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Spatchcock Turkey

Spatchcock Turkey

  • Author: Christopher
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 8-10 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Discover the magic of Spatchcock Turkey, a simple cooking technique that transforms your holiday centerpiece into a juicy, flavorful feast with crispy skin and tender meat. Flattening the bird ensures even cooking and a perfectly cooked feast every time using natural ingredients and straightforward steps.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Whole Turkey: 10-12 pounds, fresh or thawed
  • Olive Oil (natural): 3 tablespoons
  • Fresh Herbs: 2 tablespoons each of rosemary, thyme, and sage, chopped
  • Garlic Cloves: 4 cloves, minced
  • Lemon Juice (natural): 2 tablespoons
  • Salt: 1 tablespoon
  • Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon
  • Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce (natural): 2 tablespoons
  • Paprika: 1 teaspoon

Optional Variations

  • Spicy Herb Mix: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili flakes
  • Citrus Twist: Add 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • Sweet Glaze: 2 tablespoons maple syrup (natural) mixed with 1 tablespoon grainy mustard (natural)
  • Garlic Butter (plant-based): 3 tablespoons, spread under the skin
  • Umami Boost: Substitute paprika with 1 teaspoon mushroom powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Turkey: Lay the turkey breast-side down on a sturdy cutting board. Using sharp kitchen shears or a knife, cut along each side of the backbone to remove it completely. This allows the bird to lie flat for even cooking.
  2. Flatten the Bird: Flip the turkey breast-side up and press firmly on the breastbone with your hands until you hear a crack. This helps the bird stay flat and cook evenly.
  3. Season Generously: Mix olive oil, fresh herbs, minced garlic, lemon juice, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this blend all over the turkey, making sure to coat under the skin for maximum flavor. If using garlic butter (plant-based), spread it under the skin before rubbing the seasoning.
  4. Let It Rest: Allow the turkey to marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator. This step lets the flavors penetrate deeply and makes for tender meat. For deeper flavor, marinate overnight.
  5. Roast to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the turkey on a rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan, skin side up on a rack or elevated surface for even air circulation. Roast for about 1.5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast and thighs.
  6. Rest Before Carving: Once out of the oven, let your Spatchcock Turkey rest for 15-20 minutes. This locks in the juices and makes carving easier.

Notes

  • Use kitchen shears to remove the backbone for safety and ease.
  • Pat the turkey skin dry with paper towels before seasoning to achieve crispiness.
  • Always monitor the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and ensure juiciness.
  • Resting the meat after cooking is essential to keep it moist and flavorful.
  • Use a roasting pan rack or elevated surface to allow air circulation for even cooking.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (about 6 oz cooked turkey)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 1 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 115 mg

Keywords: spatchcock turkey, roast turkey, crispy turkey, holiday turkey, juicy turkey, gluten free turkey

Find it online: https://easyrecipeplanet.com/spatchcock-turkey/