Are you dreaming of a succulent, juicy turkey breast without the hassle of a whole bird? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe, inspired by the culinary genius of Martha Stewart, delivers all the Thanksgiving-worthy flavor of a traditional roast turkey, but in a much more manageable package. Perfect for smaller gatherings, weeknight dinners, or anyone who wants a delicious, healthy meal without the fuss, this easy recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. It's one of those delicious dishes that's surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks. Let's get started on this amazing recipe!
Ingredients:
- One 4-5 pound bone-in turkey breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 small onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy skin. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, thyme, sage, and rosemary. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring it's evenly coated. This simple step elevates the flavor significantly.
Step 2: Roast the Turkey Breast
Place the quartered onion, chopped carrots, and celery in the bottom of a roasting pan. This creates a flavorful bed for the turkey breast and adds moisture to the pan. Set the turkey breast on top of the vegetables. Drizzle the turkey breast with olive oil.
Step 3: Add Broth and Roast
Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. This helps keep the turkey moist during cooking. Roast the turkey breast for approximately 2-2.5 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast registers 165°F (74°C). Basting the turkey every 30 minutes with the pan juices will further enhance the flavor and ensure a juicy result.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the turkey breast from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful turkey breast. Carve the turkey breast against the grain for the most tender slices. Serve immediately and enjoy your perfectly roasted turkey breast!
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Roast:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space around the turkey breast for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure the turkey is cooked to the proper internal temperature.
- Let it rest: This crucial step prevents the turkey from becoming dry.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect blend.
Variations:
- Herb Butter: For extra flavor, try rubbing the turkey breast with herb butter before roasting.
- Citrus Infusion: Add orange or lemon slices to the roasting pan for a zesty twist.
- Stuffing: Create a delicious stuffing and place it inside the turkey cavity (if your turkey breast allows).
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 250-300
- Protein: Around 30-40g
- Fat: Around 10-15g
This Martha Stewart inspired recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals that are both easy and delicious. From quick dinner ideas to impressive holiday feasts, this versatile recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite in your collection of homemade cooking recipes. It's a testament to how simple it can be to create truly exceptional food. Enjoy!