Nothing says festive family gathering quite like a beautifully roasted turkey, and this recipe for Pineapple Roast Turkey adds a delightful tropical twist to a traditional favorite. The combination of succulent juicy turkey and sweet tangy pineapple creates a dish that will be sure to impress your guests this holiday season. Follow along for a step-by-step guide on how to create this flavorful masterpiece in your own kitchen.
**Pineapple Roast Turkey**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons ginger, grated
– 1 teaspoon ground pepper
– 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into chunks
– Salt, to taste
– Olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Preparation:** Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Rinse the turkey well under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan.
2. **Marinade:** In a bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and ground pepper. Set aside a cup of this marinade for basting later. Pour the remaining marinade over the turkey, making sure to coat both the outside and the cavity. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the flavors to meld.
3. **Stuff the Turkey:** Fill the turkey cavity with the pineapple chunks. This will infuse the turkey with a sweet and fruity flavor as it roasts.
4. **Tie the Legs:** Tie the turkey legs together with kitchen twine to help ensure even cooking.
5. **Season and Roast:** Rub the turkey skin with olive oil and season with salt. Place the turkey in the preheated oven and roast, basting with the reserved marinade every 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh, about 3 to 3 1/2 hours.
6. **Rest and Serve:** Once the turkey is cooked through, remove it from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for about 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a moister, more flavorful turkey. Carve and serve with your favorite sides.
7. **Enjoy:** Your Pineapple Roast Turkey is now ready to be enjoyed with family and friends. The juicy and flavorful meat combined with the sweetness of the pineapple will surely be a hit at your holiday table.
Pineapple Roast Turkey is a delicious and unique take on the classic roast turkey that will add a touch of the tropics to your festive celebrations. The sweet and savory flavors of this dish come together to create a memorable meal that is both comforting and exotic. So, gather your loved ones, follow this simple recipe, and savor the joy of cooking and sharing a wonderful meal together.
