Cajun turkey gravy –If you’re looking to elevate your holiday feast, this Cajun Turkey with Orange Oregano Gravy is an excellent choice that combines bold flavors with classic techniques. This recipe will guide you through creating a succulent turkey that’s sure to impress your guests.
Cajun Turkey with Orange Oregano Gravy
This dish features a perfectly seasoned turkey, infused with the zesty notes of orange and the aromatic essence of oregano. The result is not only a visually stunning centerpiece but also a meal bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
- 1 stick of unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, quartered
- Fresh herbs (such as rosemary and sage) for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a small bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, orange zest, and softened butter together to form a spice rub.
- Pat the turkey dry with paper towels and place it on a roasting rack inside a roasting pan.
- Gently lift the skin over the turkey breast and rub half of the spice mixture directly onto the meat. Rub the remaining mixture all over the skin of the turkey.
- Stuff the cavity of the turkey with the quartered onion, minced garlic, and additional fresh herbs for extra flavor.
- Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan to keep the turkey moist during cooking.
- Roast the turkey in the preheated oven, basting every 30 minutes with the pan juices. The general rule of thumb is to roast for about 15-20 minutes per pound.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The turkey is cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast and thigh.
- Once done, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and flavorful turkey.
- For the gravy, strain the drippings from the roasting pan into a saucepan, adding in the orange juice and fresh oregano, and simmer until slightly thickened.
- Serve the carved turkey drizzled with the orange oregano gravy, garnished with fresh herbs.
This Cajun Turkey is not only a delightful addition to your table but also a dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of the season. Enjoy your culinary adventure!