Tom Colicchio's Herb-Butter Turkey from 'The Epicurious Cookbook'

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When it comes to Thanksgiving, the star of the show is undoubtedly the turkey.

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Tom Colicchio's Herb-Butter Turkey from 'The Epicurious Cookbook'
Servings
8

Method

  1. Heat the butter in a large deep skillet over high heat. Cook the turkey necks and/or wings until they are deep brown (about 15 minutes).

  2. Add the onions, carrots, and celery to the skillet and cook until they are deep brown as well (about 15 minutes).

  3. Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  4. Strain the gravy base through a strainer into a 4-cup measuring cup, pressing on the solids to extract the liquid. If needed, add more chicken broth until you have 4 cups of gravy base.

  5. In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of butter and all the minced herbs. Season the herb butter with salt and pepper. Set aside 2 tablespoons of the herb butter for the gravy.

  6. Preheat the oven to 425°F and place a rack at the lowest position. Rinse the turkey inside and out, then pat it dry.

  7. Gently loosen the skin from the breast meat and rub 4 tablespoons of herb butter under the skin.

  8. Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Sprinkle salt and pepper generously inside the main cavity. Put 4 tablespoons of plain butter and all the herb sprigs inside the cavity. Tuck the wing tips under and loosely tie the legs together. Rub the remaining

About this recipe

When it comes to Thanksgiving, the star of the show is undoubtedly the turkey. And if you're looking to wow your guests with a mouthwatering, flavorful bird, look no further than Tom Colicchio's Herb-Butter Turkey from 'The Epicurious Cookbook'. This recipe is the epitome of Thanksgiving perfection, with juicy, tender meat and a golden, crispy skin that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, let's dive in and discover the secrets to making this culinary masterpiece.

Preparing the Herb-Butter

The first step in creating this delectable turkey is preparing the herb-butter. Imagine a creamy, herb-infused spread that melts into the meat, infusing it with a burst of flavor. It's like spreading sunshine on a slice of bread - pure magic. To make the herb-butter, you'll need a combination of fresh herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, and sage, finely chopped and mixed with softened butter. The result is a fragrant, herbaceous concoction that will elevate your turkey to new heights.

Trussing the Turkey

Once you have your herb-butter ready, it's time to truss the turkey. Think of trussing as giving your turkey a warm, cozy hug, keeping everything in place while it roasts to perfection. Trussing not only helps the turkey cook evenly but also ensures that the herb-butter stays in place, infusing every bite with its incredible flavor. So, grab your kitchen twine and get ready to work your trussing magic.

Roasting the Turkey

Now that your turkey is trussed and ready to go, it's time for the main event - roasting. Picture your turkey nestled in the oven, slowly cooking to perfection, filling your home with the irresistible aroma of herbs and butter. As the turkey roasts, the herb-butter will melt into the meat, creating a succulent, juicy turkey that will be the envy of every other Thanksgiving table in the neighborhood.

Basting and Resting

During the roasting process, it's essential to baste the turkey regularly. Basting is like giving your turkey a refreshing spritz, keeping it moist and adding an extra layer of flavor. As you baste, the herb-butter will continue to infuse the meat, ensuring that every bite is bursting with herbaceous goodness. And once the turkey is done, it's crucial to let it rest before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.

Carving and Serving

The moment has finally arrived - it's time to carve and serve your masterpiece. Imagine the anticipation as you slice through the crispy, golden skin, revealing the succulent, herb-butter-infused meat. Your guests will be salivating as you plate up their portions, eagerly waiting to taste the incredible flavors you've created. And with every bite, they'll understand why Tom Colicchio's Herb-Butter Turkey is the ultimate Thanksgiving showstopper.

Conclusion

Tom Colicchio's Herb-Butter Turkey from 'The Epicurious Cookbook' is more than just a recipe; it's a culinary experience. From the moment you prepare the fragrant herb-butter to the final slice of succulent, flavorful meat, this turkey will have you and your guests in awe. So, this Thanksgiving, don't settle for an ordinary bird - elevate your feast with Tom Colicchio's Herb-Butter Turkey. Your taste buds will thank you.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh for the herb-butter?

While fresh herbs are preferred for the best flavor, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Just remember to adjust the quantities as dried herbs are more potent.

. How long should I let the turkey rest before carving?

It's recommended to let the turkey rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy bird.

. Can I use a different type of poultry instead of turkey?

Absolutely! This herb-butter technique works well with other poultry like chicken or Cornish hens. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

. Can I make the herb-butter in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the herb-butter a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to let it soften before using it for trussing and roasting.

. Can I use unsalted butter for the herb-butter?

Yes, you can use unsalted butter if you prefer to control the saltiness of the dish. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

. What can I do with the turkey drippings?

The turkey drippings are perfect for making a flavorful gravy to accompany your turkey. Simply strain the drippings, whisk in some flour, and cook until thickened.

. Can I freeze the leftover turkey?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover turkey for future meals. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bags to maintain its quality.

. Can I use this herb-butter technique for other meats?

Absolutely! This herb-butter technique works well with other meats like beef or lamb. Just adjust the cooking time and temperature based on the specific meat you're using.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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