Thanksgiving Turkey

Good

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Prepare the turkey for brining. Pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2

Set the neck aside for the stock. Cut off the wing tips and set aside with the neck.

Step 3

Butcher the turkey into 8 pieces: 2 breasts, 2 legs, 2 thighs, and 2 wings. Set aside the carcass for the stock.

Step 4

Combine the salt, brown sugar, pepper, and granulated garlic in a small bowl.

Step 5

Set a wire rack inside a baking sheet. Place the turkey parts skin-side up on the rack and generously sprinkle with the seasoning blend. Refrigerate, uncovered, for at least 2 hours, or overnight.

Step 6

Preheat the oven to 450˚F (230˚C).

Step 7

Place the turkey carcass, wing tips, and neck on a baking sheet with the onion, carrots, and celery. Season lightly with salt and drizzle with oil.

Step 8

Roast for 30-45 minutes, or until the carcass and vegetables are deep brown.

Step 9

Transfer the roasted vegetables, turkey carcass, and other parts to a large stock pot.

Step 10

From the still-warm baking sheet from roasting the carcass, pour any rendered fat into a small bowl. Add about 1 cup (240 ml) of water to the pan and scrape off any browned bits from roasting process, then pour into a separate bowl. Reserve for the gravy.

Step 11

Strain the stock, discarding the solids. The stock will keep for 5 days in the refrigerator or for 3 months in the freezer.

Step 12

Cover the carcass with cold water. Add the bay leaves and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Continue to simmer (don’t boil!) for 3 hours.

Step 13

Heat a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the turkey fat and flour, stirring to combine. Cook the fat and flour together, stirring constantly, for about 5 minutes.

Step 14

Gradually add the stock to the roux, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a boil, continuing to stir until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 15

Remove the pan from the heat and let cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator until ready to warm for serving with the turkey. The gravy will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Step 16

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220˚C).

Step 17

Remove the turkey parts from the fridge and drizzle with oil before placing in the hot oven.

Step 18

Roast for 30 minutes, then rotate the baking sheet to ensure even browning. Reduce the oven temperature to 400˚F (200˚C).

Step 19

Continue roasting until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of breast registers 160°F (70˚C) or when the thigh registers 170˚F (77˚C). Start checking after about 20 minutes, removing any parts from the oven as they reach proper temperature so that they don’t overcook.

Step 20

Once all parts are done, loosely cover with foil and let rest for 5-10 minutes while you warm the gravy.

Step 21

Add the gravy and sage, if using, to a medium saucepan over low heat and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Season to taste with more salt and pepper, if needed.

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