Thomas Keller’s Roast Turkey: The Best Way to Cook a Thanksgiving Turkey

ByMike Thompson Turkey For Thanksgiving

Thomas Keller’s Roast Turkey

When it comes to roast turkey, Thomas Keller is the undisputed master. His method is simple but foolproof, resulting in a perfectly cooked bird that is juicy and flavorful. In this article, we will walk you through Keller’s step-by-step process, so you can enjoy a delicious and impressive Thanksgiving turkey this year.

Ingredients Instructions Notes
– 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 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 		1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).
2. Rinse the turkey inside and out and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, combine the butter, herbs, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, inside and out.
4. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for 3 1/2 to 4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) at the thickest part of the thigh.
5. Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before carving. 		* The turkey can be roasted in a preheated 425 degrees F (220 degrees C) oven for 30 minutes, then reduced to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C) and roasted for the remaining time.
* The turkey can also be roasted in a slow cooker on low for 8 to 10 hours.
* Serve the turkey with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, and gravy.

Ingredients

For the turkey:

* 1 (15- to 20-pound) fresh or frozen turkey, thawed
* 2 cups (4 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup packed light brown sugar
* 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, and sage
* 1/4 cup finely chopped shallots
* 1 teaspoon kosher salt
* 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the gravy:

* 1 cup turkey drippings
* 1/2 cup dry white wine
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
* 1 cup chicken broth

Equipment

* A large roasting pan
* A meat thermometer
* A basting brush
* A slotted spoon
* A gravy boat

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 large bowl, combine the butter, brown sugar, mustard, herbs, shallots, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the butter mixture all over the turkey, inside and out.
5. Place the turkey in the roasting pan and roast for 3 1/2 to 4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the pan drippings.
7. Remove the turkey from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Gravy

1. While the turkey is resting, make the gravy.
2. In a medium saucepan, over medium heat, bring the turkey drippings to a boil.
3. Whisk in the flour, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook for 1 minute, or until the gravy thickens.
5. Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the gravy is reduced and thickened.
7. Serve the gravy with the turkey.

Conclusion

Thomas Keller’s roast turkey is a classic holiday dish that is sure to impress your guests. The flavorful butter mixture and the long, slow roasting process result in a moist, juicy turkey that is perfect for any occasion. Be sure to make plenty of gravy to serve with the turkey!

Ingredients

* 1 (14- to 16-pound) fresh turkey, giblets removed
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, and sage
* 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
* 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
* 1/4 cup dry white wine
* 1/4 cup chicken broth
* 1 teaspoon kosher salt
* 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Rinse the turkey inside and out, and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, combine the butter, herbs, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, wine, broth, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the turkey inside and out with the butter mixture.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan, breast-side up.
6. Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil.
7. Roast the turkey for 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) at the thickest part of the thigh.
8. Remove the turkey from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Tips

* To make sure the turkey is cooked through, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
* If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can check to see if the turkey is done by inserting a skewer into the thickest part of the thigh. The juices should run clear when the turkey is done.
* To make the turkey more flavorful, you can brine it in a salt water solution for several hours or overnight before roasting.
* You can also roast the turkey on a rotisserie for a more evenly cooked bird.
* Serve the turkey with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, and gravy.

Thomas Keller’s roast turkey is a delicious and flavorful way to celebrate Thanksgiving or any other special occasion. With its crispy skin and moist, flavorful meat, this turkey is sure to be a hit with your guests.

Q: What is the Thomas Keller Roast Turkey?

A: The Thomas Keller Roast Turkey is a classic holiday dish that is known for its moist and flavorful meat. It is made by roasting a turkey breast-side up in a low oven for a long period of time. This allows the meat to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in a juicy and tender finished product.

Q: What are the ingredients for the Thomas Keller Roast Turkey?

A: The ingredients for the Thomas Keller Roast Turkey include a turkey breast, salt, pepper, garlic, thyme, and butter.

Q: How long does it take to cook the Thomas Keller Roast Turkey?

A: The Thomas Keller Roast Turkey takes approximately 3 hours to cook.

Q: What is the best way to reheat the Thomas Keller Roast Turkey?

A: The Thomas Keller Roast Turkey can be reheated in the oven, on the stovetop, or in the microwave.

Q: What are some tips for making the Thomas Keller Roast Turkey?

A: Here are some tips for making the Thomas Keller Roast Turkey:
* Use a fresh turkey that is not too large.
* Truss the turkey loosely so that the meat has room to cook evenly.
* Roast the turkey in a low oven for a long period of time.
* Baste the turkey regularly with melted butter or pan drippings.
* Let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.

Q: What are some common mistakes people make when making the Thomas Keller Roast Turkey?

A: Here are some common mistakes people make when making the Thomas Keller Roast Turkey:
* Using a turkey that is too large.
* Trussing the turkey too tightly.
* Roasting the turkey at too high of a temperature.
* Not basting the turkey regularly.
* Not letting the turkey rest before carving.

Q: What are some variations on the Thomas Keller Roast Turkey?

A: There are many variations on the Thomas Keller Roast Turkey, including:
* Using a different type of seasoning, such as herbs, spices, or a dry rub.
* Stuffing the turkey with a variety of ingredients, such as bread, vegetables, or fruit.
* Roasting the turkey in a different type of oven, such as a convection oven or a smoker.
* Carving the turkey in a different way, such as into individual pieces or a whole breast.

Thomas Keller’s roast turkey is a delicious and impressive dish that is sure to impress your guests. The key to this recipe is to brine the turkey for several days, which helps to keep it moist and flavorful. The herb butter and pan sauce add additional flavor and richness, and the simple cooking method ensures that the turkey is cooked perfectly every time. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday dinner or a special occasion, Thomas Keller’s roast turkey is sure to be a hit.

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

* Brining the turkey for several days helps to keep it moist and flavorful.
* The herb butter and pan sauce add additional flavor and richness.
* The simple cooking method ensures that the turkey is cooked perfectly every time.

With these tips, you can easily create a delicious and impressive roast turkey that will be the star of your next holiday dinner.

Author Profile

Mike Thompson
Mike Thompson
Hello, fellow turkey enthusiasts! I'm Mike Thompson, a proud resident of the picturesque state of Missouri, renowned for its thriving turkey population and favorable hunting conditions. For over a decade, I've roamed the woods, valleys, and peaks of our beautiful state, learning every nook, cranny, and secret that turkey hunting has to offer. My track record? Well, let's just say I've bagged more turkeys than there are days in November, and each hunt has added a story to my ever-growing book of experiences.

However, as much as I love the thrill of the hunt, what truly fuels my passion is the joy of sharing my knowledge with others. That's why I created this platform. This site is not just a testament to my journey but a beacon for all those who are looking to embark on their own turkey hunting adventures. Whether you're a beginner eager to get started or a seasoned pro seeking advanced tips, you'll find a wealth of information here.

From understanding turkey behavior, tracking techniques, and the best equipment to use, to the do's and don'ts of turkey hunting, this site is a comprehensive guide to all things turkey. So, strap on your boots, pick up your gear, and let's embark on a journey together into the world of turkey hunting. Welcome to my site, and happy hunting!