Poultry Perfection: Maple-Glazed Turkey
A joyful, hands-on ritual for body and mind.
Preparing a turkey is more than a meal—it’s a celebration of care, focus, and the simple joy of creating something nourishing. The sweet, amber glaze warms the senses, while the act of basting and tending keeps your hands and mind fully engaged, turning cooking into a mindful holiday ritual.
INGREDIENTS
1 whole turkey (10–12 lbs), thawed
½ cup pure maple syrup
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 orange, quartered
1 onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, smashed
DIRECTIONS:
Prep the turkey: Remove giblets, pat turkey dry, and tuck wings under. Season cavity with salt, pepper, and some fresh herbs. Place orange, onion, and garlic inside.
Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, melted butter, Dijon, thyme, and rosemary.
Roast: Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Place turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a large pan. Brush generously with glaze. Roast approximately 15 minutes per pound, basting every 30 minutes with the remaining glaze, until internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
Rest: Tent turkey loosely with foil and let rest 20–30 minutes before carving to keep it juicy.
Serve: Carve and plate, drizzling any remaining glaze over the slices for extra flavor.
Mindful Moment
As you brush the sweet glaze over the turkey, notice the aroma, the warm hands-on process, and the satisfaction of creating something nourishing. Cooking becomes a form of meditation — a gentle, joyful way to stay present.
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