Unlock the juiciest turkey ever with vicki lawrence’s legendary recipe

As we approach the heartwarming festivities of Thanksgiving, the search for the perfect turkey recipe intensifies. Enter the legendary Vicki Lawrence, an iconic actress and comedian, who generously shares her culinary masterpiece – the Vicki Lawrence Turkey Recipe. This delectable dish will tantalize your taste buds and become a cherished tradition at your holiday table.

Ingredients for the Perfect Turkey

• 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine

Step-by-Step Instructions: A Culinary Journey

1. Prepare the Turkey: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Rinse the turkey inside and out and pat dry with paper towels. Remove the neck and giblets from the cavity.
2. Create the Herb Butter: In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, onion, celery, carrots, sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Stuff the Turkey: Loosely fill the turkey cavity with half of the herb butter mixture. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine to keep the filling in place.
4. Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey breast-side up in a large roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth and white wine into the bottom of the pan. Cover the turkey loosely with foil and roast for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
5. Baste the Turkey: Every 30-45 minutes, remove the foil and baste the turkey with the pan juices. This will help keep the turkey moist and flavorful.
6. Check the Temperature: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh to ensure the turkey is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest the Turkey: Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 30-45 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful turkey.

Carving and Serving: A Feast for the Senses

1. Carve the Turkey: Using a sharp carving knife, carefully remove the legs and wings. Then, slice the breast meat into thin slices.
2. Arrange the Turkey: Place the carved turkey on a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs or vegetables for an elegant presentation.
3. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the turkey with your favorite sides and gravy, and savor the delicious flavors of this culinary masterpiece.

Tips for a Perfectly Roasted Turkey

• Choose a High-Quality Turkey: Opt for a fresh or frozen turkey that is free of bruises or tears.
• Brine the Turkey (Optional): Soaking the turkey in a brine solution for 12-24 hours before roasting enhances its flavor and juiciness.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: This is essential to ensure the turkey is cooked to perfection and safe to eat.
• Don’t Overcook the Turkey: Overcooking can dry out the turkey and make it tough.
• Let the Turkey Rest: This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more tender turkey.

Variations on the Recipe: Personalize Your Feast

• Add Spices to the Herb Butter: Enhance the flavors by adding spices such as cumin, paprika, or chili powder to the herb butter mixture.
• Roast Vegetables in the Pan: Add chopped vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions to the roasting pan to create a flavorful side dish.
• Use Different Liquids: Instead of chicken broth and white wine, you can use other liquids such as apple cider, orange juice, or vegetable broth.
• Glaze the Turkey: For a shiny and flavorful exterior, brush the turkey with a glaze made from honey, maple syrup, or fruit preserves.

FAQ: Answering Your Turkey-Related Queries

• Can I cook a smaller turkey? Yes, adjust the cooking time accordingly. For a 10-12 pound turkey, roast for 2-3 hours; for an 8-10 pound turkey, roast for 1-2 hours.
• How do I know if the turkey is done roasting? Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. It should read 165°F (74°C).
• Can I make the herb butter ahead of time? Yes, the herb butter can be made up to 2 days in advance and refrigerated. Bring it to room temperature before using.
• What is the best way to reheat leftover turkey? Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Wrap the turkey in foil and reheat for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until warmed through.
• Can I freeze the leftover turkey? Yes, cooked turkey can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap the turkey tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing.