Mouthwatering Recipe for Smoked Turkey

Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a weekend barbecue, our Smoked Turkey recipe is bound to steal the spotlight. Imagine a turkey so succulent and flavorful that each bite is a celebration of taste. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of creating a masterpiece that will have your guests coming back for seconds.

Smoking a turkey isn’t just about cooking; it’s about infusing rich, smoky flavors into every fiber of the meat. The result? A juicy and tender turkey with a beautifully bronzed exterior that’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate. By following our recipe, you’ll elevate your culinary skills, impressing your family and friends with a dish that’s both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a journey into the world of expertly smoked poultry.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (13 pounds)
• Branch and Vine Garlic-Infused Olive Oil
• A Seasoning (or your preferred poultry seasoning)
• Compound Butter (ingredients available in our oven roasted chicken recipe)

Step-by-Step Guide:

Prepare the Turkey:

• Remove the turkey from the refrigerator after brining for a minimum of 20 hours.
• Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.

Trim and Flavor:

• Trim excess skin or fat.
• Optionally, prepare compound butter and place it under the turkey’s skin for enhanced flavor.

Infuse with Garlic-Infused Olive Oil:

• Apply Branch and Vine Garlic-Infused Olive Oil generously to create a flavorful base for the seasoning.

Season the Turkey:

• Sprinkle A Seasoning evenly over the entire turkey.
• Massage the seasoning into the turkey for even distribution.

Preheat the Grill:

• Preheat the grill to 400°F (204°C).

Initial Smoking:

• Place the seasoned turkey on the preheated grill.
• Smoke at 400°F for the first 30 minutes for a beautiful color.

Adjust Temperature:

• After 30 minutes, reduce the temperature to 335°F (168°C) for the remaining cook time.

Rotate for Even Cooking:

• Rotate the turkey every 30 minutes to ensure uniform smoking.

Check Temperature:

• Use a meat thermometer to confirm the turkey reaches a safe internal temperature for poultry.

Rest and Carve:

• Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before carving.
• Carve the turkey into delectable portions.

Serve and Enjoy:

• Pair the flavorful smoked turkey with your favorite sides for a culinary delight.

Expert Tips and Tricks:

• Experiment with wood chips for different smoky flavors.
• Consider injecting the turkey for an extra burst of flavor.
• For a crispy skin, pat the turkey dry before applying the oil and seasoning.

Variations:

1. Citrus-infused marinade.
2. Herb and garlic rub.
3. Maple glaze.
4. Cajun spice blend.
5. Honey and mustard glaze.
6. Rosemary and lemon zest rub.
7. Apple cider brine.
8. Pecan wood chips for a nutty undertone.
9. Asian-inspired soy and ginger marinade.
10. Cranberry glaze for a festive touch.

What to Serve With Smoked Turkey:

1. Garlic mashed potatoes.
2. Cranberry sauce.
3. Roasted Brussels sprouts.
4. Sweet potato casserole.
5. Sausage stuffing.
6. Grilled asparagus.
7. Creamy macaroni and cheese.
8. Green bean almondine.
9. Roasted root vegetables.
10. Fresh garden salad.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerate leftover turkey within two hours of cooking.
• Store in airtight containers or wrap tightly in aluminum foil.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

How Much Smoked Turkey for Family Gatherings?

Plan for about 1 to 1.5 pounds of turkey per person to ensure there’s plenty for everyone. Consider factors like additional protein sources and the number of side dishes.