Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze
Highlighted under: Spring Seasonal Food Inspiration
Enjoy a succulent roasted turkey with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze, perfect for your holiday feast.
Roasting a turkey can be daunting for many, but this cranberry glaze elevates the dish to new heights. The tartness of the cranberries counterbalances the rich flavor of the turkey, making it a staple for any festive occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Juicy turkey infused with a sweet and tangy glaze
- Perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings
- Easy to follow steps for a delicious outcome
Ingredients
For the Turkey
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
For the Cranberry Glaze
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey and pat it dry. Rub the olive oil all over the turkey and season generously with salt and pepper.
Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the pan and roast for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the turkey every 30 minutes.
While the turkey is roasting, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and cinnamon in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 15 minutes. Set aside.
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Return to the oven and continue roasting until the skin is caramelized and the turkey is cooked through.
Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve with the remaining cranberry glaze on the side.
Enjoy your delicious roasted turkey with a delightful cranberry glaze!
Why Cranberry Glaze?
Cranberries are often associated with the holiday season, making them a perfect choice for glazing your turkey. The tartness of the cranberries cuts through the richness of the turkey, providing a balanced flavor profile that enhances the overall dish. The addition of orange juice and zest introduces a citrusy brightness that complements the cranberries beautifully.
Moreover, cranberry glaze is incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients, you can create a sauce that elevates your turkey without overpowering it. This glaze not only adds flavor but also contributes to a stunning presentation with its vibrant color. It's a simple yet effective way to make your holiday turkey truly special.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have any leftover turkey, it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its flavor and texture. Allow the turkey to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for longer storage—up to 6 months. Just be sure to label your containers to keep track of your leftovers.
When it comes to reheating, the key is to do so gently to avoid drying out the meat. You can reheat turkey slices in the oven at a low temperature or in a skillet with a little broth to keep it moist. Microwaving is also an option, but be sure to cover the turkey and heat it in short intervals to prevent overcooking. Enjoy your delicious turkey in a variety of meals even after the holiday!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen turkey?
Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking.
→ How do I know when the turkey is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
→ Can I make the cranberry glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
→ What should I serve with the turkey?
Consider serving with mashed potatoes, green beans, and stuffing for a complete meal.
Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze
Enjoy a succulent roasted turkey with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze, perfect for your holiday feast.
Created by: Imani Brooks
Recipe Type: Spring Seasonal Food Inspiration
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Turkey
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
For the Cranberry Glaze
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey and pat it dry. Rub the olive oil all over the turkey and season generously with salt and pepper.
Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the pan and roast for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the turkey every 30 minutes.
While the turkey is roasting, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and cinnamon in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 15 minutes. Set aside.
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Return to the oven and continue roasting until the skin is caramelized and the turkey is cooked through.
Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve with the remaining cranberry glaze on the side.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 36g