Imagine a turkey so incredibly flavorful that it'll make your taste buds dance with excitement! This isn't your ordinary roast turkey - this is a culinary adventure that transforms the classic holiday centerpiece into a zesty, aromatic masterpiece infused with the bold flavors of cumin, garlic, and lime. Whether you're looking to impress your family or simply craving a twist on traditional roast turkey, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and create a memorable meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Total Time: 2 hrs 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 turkey (about 12 lbs)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp cumin
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove turkey from refrigerator 1 hour before cooking to bring to room temperature. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Pat turkey dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crisp skin. This helps create better browning and seasoning adherence.
- In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, cumin, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a fragrant marinade.
- Gently separate turkey skin from meat using your fingers, being careful not to tear the skin. Rub the prepared marinade mixture directly under the skin and all over the turkey's exterior.
- Place turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack inside a large roasting pan. If desired, stuff cavity with additional lime wedges and herbs like fresh thyme for extra flavor.
- Cover turkey loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning. Roast in preheated oven for approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature. Turkey is done when thickest part of thigh reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven, tent with foil, and let rest for 20-30 minutes before carving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Carve and serve, garnishing with fresh lime wedges and chopped cilantro if desired.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always bring your turkey to room temperature before cooking to ensure even roasting.
- Dry Skin Technique: Pat the turkey completely dry before seasoning. This crucial step guarantees crispy, golden-brown skin that's absolutely irresistible.
- Marinade Mastery: Don't just brush the marinade on top - gently work it under the skin for maximum flavor penetration.
- Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to hit that perfect 165°F internal temperature. This ensures juicy meat without drying out.
- Resting is Crucial: Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, making every slice incredibly moist.
- Optional Flavor Boost: Consider stuffing the cavity with extra lime wedges and fresh herbs like thyme for an additional flavor dimension.
- Garnish Gracefully: Finish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a beautiful presentation that adds a fresh, bright touch to your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 110mg
