role in the Jewish dietary laws. Additionally, roasting meat at high temperatures can create complex flavors due to the Maillard reaction, which is responsible for browning and adding depth to dishes.
