Gordon Ramsay’s Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe That Will Make Your Guests Swoon

Gordon Ramsay is a world-renowned chef known for his fiery temper and high standards. But even the most demanding chef can appreciate a good Thanksgiving turkey. In this article, we’ll share Gordon Ramsay’s tips for cooking the perfect Thanksgiving turkey, from brining to roasting. So whether you’re a seasoned cook or a complete novice, read on for all the advice you need to make a Thanksgiving turkey that will impress even Gordon Ramsay himself!

Ingredients	Instructions	Image
1 (12- to 14-pound) turkey, giblets removed 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and sage) 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion 1/2 cup chopped celery 1/2 cup chopped carrot 1/4 cup dry white wine 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper	Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Place the turkey in a large roasting pan. In a small bowl, combine the butter, herbs, onion, celery, carrot, wine, salt, and pepper. Rub the butter mixture all over the turkey. Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil. Roast the turkey for 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Choosing the Right Turkey

When it comes to choosing the right turkey for Thanksgiving, there are a few factors to consider.

Size and weight

The size of your turkey will depend on the number of people you are cooking for. A general rule of thumb is to allow 1 pound of turkey per person. However, if you have some big eaters in your family, you may want to go up to 1.5 pounds per person.

When it comes to weight, turkeys typically range from 10 to 20 pounds. If you are cooking for a small group, you can get away with a smaller turkey. However, if you are cooking for a large group, you will need a larger turkey.

Fresh vs. frozen

You can choose between a fresh or frozen turkey. Fresh turkeys are typically more expensive, but they also have a better flavor. Frozen turkeys are less expensive, but they can be more difficult to cook evenly.

If you are planning on brining your turkey, a fresh turkey is the best option. Brining helps to keep the turkey moist, and it also helps to improve the flavor. However, if you are not planning on brining your turkey, a frozen turkey will work just fine.

Brining or dry-brining

Brining is a method of soaking a turkey in a salt water solution before cooking it. Brining helps to keep the turkey moist and flavorful. Dry-brining is a similar process, but instead of using a salt water solution, the turkey is rubbed with a mixture of salt, herbs, and spices.

Brining is the preferred method for cooking a turkey, but dry-brining is also a good option. If you are short on time, dry-brining is a great way to get a flavorful turkey without having to spend hours brining it.

Preparing the Turkey

Once you have chosen the right turkey, it is time to start preparing it. The following steps will help you to prepare your turkey for cooking.

Removing the giblets

The first step is to remove the giblets from the turkey. The giblets are the internal organs of the turkey, and they include the heart, liver, and gizzard. The giblets can be used to make gravy or stock.

To remove the giblets, first locate the neck opening on the bottom of the turkey. The neck opening is a small opening located just below the tail. Using your fingers, gently pull on the neck skin until you can see the giblets inside.

Once you can see the giblets, use a pair of kitchen shears to cut the bag that contains the giblets. Carefully remove the bag from the turkey and place it in a bowl.

The giblets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before using them.

Stuffing the turkey

Stuffing is a traditional way to cook a turkey. Stuffing is a mixture of bread, vegetables, and herbs that is placed inside the turkey before it is cooked.

There are many different recipes for stuffing, but the basic ingredients are bread, vegetables, and herbs. The bread can be either white bread or whole wheat bread. The vegetables can include celery, onions, carrots, and mushrooms. The herbs can include sage, thyme, rosemary, and parsley.

To stuff the turkey, first mix together the bread, vegetables, and herbs. Then, stuff the mixture into the turkey cavity. Be sure to pack the stuffing tightly so that it will not fall out during cooking.

The turkey can be stuffed either before or after it is cooked. If you are stuffing the turkey before it is cooked, it is important to cook the turkey at a low temperature so that the stuffing does not overcook.

Trussing the turkey

Trussing is a method of tying the legs and wings of a turkey together so that it will cook evenly. Trussing helps to keep the turkey in a compact shape, which allows it to cook more evenly.

To truss a turkey, first cut a piece of kitchen twine about 3 feet long. Then, tie the twine around the legs of the turkey, just above the ankles. Bring the ends of the twine together and tie them in a knot.

Next, tie the twine around the wings of the turkey, just above the elbows. Bring the ends of the twine together and tie them in a knot.

The turkey is now trussed and ready to cook.

3. Cooking the Turkey

Roasting

Roasting is the traditional method of cooking a turkey for Thanksgiving. It is a simple and straightforward method that produces a moist and flavorful bird.

To roast a turkey, you will need:

* A large roasting pan
* A meat thermometer
* A roasting rack
* A basting brush
* Salt and pepper
* Optional: herbs, spices, or marinade

To begin, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you are using a fresh turkey, rinse it inside and out under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.

If you are using a frozen turkey, thaw it in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before cooking.

Place the turkey breast-side up on the roasting rack in the roasting pan.

Season the turkey with salt and pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like.

Pour a cup of water or broth into the bottom of the roasting pan.

Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil.

Roast the turkey for 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Deep-frying

Deep-frying is a quick and easy way to cook a turkey for Thanksgiving. It produces a crispy and juicy bird that is perfect for a crowd.

To deep-fry a turkey, you will need:

* A large stockpot or deep fryer
* A turkey fryer basket
* Peanut oil
* A meat thermometer
* Salt and pepper
* Optional: herbs, spices, or marinade

To begin, preheat the oil in the stockpot or deep fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you are using a fresh turkey, rinse it inside and out under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.

If you are using a frozen turkey, thaw it in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before cooking.

Place the turkey breast-side up in the turkey fryer basket.

Season the turkey with salt and pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like.

Carefully lower the turkey into the hot oil.

Deep-fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Remove the turkey from the oil and let it drain on paper towels.

Serve the turkey immediately.

Smoking

Smoking is a slow and low-temperature method of cooking that produces a flavorful and moist turkey. It is a great option for those who want a smoky flavor in their turkey.

To smoke a turkey, you will need:

* A smoker
* A turkey
* Wood chips
* Salt and pepper
* Optional: herbs, spices, or marinade

To begin, preheat your smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you are using a fresh turkey, rinse it inside and out under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.

If you are using a frozen turkey, thaw it in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before cooking.

Season the turkey with salt and pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like.

Place the turkey in the smoker and smoke it for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Remove the turkey from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

4. Carving the Turkey

Carving a turkey can be a daunting task, but it is actually quite simple if you follow a few simple steps.

To carve a turkey, you will need:

* A sharp knife
* A carving board
* A platter
* A basting brush
* A meat thermometer

To begin, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes.

Place the turkey on a carving board.

Using a sharp knife, cut the skin between the breast and thigh.

Carefully remove the leg and thigh.

Repeat with the other leg and thigh.

Cut the breast in half lengthwise.

Cut each half of the breast into slices.

Serve the turkey immediately.

These are just a few tips for cooking a Thanksgiving turkey. With a little planning and preparation, you can easily cook a delicious and impressive turkey for your family and friends.

Here are some additional tips for cooking a turkey:

* Start planning your meal at least a week in advance. This will give you plenty of

Q: What is the best way to cook a turkey for Thanksgiving?

A: There are many different ways to cook a turkey for Thanksgiving, but Gordon Ramsay’s method is one of the most popular and foolproof. To cook a turkey using Gordon Ramsay’s method, you will need:

* A 12- to 14-pound turkey
* 1 cup of vegetable oil
* 1 tablespoon of salt
* 1 teaspoon of black pepper
* 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon of onion powder
* 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary
* 1/4 teaspoon of dried sage
* 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Rinse the turkey inside and out and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, combine the oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, sage, and cayenne pepper. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, inside and out.
4. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Q: How long do I brine a turkey for Thanksgiving?

A: The length of time you brine a turkey for depends on the size of the turkey. For a turkey that weighs 12 to 14 pounds, you will need to brine it for 24 hours. For a turkey that weighs 15 to 18 pounds, you will need to brine it for 36 hours.

Q: What is the best way to baste a turkey?

A: The best way to baste a turkey is to use a spoon or baster to drizzle melted butter or pan drippings over the turkey every 30 minutes or so. This will help to keep the turkey moist and flavorful.

Q: What is the best way to carve a turkey?

A: The best way to carve a turkey is to use a sharp knife and make long, slow cuts down the breastbone. Once you have removed the breast meat, you can cut the legs and wings off.

Q: What are some common mistakes people make when cooking a turkey?

A: Some common mistakes people make when cooking a turkey include:

* Not brining the turkey. Brining helps to keep the turkey moist and flavorful.
* Overcooking the turkey. The internal temperature of the turkey should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Not resting the turkey before carving. Resting the turkey allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy turkey.

Q: What are some tips for making a delicious Thanksgiving turkey?

A: Some tips for making a delicious Thanksgiving turkey include:

* Use a fresh, high-quality turkey.
* Brine the turkey for at least 24 hours.
* Cook the turkey to the correct internal temperature.
* Let the turkey rest for at least 15 minutes before carving.
* Serve the turkey with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Gordon Ramsay’s Thanksgiving turkey recipe is a delicious and easy-to-follow way to cook a turkey for your holiday feast. By following his tips, you can ensure that your turkey will be juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. So next time you’re looking for a foolproof turkey recipe, be sure to give Gordon Ramsay’s a try!

Here are some key takeaways from the content:

* Use a brine to help the turkey retain moisture.
* Roast the turkey breast-side up for the first half of cooking, then turn it breast-side down for the second half.
* Baste the turkey regularly with melted butter or pan drippings.
* Let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.

With these tips, you’ll be sure to make a Thanksgiving turkey that everyone will love!