Festive Roast Turkey Breast
- Dinner
- December 12, 2024
- No Comment
- 67
The holidays are all about creating memories around the table, and what better way to do that than with a dish that feels fancy but doesn’t take all day to prepare? Enter this Festive Roast Turkey Breast, a recipe that’s as impressive as it is approachable.
Picture this: a perfectly roasted turkey breast, juicy and tender, wrapped in crispy, savory beef bacon. Nestled inside is a fragrant stuffing bursting with the sweetness of cranberries, the nuttiness of almonds, and the gentle aroma of sautéed leeks. The whole thing roasts up beautifully in under two hours, leaving you enough time to enjoy the festivities instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
I first made this dish when I wanted something festive but less overwhelming than a whole turkey. Let me tell you—it was a hit. The stuffing, with its balance of sweet and savory, has a way of stealing the show. And the bacon wrapping? It’s like a little holiday gift for your taste buds!
Whether it’s Christmas dinner with family or a smaller, cozy Thanksgiving gathering, this dish is the perfect answer. Plus, it’s just as impressive on the table as it is easy to make. Pair it with a few classic sides, pour the rich, glossy gravy over the top, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to bring everyone together.
Ingredients for the Turkey Feast: Detailed Breakdown
For the Stuffing
- 1 tbsp sunflower oil: A neutral oil that’s ideal for sautéing the vegetables, as it doesn’t overpower the flavors. Olive oil can be substituted if preferred.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the stuffing, serving as a flavorful base. Use yellow or white onions for the best results.
- 1 leek, finely sliced: Leeks have a mild onion-like taste that enhances the stuffing with a delicate and aromatic flavor. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to remove any grit.
- 50g dried cranberries: These provide a sweet and tangy burst of flavor, balancing the savory elements of the dish. Ensure they are unsweetened for a more natural taste.
- 25g flaked almonds: Lightly toasted almonds add a subtle nutty crunch, enhancing the stuffing’s texture. Substitute with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
- Zest of 1 lemon (finely grated): Brings brightness and a hint of citrus, elevating the stuffing’s overall flavor. Use a microplane for finely grated zest.
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, roughly chopped: A classic herb that offers a subtle earthiness and pairs wonderfully with poultry and cranberries. If fresh thyme isn’t available, use 1 tsp of dried thyme.
- 40g dried breadcrumbs: Helps bind the stuffing together and absorbs the flavors of the other ingredients. Panko breadcrumbs work well for a lighter texture.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Enhances the flavors of the stuffing, balancing the sweetness of the cranberries and the nuttiness of the almonds.
For the Turkey
- 1.5kg turkey breast joint (fully thawed if frozen): The star of the dish, turkey breast is lean and tender when cooked properly. Ensure it’s fully thawed and pat it dry to promote even cooking.
- 16 rashers of beef bacon: Adds smoky, savory richness and keeps the turkey moist while roasting. Turkey bacon or a vegetarian alternative can be used if needed.
- 2 tbsp sunflower oil, plus extra for oiling: Used to brush the turkey and bacon, ensuring they crisp up beautifully during roasting. You can also use melted butter for added flavor.
- Fresh thyme and bay leaves, for garnish: Adds visual appeal and infuses subtle herbal notes to the dish. Place around the turkey or in the roasting pan for aromatic enhancement.
For the Gravy
- 2 tbsp plain flour: Used to thicken the gravy, creating a smooth and silky texture. Substitute with cornstarch for a gluten-free version.
- 450ml chicken stock: Forms the base of the gravy, adding savory depth. Use homemade stock or a high-quality store-bought option for the best flavor.
- 1 tbsp redcurrant jelly: Adds a touch of sweetness and a subtle tartness that complements the turkey and stuffing. Cranberry jelly or apple jelly can be used as alternatives.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the gravy, ensuring it’s well-balanced and flavorful. Taste and adjust as needed.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Stuffing
- Heat 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion and leek until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cranberries, flaked almonds, lemon zest, fresh thyme, and breadcrumbs. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Turkey
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and lightly oil a roasting tin.
- Carefully butterfly the turkey breast by cutting it lengthwise, but not all the way through. Open it like a book and flatten slightly with a meat mallet.
- Spread the prepared stuffing evenly over the turkey breast. Roll it tightly into a log and secure with kitchen twine.
- Lay the beef bacon rashers over the rolled turkey breast, overlapping slightly to cover completely. Tuck in the ends.
- Brush the bacon-wrapped turkey with 2 tablespoons of sunflower oil.
3. Roast the Turkey
- Place the turkey in the prepared roasting tin. Add fresh thyme and bay leaves around the joint for extra fragrance.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes, basting occasionally with the pan juices.
- Check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey—it should read 74°C (165°F).
4. Make the Gravy
- Remove the turkey from the tin and let it rest, covered loosely with foil.
- Place the roasting tin over medium heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of plain flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Gradually add the chicken stock, stirring to deglaze the pan and dissolve the flavorful bits.
- Stir in the redcurrant jelly and simmer until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve
Slice the turkey into generous portions and serve with the warm gravy. Garnish with fresh thyme and bay leaves for a festive touch.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this roast turkey breast with classic sides like mashed potatoes, honey-glazed carrots, or buttered green beans.
- Add a touch of indulgence with creamy potatoes au gratin or parsnip puree.
- A simple cranberry sauce or fig chutney complements the stuffing’s fruity notes beautifully.
Make It Your Own: Creative Variations
This roast turkey breast recipe is versatile and easy to customize to suit dietary needs, flavor preferences, or available ingredients. Here are some detailed ways to make it your own:
Vegetarian Stuffing Option
- Replace the beef bacon with vegetarian or plant-based bacon for a smoky flavor without meat.
- Skip the bacon entirely and brush the turkey with melted butter or olive oil for a golden, crispy finish.
- For the stuffing, incorporate sautéed mushrooms or chestnuts to create a rich, earthy depth. Mushrooms like cremini or shiitake bring a hearty texture, while chestnuts add sweetness and a festive flair.
Different Herbs
- Experiment with other fresh herbs to create unique flavor combinations:
- Rosemary: Adds a piney, aromatic touch that pairs beautifully with poultry.
- Sage: Perfect for holiday dishes, its bold and slightly peppery flavor adds warmth to the stuffing.
- Parsley: For a milder, fresher taste, parsley lightens up the stuffing while complementing the other ingredients.
- Consider combining herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage for a robust, herbaceous stuffing.
Fruit Variations
- Swap out the cranberries for:
- Dried Cherries: Slightly tart with a hint of sweetness, these provide a sophisticated twist.
- Chopped Apricots: Their natural sweetness complements the savory turkey beautifully.
- Golden Raisins: For a mild and subtly sweet option that pairs well with almonds and breadcrumbs.
- Add a splash of orange juice or zest to intensify the fruity notes in the stuffing.
Nut-Free Option
- Leave out the almonds if you’re serving guests with nut allergies.
- Increase the breadcrumbs slightly to maintain the stuffing’s structure.
- Add texture by incorporating:
- Diced Celery: Provides a crunchy contrast to the soft leeks and onions.
- Cooked Quinoa: Offers a protein-packed, nut-free alternative with a fluffy texture.
- For an extra flavor boost, use roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds as a nut-free topping for garnish.
Additional Customization Ideas
- Cheese Lovers: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese to the stuffing for a creamy and tangy touch.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika to the stuffing for a subtle kick.
- Citrus Brightness: Incorporate lime or grapefruit zest for a citrusy twist on the lemon flavor.
These customizations ensure that your roast turkey breast is not only delicious but also tailored to your personal preferences or dietary requirements. Don’t be afraid to mix and match ideas to create your own signature version!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Estimated for 6 servings.
Calories
- Turkey Breast: ~200 kcal
- Beef Bacon: ~100 kcal
- Stuffing: ~150 kcal
- Gravy: ~50 kcal
Total Calories: ~500 kcal
Macronutrients
- Protein: ~40–45g
- Primarily from the turkey breast and beef bacon.
- Fat: ~25g
- Includes sunflower oil, fat from beef bacon, and natural fats in turkey.
- Carbohydrates: ~20–25g
- From breadcrumbs, cranberries, and the gravy base.
- Dietary Fiber: ~2–3g (cranberries, leek, and almonds contribute).
Micronutrients
- Vitamin A: Contributed by leeks and onion.
- Vitamin C: From the lemon zest and cranberries.
- Vitamin E: Present in sunflower oil and almonds.
- B Vitamins: Especially B6 and B12, from turkey and bacon.
- Iron: Found in turkey, almonds, and breadcrumbs.
- Magnesium: Provided by almonds and leeks.
- Potassium: Found in turkey and leeks.
- Zinc: Present in turkey and almonds.
- Sodium: Varies based on seasoning and bacon; approximately ~700–800mg (consider using low-sodium bacon and stock if needed).
Adjusting Nutrition
- Lower Calories or Fat:
- Use turkey bacon or skip the bacon entirely.
- Replace sunflower oil with a light cooking spray.
- Boost Fiber:
- Add more vegetables to the stuffing, like carrots or celery.
- Use whole-grain breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
- Reduce Sodium:
- Opt for low-sodium chicken stock and bacon.
Use salt sparingly, relying on herbs and spices for flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare the turkey in advance?
Yes! Assemble the turkey with the stuffing and bacon wrapping the day before. Cover tightly with cling film and refrigerate. Let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting.
2. What if I don’t have beef bacon?
You can use turkey bacon or omit the bacon entirely. Brush the turkey breast with melted butter or olive oil for added moisture.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, or enjoy cold in sandwiches or salads.
4. Can I use a different cut of turkey?
Absolutely! You can use a whole turkey or turkey thighs. Adjust the cooking time based on the size of the cut.
5. How do I keep the turkey moist?
Basting regularly with pan juices and wrapping it in bacon helps retain moisture. Resting the turkey after roasting is crucial to ensure it remains juicy.
This roast turkey breast is the perfect blend of tradition and convenience, making it an excellent choice for a festive gathering. What’s your favorite way to customize this recipe? Let us know!
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