Doña Nery's Turkey
Preparing Thawed Turkey for Thanksgiving:
Start the turkey preparation process 48 hours before Thanksgiving.
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Prep the Turkey:
- Carefully separate the skin around the breast and thigh areas.
- Thoroughly dry these sections to ensure optimal seasoning adherence.
- Stand the turkey upright, allowing any excess water to drain out.
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Seasoning Mix:
- In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- 3 tsp. Spicy Caribbee Sunsational Garlic
- 2 tsp. sage
- 2 tsp. thyme
- Spicy Caribbee Herbed Sea Salt to taste
- 1 tsp. oregano
- 3 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil (adjust if necessary)
- 1 tsp. vinegar
- Season the turkey generously with Herbed Sea Salt both inside and out using the prepared mixture.
- In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients:
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Chill the Seasoned Turkey:
- Place a paper towel in a roasting pan.
- Position the turkey face down, cover with foil, and refrigerate until Thanksgiving Day.
On Thanksgiving Day:
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Final Seasoning and Stuffing:
- Remove excess water from the turkey and lightly season with Spicy Caribbee Herbed Sea Salt.
- Fill all cavities with your preferred stuffing.
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Prepare for Roasting:
- Cover the stuffing-filled cavities with foil to prevent burning.
- Tie the turkey's legs securely.
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Roasting Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
- For a stuffed turkey (10-18 lbs.), roast for 3.75 to 4.5 hours.
- For an unstuffed turkey, roast for 3 to 3.5 hours.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees.
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Resting Period:
- Once done, remove the turkey from the oven and let it stand for 20-30 minutes before carving.
Enjoy your Thanksgiving feast! Buen provecho!