Description
This Cheesecloth Turkey method ensures a moist and flavorful bird by draping cheesecloth soaked in butter and white wine over the turkey while it roasts.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Herb Butter and Wine Baste
- 1 to 1.5 cups Unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup Dry white wine ((pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc works))
- 4 to 6 cloves Garlic, minced or grated
- 1 big handful Fresh herbs (sage, thyme, rosemary, parsley)
- to taste Salt and black pepper
- optional Lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon (for brightness)
Whole Turkey Preparation
- 1 whole Turkey (about 10-12 pounds for 10 servings) (Consider 1 to 1.25 pounds per person.)
- as needed Broth (1 to 2 cups in the roasting pan)
Instructions
Preparation
- Thaw the turkey in the fridge if frozen, or use the cold water method if necessary.
- Pat the turkey dry and remove giblets and neck. Salt the cavity lightly.
- If desired, add halved onion, garlic, and herbs inside the turkey for aroma.
Making the Herb Butter
- Melt the butter over low heat in a saucepan, then stir in garlic, herbs, salt, pepper, and wine.
- Keep a small portion aside for basting later.
Preparing the Cheesecloth
- Soak a large piece of cheesecloth in the warm butter and wine mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- Drape the cheesecloth over the turkey, covering most of the surface.
Roasting the Turkey
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan with some broth underneath.
- Baste the turkey every 30 to 40 minutes, using the set-aside butter and wine mixture.
Finishing Touches
- Remove the cheesecloth during the last 30 to 45 minutes of roasting to allow the skin to crisp up.
- Check the internal temperature: breast should reach 160°F and thighs should be 170°F-175°F.
Resting and Carving
- Let the turkey rest for at least 20 to 30 minutes before carving.
- Carve the turkey and serve with pan juices.
Notes
If you love turkey but don’t always want a whole bird, try a roasted turkey breast option. Use real cheesecloth for best results. Prep the herb butter ahead of time if needed.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine: American, Holiday
Nutrition
- Calories: 300
- Sodium: 620
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Protein: 25