Lauren's Apple Cider Roast Turkey Recipe

Cook Time: 240 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 15 servings

• 1 (16-pound) whole turkey, neck and giblets removed
• 1 gallons water
• 1 gallon apple cider
• 1 cups kosher salt
• 1 cup white sugar
• cup extra-virgin olive oil
• teaspoon dried thyme
• teaspoon poultry seasoning

Directions

Step 1: Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water and pat it dry using paper towels.

Step 2: In a large pot or 5-gallon food-grade bucket, combine the water, apple cider, kosher salt, and sugar. Stir until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved.

Step 3: Submerge the turkey in the brine mixture. Cover the and refrigerate for 8 hours to overnight.

Step 4: Preheat the oven to 325F (165C).

Step 5: Remove the turkey from the brine and discard the brine. Place the turkey breast-side up in a roasting pan. Pat both the turkey and its cavity dry with paper towels.

Step 6: Loosen the skin over the breast and thighs using your fingers. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, thyme, and poultry seasoning. Rub this mixture over the turkey and under the loosened skin.

Step 7: Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil.

Step 8: Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for 4 to 4 hours, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (not touching the bone) reads 165F to 175F (75C to 80C).

Step 9: About 45 minutes before the cooking time is up, remove the foil to allow the skin to brown.

Step 10: After roasting, let the turkey rest for 30 to 45 minutes before carving.

Editor's Notes

Always brine foods in a food-grade, nonreactive such as a stainless steel or enameled stockpot, a brining bag, or a food-grade plastic bucket. Never use ordinary trash bags, plastic trash cans, or metal buckets or s not meant for food use.

The nutrition data for this recipe includes the full amount of the brine ingredients. The actual amount of the brine consumed will vary.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	952	-
Total Fat	38g	48%
Saturated Fat	10g	52%
Cholesterol	286mg	95%
Sodium	9387mg	408%
Total Carbohydrate	49g	18%
Total Sugars	44g	-
Protein	98g	196%
Calcium	103mg	8%
Iron	6mg	35%
Potassium	981mg	21%

History of Apple Cider Roast Turkey

Lauren's Apple Cider Roast Turkey recipe is a modern twist on the traditional Thanksgiving turkey. While turkey itself is a staple in American cuisine, the use of apple cider as a brining ingredient adds a unique flavor that distinguishes it from other methods. The tradition of brining turkey dates back centuries, with roots in early preservation techniques. Brining helps keep the meat moist and flavorful, a method especially crucial when preparing a large bird like turkey. The incorporation of apple cider brings a slightly sweet and tangy dimension that complements the savory flavors of the poultry, making it a memorable dish for holiday feasts.

Regional Characteristics

This recipe is particularly popular in the United States, where Thanksgiving is celebrated with grand feasts. The use of apple cider reflects the agricultural abundance of the Northeast, where apple orchards are abundant. In these regions, cider is often used in a variety of dishes, from sauces to roasts. This recipe might not be as common in the South, where more traditional preparations like deep-frying or slow-roasting are favored. Nonetheless, the inclusion of apple cider adds a modern flair that appeals to those looking for a different way to prepare their holiday turkey.

How it Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike more traditional roast turkey recipes, which typically rely on butter or a simple herb rub, Lauren's Apple Cider Roast Turkey uses a brine made of apple cider, water, salt, and sugar. This sweet and savory brine not only enhances the turkey's flavor but also ensures it remains moist throughout the cooking process. Other similar dishes, such as Peking duck, also focus on caramelization and crispy skin, but they are typically cooked with a different method and flavor profile. The addition of cider in this recipe results in a tender bird with a subtle sweetness that sets it apart from other roast turkey preparations.

Where It Is Typically Served

Lauren's Apple Cider Roast Turkey is most commonly served during Thanksgiving in the United States, although it can also be a centerpiece for other holidays such as Christmas or Easter. The recipe is perfect for large gatherings, as it yields enough turkey to feed a crowd. It is also ideal for family dinners or festive celebrations, where its rich flavor and moist texture will impress guests. The dish is often paired with classic sides like mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and stuffing, making it a versatile and well-loved main course for holiday meals.

Interesting Facts About the Recipe

One interesting fact about this recipe is that it has become a holiday staple for many families who are looking for a way to elevate their turkey game. The use of apple cider in the brine not only imparts a unique flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, which is a game changer for those who often find turkey breast dry and overcooked. Additionally, the brining process used in this recipe allows the turkey to absorb flavors more deeply, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful bird. The foil-covered roasting technique ensures the skin doesn't over-brown, while removing it towards the end allows it to crisp up perfectly, giving the turkey a beautiful golden finish.

FAQ about Lauren's Apple Cider Roast Turkey Recipe

Comments