To start, you will need a whole turkey, around 12-15 pounds. Make sure it is thawed and cleaned properly before you begin cooking. Preheat your oven to 325°F and prepare a large roasting pan.
For the herb and orange stuffing, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup celery, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
– 2 oranges, zested and juiced
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup toasted almonds, chopped
– 1 loaf of bread, cut into small cubes
– Salt and pepper to taste
In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add the celery, thyme, rosemary, and sage and cook for a few more minutes until the vegetables are soft. Remove from heat and stir in the orange zest, juice, broth, almonds, and bread cubes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Stuff the turkey with the herb and orange stuffing, and truss the bird with kitchen twine. Place it in the roasting pan breast-side up, and brush it with melted butter or olive oil. Cover the turkey with foil and roast for an hour.
After an hour, remove the foil and baste the turkey with the pan drippings. Continue roasting for another 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F. Baste the turkey every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the turkey from the oven and sprinkle it with sliced almonds. Return it to the oven for the remaining time or until the almonds are toasted and golden brown.
Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Serve it with the remaining pan drippings and any extra stuffing on the side.
This turkey with orange, herbs, and almonds is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. The orange adds a citrusy sweetness that balances out the herbal flavors, while the almonds bring a delightful crunch and nuttiness to the dish. It is a perfect dish for any occasion, and your guests will be sure to ask for seconds.