Roast Turkey with Spiced Butter

Name: Roast Turkey with Spiced Butter
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 230 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 tbsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 tsp ground allspice; 1 tsp ground cloves; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground); 1 5-6 kg whole turkey (thawed if frozen); 1 lemon (halved); 1 onion (quartered); 2 cups chicken broth; 3 tbsp olive oil

230 min 8 servings Medium

All Recipes

Roast Turkey with Spiced Butter

A succulent roast turkey infused with aromatic spiced butter, perfect for festive gatherings.

Prep

30 min

Cook

180 min

Total

230 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Roast turkey with spiced butter is a delightful centrepiece for any festive occasion, especially during the holiday season. The combination of juicy, tender turkey meat with the warm, aromatic flavours of spiced butter creates an unforgettable dining experience. This recipe ensures that your turkey remains moist and flavourful, with a beautifully golden and crisp skin. Whether you are hosting a large family gathering or a small intimate dinner, this roast turkey will impress your guests and make your meal memorable.

Ingredients

Servings

Spiced Butter

Turkey

Instructions

Prepare the Spiced Butter

In a bowl, mix the softened butter with cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.

Pro tip: Prepare the spiced butter a day ahead to intensify flavours.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

Prepare the Turkey

Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Rub the spiced butter evenly under the skin and on the surface of the turkey. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves and onion quarters.

Pro tip: Ensure the butter is evenly distributed for consistent flavour.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the pan. Brush the turkey with olive oil. Roast in the preheated oven, basting every 30 minutes, for about 3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the breast and thighs.

Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness.

Rest the Turkey

Once done, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving.

Pro tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.

Carve and Serve

Carve the turkey and serve with your favourite sides.

Pro tip: Use a sharp carving knife for clean slices.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Let the turkey rest before carving to retain juices.</li><li>Use a thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.</li><li>Baste the turkey every 30 minutes for a golden crust.</li><li>Prepare spiced butter a day ahead for deeper flavour.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Serve this roast turkey with classic sides like mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and green beans for a traditional holiday meal. For wine, opt for a full-bodied white like Chardonnay or a light red such as Pinot Noir to complement the spices. To make ahead, prepare the spiced butter a day in advance and let the turkey marinate overnight for enhanced flavours. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for up to three months.