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:
- Citrus-infused marinade.
- Herb and garlic rub.
- Maple glaze.
- Cajun spice blend.
- Honey and mustard glaze.
- Rosemary and lemon zest rub.
- Apple cider brine.
- Pecan wood chips for a nutty undertone.
- Asian-inspired soy and ginger marinade.
- Cranberry glaze for a festive touch.
What to Serve With Smoked Turkey:
- Garlic mashed potatoes.
- Cranberry sauce.
- Roasted Brussels sprouts.
- Sweet potato casserole.
- Sausage stuffing.
- Grilled asparagus.
- Creamy macaroni and cheese.
- Green bean almondine.
- Roasted root vegetables.
- 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.
Smoked Turkey
Ingredients
- 13 lb Turkey
- Branch and Vine Garlic-Infused Olive Oil
- A Seasoning (or your preferred poultry seasoning)
- Compound Butter (check out my oven roasted chicken recipe for the ingredients)
Instructions
- Remove the turkey from the refrigerator, ensuring it has been brining for at least 20 hours. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
- Trim any excess skin or fat from the turkey. Prepare a compound butter and place it under the skin for added flavor.
- Apply the Branch and Vine Garlic-Infused Olive Oil generously all over the turkey, ensuring an even coating. Use the olive oil as a binder for the seasoning.
- Sprinkle A Seasoning (or your preferred poultry seasoning) evenly over the entire turkey. Massage the seasoning into the turkey, ensuring it adheres well.
- Preheat the grill to 400°F (204°C).
- Place the seasoned turkey on the preheated grill. Cook at 400°F for the first 30 minutes to achieve a beautiful color.
- After the initial 30 minutes, reduce the temperature to 335°F (168°C) for the remainder of the cooking time.
- Rotate the turkey every 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. Ensure it reaches a safe temperature for poultry.
- Let the turkey rest for about 15 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute. Carve the turkey into desired portions.
- Enjoy the flavorful and juicy smoked turkey with your favorite sides.
