Delicious and Mouthwatering Roast Turkey Recipe
Are you tired of the traditional turkey recipe that your family has been making for years? Do you want to add a touch of sophistication to your holiday meal? Look no further than this roast turkey with white-wine gravy recipe.
This recipe is the perfect way to elevate your cooking game and impress your guests. The key to this recipe is the use of dry white wine in the gravy, which adds a touch of acidity and brightness to the dish. This is the secret to creating a truly flavorful gravy that will have your guests raving.
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it is also easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a show-stopping dish that will take your holiday meal to the next level.
So why settle for a boring, traditional turkey recipe when you can make this roast turkey with white-wine gravy? Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a new holiday tradition in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you ready to take your Thanksgiving dinner to the next level? Look no further than this roast turkey with white-wine gravy recipe. Not only will it make your whole house smell fantastic while it’s cooking, but it also results in a juicy, flavorful turkey that your family and guests won’t forget any time soon.
But why should you choose this recipe amongst hundreds of others? Three words: wine, butter, and herbs. The combination of these three key ingredients is the secret to creating a delicious and memorable turkey recipe.
The dry white wine adds complexity to the turkey and boosts its natural flavors. Choose a wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc for an acidic brightness that pairs perfectly with turkey. The butter adds richness and depth, creating a velvety texture that will make every bite of turkey melt in your mouth. Finally, mixed fresh herbs provide a rich herbaceous flavor without overwhelming the bird. Altogether, these ingredients work their magic and create not only an unforgettable taste but also an amazing aroma throughout your home.
Additionally, this recipe is perfect for those who want to save time on preparing sides dishes as the white-wine gravy pairs beautifully with everything from mashed potatoes to carrots and green beans. Moreover, besides being satisfyingly delicious, this recipe has easy-to-follow instructions on roasting turkey with helpful tips on achieving perfectly roasted meat even if it’s your first time cooking a turkey.
So give it a try this Thanksgiving- impressing your beloved ones with the secret flavorful gravy made from a whole bottle of wine simmers in roasting pan while the turkey cooks is sure to earn you compliments at the table!
Ingredient List
- 1 (14-16 pound) turkey
- 2-3 cups of dry white wine (like pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc)
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Mixed fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and sage)
- Herb butter: 2/3 cup of softened unsalted butter mixed with finely chopped mixed fresh herbs
Ingredients for The White Wine Gravy
- Pan drippings from roasted turkey
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- Finely chopped medium-sized onion
- 2 cups of turkey or chicken stock
- 1 cup of dry white wine
- Water to adjust the consistency
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other Ingredient Options
To make the dish more flavorful, you can use a whole bottle of dry white wine for the gravy. This should be added to the pan once the turkey is done and before making the gravy. The wine simmers in the roasting pan while the turkey cooks, infusing it with more flavor.
Alternatively, you can substitute a portion or all of the white wine in both the turkey recipe and gravy recipe with stock. This adds richness and depth to the dish.
The Recipe How-To
Now, it’s time to get to the heart of this recipe: the step-by-step instructions on how to cook roast turkey with white-wine gravy. To ensure that your dish turns out perfectly, follow these instructions carefully.
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity.
- Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
- Rub all over with salt, including inside the cavity.
- Put mixed herbs under the skin of your bird.
- Stuff the cavity with onion.
Step 2: Roast the Turkey
- Put turkey in a roasting pan and place it in the oven (uncovered) for approximately 3-4 hours depending on your oven; baste every hour with leftover butter, and wine mixture.
- Check internal temperature at thickest part of thigh, which is done when it reaches 165°F.
Step 3: Make Gravy
- Once turkey is done cooking, remove it from pan (along with onion) and set aside; let it rest for AT LEAST 20 minutes before carving.
- Place roasting pan over medium heat (on stove top).
- Add dry white wine to pan drippings and stir until heated.
- Add broth (or water if you don’t have any) to pan along with unsalted butter; stir until melted
- Whisk in all-purpose flour until combined; let simmer until thickened (note: keep whisking constantly!)
- Lastly, add salt and pepper to taste.
That’s it – your roast turkey with white-wine gravy is now complete! You can now enjoy your delicious creation paired with some mouth-watering sides.
Substitutions and Variations
Are you looking to switch things up? There are a few different substitutions and variations you can try with this recipe.
First, if you don’t have any white wine on hand, you can swap it out for chicken or turkey stock, or even apple cider. A dry white wine like pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc is best, but any wine will do in a pinch.
If you want to mix things up when cooking your turkey, try rubbing herb butter under the skin before roasting. To make the herb butter, combine 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter with mixed fresh herbs. You can use any herbs you like – rosemary, thyme, and sage are all excellent choices.
If you’re cooking a smaller bird and don’t need as much gravy, you can cut the recipe in half. Simply use 1 cup of dry white wine and 2 cups of turkey stock, along with 3-4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to thicken.
For a gluten-free version of the gravy, swap out the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or another gluten-free thickener.
No matter which variation or substitution you choose, don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with flavors that complement your meal. The secret to a flavorful gravy is to use ingredients that work well together and add depth of flavor to your dish.
Serving and Pairing
After your delicious turkey has been cooked to perfection, it’s time to think about the perfect dishes to serve it with. Luckily, turkey is a versatile protein that pairs well with a variety of side dishes.
For a classic Thanksgiving meal, consider serving your roast turkey with traditional sides such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, roasted carrots, and green beans. The white-wine gravy in this recipe will complement these dishes perfectly, adding richness and flavor to your plate.
If you want to mix things up a bit and add some bright, fresh flavors to your meal, try serving your turkey with a citrusy salad composed of arugula, orange slices, and pomegranate seeds. The acidity of the salad will help cut through the richness of the gravy while providing a delicious contrast in flavor.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for something more indulgent, roasted root vegetables such as sweet potatoes or parsnips can help bring out the natural sweetness of the turkey while adding an earthy complexity to the dish.
When it comes to pairing wines with your roast turkey dinner, you’ll want to opt for something light and acidic that won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the meat. Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc are excellent options thanks to their bright acidity and fruity notes.
Overall, when serving your roast turkey with white-wine gravy, remember that simplicity is key. Let the flavors of each dish shine through without overwhelming them with heavy sauces or complicated preparations. Pair wisely and enjoy!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Roast turkey is a fabulous dish to serve when feeding a large crowd. However, the complexity of the recipe can create some difficulties for those prepping meals for festivities. There are several ways to make your preparation a bit easier. Here are some tips on how to make-ahead, store and reheat this white wine gravy recipe.
If you prepare this recipe ahead of time, it’s important to store each component separately. You can cook the turkey portion up to two days before serving and store the meat in an airtight container. The gravy can be made at least a day prior and stored in a covered container in the fridge. To reheat, use low heat in a saucepan with occasional stirring until warmed throughout.
If you intend to reheat your turkey, avoid cooking it excessively during the initial preparation so it maintains its texture upon reheating. A reheated bird that is not overcooked will taste moist and delicious. To reheat turkey in the oven, place preheated slices onto an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
However, not all components of this recipe are suited for make-ahead or storage. Both flour and butter products tend to break down over time, but you can always prepare them freshly as needed.
By knowing how to prepare and store your roast turkey with white-wine gravy ahead of time, you can save yourself a lot of hassle come mealtime. Your guests will appreciate the well-preserved flavors of your perfectly roasted turkey after following these storage and reheating tips.
Tips for Perfect Results
To achieve a delicious and succulent roast turkey with white-wine gravy, you must remember the secret to flavorful gravy is not only in the ingredients but also in the cooking process. Here are some tips that will help you perfect your turkey recipe:
1. Brine the turkey:
Brining your turkey helps to keep it juicy and flavorful. For every 2 cups (500 ml) of water, add 1/4 cup (60 ml) of kosher salt, 1/4 cup (60 ml) of sugar, and any aromatics you prefer. Submerge the turkey in the brine for at least 12 hours before rinsing off and cooking.
2. Stuffing:
While many people love cooking dressing inside their turkeys, this method increases the cooking time and risks unevenly cooked meat. It’s safer to cook your stuffing outside of the bird and then serve them together on your plate.
3. Use herb butter under the skin:
Herbs and butter under the skin infuse flavors to the meat and help to keep it moist. To make herb butter; combine chopped herbs with about 4 tablespoons (56 g) melted unsalted butter.
4. Use a roasting pan with a rack:
By using a roasting pan with a rack, air circulates around the turkey, resulting in even browning and perfect texture.
5. Baste regularly:
To ensure that your turkey stays moist, baste regularly during cooking, especially if your skin is browning too quickly.
6. Make an amazing gravy:
After removing the turkey from the roasting pan, pour off excess fat leaving only about 4 tablespoons (56 g). Add 1/2 cup (120 ml) dry white wine to deglaze and scrape up any browned bits. Then add 2-3 cups (500-750 ml) of turkey stock or water, bring it to a simmer, stir in a roux made from equal parts butter and all-purpose flour until the mixture thickens, season with herbs, salt, and black pepper.
With this 6 tips, you can improve your roasting turkey skill and make a delightful thanksgiving meal for everyone to enjoy.
FAQ
Before we conclude, let’s address some frequently asked questions about this delicious roast turkey with white-wine gravy recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these answers will help you achieve perfect results every time. Keep on reading to learn more.
Is white wine good for cooking turkey?
One way to enhance the flavor of gravy for turkey is by putting an entire bottle of dry white wine in the roasting pan while the turkey is being cooked. This contributes a tangy and lustrous aspect to the pan sauce, and it also helps in keeping the meat succulent as it cooks. Any dry white wine variety, such as sauvignon blanc and pinot grigio, will work.
What type of wine is best for turkey gravy?
When it comes to pairing wine with the traditional holiday feast, red wines are an excellent choice. They can enhance the taste of the turkey and other dishes, and add a delightful aroma to the meal. The combination of flavours will make your Christmas dinner even more enjoyable, especially when you pair the red wine with the rich and savory gravy.
What is the best white wine for roasting turkey?
If you’re looking for a great wine to go with roasted turkey, Chardonnay is definitely worth considering. Its versatility makes it the ideal choice to complement a range of flavors, including the subtle herbs used in basting. So when it comes to your holiday feast, you can’t go wrong with a coveted bottle of Chardonnay.
What white wine to use for gravy?
When it comes to pairing wine with heavy and creamy sauces, a thicker and more flavorful dry white wine is the way to go. Chardonnay is a popular choice due to its richness and versatility, making it a widely available option for those seeking the perfect white wine pairing.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this roast turkey with white-wine gravy recipe is the perfect dish for any special occasion or holiday gathering. The secret to its flavorful gravy is the whole bottle of dry white wine that simmers alongside the roasting pan as the turkey cooks. Adding a white wine like pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc adds acidity and brightness to the flavor profile of the dish.
Not only is this recipe impressive in taste, but it’s also easy to make with simple ingredients like unsalted butter, mixed fresh herbs, onions, and all-purpose flour. With a few simple substitutions and variations, you can customize it to your liking.
Whether you’re serving up a Thanksgiving feast or hosting a dinner party, this roast turkey with white-wine gravy recipe is sure to impress your guests. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the mouthwatering flavors for yourself!
Roast Turkey With White-Wine Gravy Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 lbs turkey (reserving neck and giblets,but excluding liver, for making stock)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1/2 cup)
- 8 sprigs mixed fresh herbs (such as thyme, sage, rosemary, and marjoram)
- 1 1/2 cups water
For gravy
- 1 large onion
- 1 1/2 cups dry white wine
- 4 cups turkey giblet stock
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Garnish: large bouquet of mixed fresh herb sprigs.
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Rinse turkey inside and out and pat dry.
- Fold neck skin under body and fasten with a small skewer.
- Using small skewers secure wings to body.
- Transfer turkey to a rack set in a roasting pan and melt butter.
- Brush inside of turkey with some butter and season with salt and pepper.
- Put herb sprigs inside body cavity.
- Brush outside of turkey with remaining butter and season with salt and pepper.
- Loosely tie drumsticks together with kitchen string.
- Roast turkey in middle of oven 1 hour.
- Add water to pan and roast turkey, basting every 20 minutes, 2 hours more, or until a meat thermometer inserted in fleshy part of a thigh registers 175°F and juices run clear when thigh is pierced.
- Transfer turkey to a heated platter and reserve juices in pan.
- Remove skewers and discard string.
- Let turkey stand 30 minutes.
- While turkey is standing, make gravy:.
- Finely chop onion.
- Skim fat from reserved pan juices and reserve 1/2 cup fat (for sautéing onions, below, and for stuffing).
- On top of stove deglaze pan with wine over moderately high heat, scraping up brown bits, and boil mixture until reduced to about 1/2 cup.
- Add 4 cups stock and bring to a simmer.
- Pour wine mixture through a sieve into a saucepan.
- In a large, heavy skillet sauté onion in 1/4 cup reserved fat over moderately high heat, stirring frequently, until browned, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in flour and cook roux over moderately low heat, whisking, 3 minutes.
- Bring wine mixture to a simmer.
- Add hot wine mixture to roux in a fast stream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, and simmer, whisking occasionally, 10 minutes.
- Whisk in additional stock to thin gravy to desired consistency.
- Season gravy with salt and pepper and transfer to a heated sauceboat.
- Garnish turkey with herb bouquet and serve with gravy.