Ingredients for Roast Turkey

• 1 onion, cut into 4 pieces
• Fresh bay leaves (for flavoring and serving)
• 10-12 lb bronze turkey (weight range of 4.5-5.6 kg), giblets removed
• 1 quantity of stuffing (optional)
• 85g butter, softened
• 1 whole nutmeg
• 10 strips of streaky bacon
• 1 glass of red wine (such as Merlot)
• To serve: Pigs-in-blankets

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Note: These nutritional values are subject to changes based on portion size and any ingredient substitutions used. Turkey is a great source of lean protein, though adding bacon and stuffing will increase the calorie content.

Method: How to Prepare a Christmas Roast Turkey

Step 1: Preparing the Turkey for Roasting

Preheat your oven to 190°C (fan 170°C / Gas mark 5). Start by placing the onion quarters and a large sprig of bay leaves inside the turkey’s cavity, between the legs. If you’re using stuffing, pack half into the neck end of the turkey. Secure the neck with skewers and tie the drumsticks together at the top for a neat shape.

Step 2: Calculate Cooking Time

Weigh your turkey, then calculate cooking time at 20 minutes per kilo, plus an additional 70 minutes. Use bathroom scales if necessary.

Step 3: Roasting the Turkey

Place a large sheet of extra-wide foil over a large roasting tin and place the turkey on top. Smear the turkey breast with softened butter, grate half of the nutmeg over it, and season well. Cover the turkey with streaky bacon and pour red wine into the tin. Loosely seal the foil around the turkey, forming a parcel.

Step 4: Roast and Brown the Turkey

Place the turkey in the oven to roast. About 90 minutes before the turkey is done, remove the foil, discard the bacon, and drain off excess fat. Return the turkey to the oven uncovered to allow it to brown, basting with its own juices. Add pigs-in-blankets and stuffing (if using) 30 minutes before the turkey is finished.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

To ensure the turkey is cooked through, insert a skewer into the thickest part of the thigh. The juices should run clear. If pink, cook for 15 more minutes and test again.

Step 6: Resting the Turkey

Once cooked, transfer the turkey to a serving platter and cover with foil and tea towels. Let it rest for up to 30 minutes before carving. This helps redistribute the juices for a juicier turkey. Garnish with fresh bay leaves before serving.

Tips for Serving and Preparing for the Christmas Feast

Serve this Christmas roast turkey alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and delicious gravy. Pigs-in-blankets will take your festive meal to the next level!

Why This Roast Turkey is a Must for Christmas

This roast turkey recipe is ideal for Christmas dinner because it’s stress-free, flavorful, and can serve a large crowd. The combination of fresh bay leaves, nutmeg, and bacon creates a beautiful aroma, while the turkey itself stays moist and tender.