What is a Turkey Roast? A Complete Guide to Roasted Turkey

As the holidays approach, many of us look forward to feasting on a succulent roasted turkey But what exactly is a turkey roast? How is it different from simply roasting a whole turkey? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about turkey roasts to help you prepare the perfect centerpiece for your next festive meal

What is a Turkey Roast?

A turkey roast refers to a portion of turkey that is seasoned and cooked in the oven by roasting. While roasting a whole 10-15 pound bird is traditional for holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, a turkey roast offers a smaller, more manageable size for everyday meals.

There are a few common cuts of turkey that work well for roasting:

• Whole turkey breast: The entire breast portion with bones and skin intact, usually 4-8 pounds.

• Boneless turkey breast roast The breast meat rolled and tied into a log shape without bones or skin Weights range from 2-5 pounds

• Turkey tenderloins: The small, tender muscle from the breast. Tenderloins are about 1/2 pound each.

• Whole turkey legs The full legs including the drumstick, thigh, and some back meat Around 3-8 pounds each.

Compared to a full turkey, these smaller turkey roasts offer some advantages:

• Quicker cooking time
• Easier preparation
• Less waste
• Ability to add bold seasoning
• More white meat options

How to Choose a Turkey Roast

When selecting a turkey roast, keep these tips in mind:

• Estimate 1/2 pound of turkey per person. An 8 pound roast feeds roughly 15 guests.

• Fresh or frozen both work well. Check frozen roasts for freezer burn.

• Bone-in roasts have more flavor. Boneless are easier to carve.

• Avoid pre-basted or pre-injected turkey. Choose plain roasts to season yourself.

• Opt for free-range or organic turkey for the highest quality.

• Inspect the netting or mesh around boneless roasts. It should hold the meat securely.

• Compare prices by the pound. Whole or partial roasts can be budget-friendly.

Seasoning and Preparing Turkey Roasts

Proper seasoning and preparation is vital for flavorful, juicy turkey roasts. Follow these tips:

• Thaw frozen roasts 1 day per 4-5 pounds in the fridge.

• Rinse off any packaged liquids and pat the skin dry.

• Loosen the skin from the breast to create pockets for herbs or stuffing.

• Season under the skin with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, herbs, or spice rubs.

• Insert aromatics like lemon, onion, or garlic in the cavity.

• Tie the legs together on a whole turkey for easier handling.

• Brush the skin with oil or butter to help crisping.

• Allow turkey to sit at room temperature 30-60 minutes before roasting.

How to Roast Turkey for Perfect Results

Roasting brings out the savory flavors in turkey. Follow these tips:

• Preheat the oven to 325°F. Use a low temp for even cooking.

• Place turkey on a rack in a roasting pan for air circulation.

• Roast approximately 15-18 minutes per pound until 165°F internal temperature.

• Baste with pan drippings, butter, or broth every 30 minutes if it seems dry.

• Let rest 15-30 minutes before carving so juices absorb back into the meat.

• Carve with a sharp knife. Slice against the grain for tender meat.

• Make gravy from the flavorful pan drippings.

Recipe Ideas for Delicious Turkey Roasts

Plain roasted turkey with just salt and pepper is delicious. But it’s easy to add more flavor with rubs, marinades, and stuffing:

• Herb paste – Blend garlic, herbs, oil, lemon, and pepper into a thick paste to spread under skin.

• Spice rub – Coat with bold spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano.

• Citrus marinade – Soak turkey in orange, lemon, or lime juice, garlic, and herbs.

• Sausage stuffing – Stuff the cavity with cornbread, sausage, celery, and onions.

• Pesto stuffed – Layer pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese under the skin.

• Prosciutto wrapped – Wrap boneless roasts fully in prosciutto ham for built-in basting.

With the right preparation, roasting brings out turkey’s succulent, savory flavors. A turkey roast makes an elegant, impressive entree for holidays, dinner parties, or family dinners any time of year. Experiment with different rubs and roast sizes to find your favorite.

Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Roasts

What’s the difference between a whole turkey and turkey roast?

A whole turkey refers to the entire bird, while a turkey roast is just a portion such as the breast, legs, or tenderloins. Roasts offer smaller sizes perfect for feeding fewer guests.

How long does it take to roast a turkey?

Roasting time depends on size, but estimate 15-18 minutes per pound in a 325°F oven. An 8 pound roast takes about 2 hours to reach 165°Finternal temperature.

Should you brine a turkey roast?

Brining is optional, but recommended. Soaking the meat in a saltwater solution enhances flavor and moisture. Brine 6-12 hours in the fridge.

What’s the best way to get crispy turkey skin?

Starting at a high temp (425°F) for 30 minutes helps crisp the skin. Basting with butter or oil also promotes browning.

Can you freeze leftover turkey roast?

Yes, store tightly wrapped turkey roast in the freezer for 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge before use to prevent food safety issues.

How can I use up turkey leftovers?

Leftover roast turkey is delicious in sandwiches, wraps, soups, turkey tetrazzini, turkey pot pie, turkey chili, turkey noodle soup, turkey casseroles, and turkey enchiladas.

Conclusion

From choosing the perfect roast size to employing the right roasting techniques, preparing a tender, juicy turkey roast may seem daunting for novice cooks. But have no fear – with the guidance above on selecting, prepping, seasoning, and cooking turkey roasts, you’ll turn out a mouthwatering masterpiece. Aromatic, succulent turkey roast makes for an impressive entree for both everyday meals and special occasions.