Recipes and Cooking Tips for the Perfect Regenerative Pasture-Raised Turkey Dinner

I will admit that I have not cooked many thanksgiving turkeys, but thankfully in this modern era we can find recipes and tips all over the internet! So, today I did the research for you and put together the top tips and recipes I found! 

When it comes to holiday feasts or special gatherings, there's nothing quite like the centerpiece of a perfectly roasted turkey. And if that turkey is a CJW pasture-raised with regenerative farming practices, you're not only in for a delicious meal but also supporting sustainable agriculture. This below is a guide for you, to take you through the process of preparing a mouthwatering regenerative pasture-raised CJW turkey dinner. I also provide cooking tips and recipes that'll make your meal a memorable one and give you peace of mind that you know what you are feeding your family and friends! 

Ingredients:

1. A regenerative pasture-raised CJW turkey (size of your choice)
2. Olive oil or butter
3. Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
4. Salt and pepper
5. Garlic cloves
6. Onions
7. Carrots
8. Celery
9. Chicken or turkey broth
10. Your favorite stuffing
11. Root vegetables (for a side dish)

Cooking Tips:

1. Thawing: Ensure your turkey is fully thawed. Place it in the refrigerator for 24 hours for every 5 pounds of weight.

2. Preparation: Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey. Rinse the bird, pat it dry, and let it sit at room temperature for about 1 hour before cooking.

3. Seasoning: Rub the turkey with olive oil or butter, then season generously with salt and pepper. Tuck fresh herbs and garlic cloves into the cavity for added flavor.

4. Trussing: Truss the turkey to help it cook evenly. Use kitchen twine to tie the legs together.

5. Roasting: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large pan. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.

6. Basting: Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with chicken or turkey broth to keep it moist and flavorful.

7. Cooking Time: Estimate about 15 minutes of cooking time per pound. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C).

8. Resting: Allow the turkey to rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute for a juicy bird.

Recipes:

1. Classic Herb-Roasted Turkey: After seasoning with salt and pepper, rub the turkey with a mixture of chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, and garlic. Roast until golden brown.

2. Crispy Skin Turkey: Brush the turkey with melted butter and salt for extra crispy skin.

3. Citrus-Glazed Turkey: Baste with a glaze made from orange juice, honey, and a touch of cayenne for a sweet and spicy twist.

4. Stuffed Turkey: Fill the cavity with your favorite stuffing. Ensure the stuffing reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.

5. Roasted Root Vegetables: Toss root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast them alongside the turkey for a delicious side dish.

Cooking a regenerative pasture-raised CJW turkey dinner is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a way to support sustainable agriculture. By following these tips and trying these recipes, you can savor the flavors of sustainability and enjoy a memorable meal with loved ones!