Smoked Turkey Recipe

Unearth the magic of smoky flavors with the 'Smoky Delight Turkey Recipe'. This recipe transforms the humble turkey into a culinary masterpiece using a selection of herbs and a hint of BBQ rub, all slow-cooked in a smoker to infuse a deep, smoky flavor.

Photos of Smoked Turkey Recipe

The primary ingredients of this recipe are quite common, with the exception of the BBQ rub and the apple wood for the smoker. BBQ rub can be found in the spice section of most supermarkets, and you can choose one according to your preferred flavor profile. Apple wood chips, used for smoking, can be found in the BBQ section of larger supermarkets or online. They impart a unique, sweet-smoky flavor to the turkey.

Ingredients for the Smoky Delight Turkey

Turkey brine: A solution of salt, water, sugar and various other seasonings. This is used to marinate the turkey, helping to keep it moist and flavorful during the long smoking process.

Whole turkey: The star of this recipe. Select a fresh, high-quality bird for the best results.

BBQ rub: A blend of spices that adds depth and complexity to the smoky flavor of the turkey.

Onion: Adds aromatic flavor to the cavity of the turkey during smoking.

Lemon: Adds a hint of citrus, balancing the deep, smoky flavors.

Fresh herbs: Used to stuff the turkey and for garnish. Common choices include rosemary, thyme, and sage.

Chicken broth: Used to baste the turkey during smoking, preventing it from drying out.

Cooking spray: To prevent the turkey from sticking to the roasting pan.

One reader, Gabriell Merrill says:

This smoky delight turkey recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are out of this world, and the meat is incredibly juicy and tender. The combination of the bbq rub and apple wood smoke creates a mouthwatering aroma that will have everyone's taste buds dancing. It's a must-try for any turkey lover!

Gabriell Merrill

Techniques Required for Smoky Delight Turkey Recipe

How to prepare turkey brine: To prepare the turkey brine, combine water, salt, sugar, and any desired herbs or spices in a large pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then let it cool completely before submerging the turkey in the brine.

How to tie turkey legs: After stuffing the turkey, use kitchen twine to tie the legs together to help the turkey cook evenly and maintain its shape during the smoking process.

How to baste the turkey: Use a basting brush or spoon to drizzle the chicken broth over the turkey every 30 to 45 minutes during the smoking process to keep the meat moist and flavorful.

How to rest the turkey: After cooking, allow the turkey to rest for 10 to 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful turkey.

How To Make Smoked Turkey

Serve your bird differently this holiday season with this smoked turkey recipe. Flavored in a spice rub and full of fresh herbs, this dish is a sure hit.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 6 hours

Total: 6 hours 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1recipeturkey brineoptional
12lbwhole turkeygiblets and neck removed
½cupBBQ rub
1onionquartered
1lemonquartered
4sprigsfresh herbssuch as thyme, rosemary or parsley
3cupschicken broth
fresh herbsfor garnish
cooking spray

Instructions

Preheat the smoker to 250 degrees F. Load the smoker with apple wood.
Coat a large disposable aluminum pan with cooking spray. Place the turkey in the pan and tuck the wings under the body.
Stuff the cavity of the turkey with the onion, lemon and herbs, then use kitchen twine to tie the legs together.
Sprinkle the BBQ rub all over the surface of the turkey.
Place the turkey in the smoker. Cook for 6 to 7 hours, basting with chicken broth every 30 to 45 minutes, until a thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165 degrees F. Refill the wood chips as needed.
If the turkey starts to get too dark, cover it with foil.
Let the turkey rest for 10 to 15 minutes then transfer to a serving plate. Garnish with herbs if desired, then serve.

Recipe Notes

1. If brining turkey, the chicken broth basting part can be skipped.

Nutrition

Calories: 1377.30kcal
Fat: 60.04g
Saturated Fat: 13.58g
Trans Fat: 0.54g
Monounsaturated Fat: 22.68g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 15.76g
Carbohydrates: 7.95g
Fiber: 0.64g
Sugar: 2.20g
Protein: 190.36g
Cholesterol: 628.51mg
Sodium: 1074.27mg
Calcium: 114.71mg
Potassium: 2088.89mg
Iron: 8.27mg
Vitamin A: 189.85µg
Vitamin C: 16.48mg

Helpful Technique for Smoky Delight Turkey Recipe

To ensure that your turkey stays moist and flavorful, it's important to baste it regularly with chicken broth. This not only keeps the meat from drying out but also adds an extra layer of flavor. Additionally, using a bbq rub on the outside of the turkey can help to create a delicious, smoky crust. Remember to refill the wood chips in your smoker as needed to maintain the smoky flavor throughout the cooking process. Lastly, allowing the turkey to rest before carving is crucial as it lets the juices redistribute throughout the bird, resulting in a moist and tender turkey.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Turkey Recipe

Plan ahead: Prep ingredients and equipment before starting to cook to streamline the process.

Multitask: Look for opportunities to cook multiple components simultaneously to save time.

Use pre-made ingredients: Utilize store-bought items like pre-made dough or pre-cut vegetables to cut down on prep time.

Clean as you go: Wash dishes and utensils as you cook to minimize cleanup time at the end.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to easily find what you need while cooking.

Invest in quality tools: Quality knives and kitchen gadgets can make prep work more efficient.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes that can waste time and ingredients.

Minimize distractions: Focus on the cooking process to work more efficiently and avoid errors.

Substitute Ingredients For Smoked Turkey Recipe

turkey brine - Substitute with apple cider brine: Apple cider brine will add a slightly sweet and tangy flavor to the turkey, similar to the smoky delight recipe.
bbq rub - Substitute with smoked paprika and brown sugar mix: This combination will provide a smoky and sweet flavor to the turkey, enhancing the smoky delight profile.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a subtle sweetness to the dish.
lemon - Substitute with orange: Oranges can provide a similar citrusy brightness to the dish, complementing the smoky flavors.
fresh herbs - Substitute with dried herbs: Dried herbs can be used in place of fresh ones, just use a smaller quantity as they are more concentrated in flavor.
cooking spray - Substitute with olive oil spray: Olive oil spray will add a light coating and flavor to the turkey, enhancing the overall taste.

Presenting Your Smoky Delight Turkey Dish

Elevate the plating: Arrange the turkey slices in a circular pattern on the plate, ensuring each slice is neatly stacked on top of the other. This creates a visually appealing presentation that showcases the smoky flavor of the turkey.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Introduce a pop of color to the plate by adding a small side of roasted vegetables or a colorful salad. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, smoky flavors of the turkey.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley or thyme over the turkey slices to add a touch of freshness and elevate the overall presentation. The vibrant green hues of the herbs create a visually stunning contrast against the golden-brown turkey.
Utilize elegant serving platters: Opt for sophisticated, high-quality serving platters that complement the rustic charm of the smoky turkey. Choose platters with subtle designs or earthy tones to enhance the overall visual impact.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Drizzle a small amount of savory gravy around the turkey slices in an artistic manner, adding a touch of elegance to the presentation. The carefully crafted drizzles create an inviting visual appeal and showcase the attention to detail.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Arrange the accompanying side dishes in a symmetrical manner around the turkey, creating a sense of balance and harmony on the plate. This meticulous arrangement adds a professional touch to the presentation.
Highlight the smoky aroma: Just before serving, unveil the smoky turkey at the table to allow the tantalizing aroma to captivate the senses of the diners. This theatrical presentation enhances the overall dining experience and creates a memorable moment for the guests.

Essential Tools for Making Smoky Turkey

Smoker: A device used for smoking food, typically with wood chips to impart a smoky flavor.
Disposable aluminum pan: A convenient and disposable option for roasting and cooking food, often used for easy cleanup.
Kitchen twine: Used for trussing or tying up poultry or meat to help it cook evenly and maintain its shape.
Thermometer: An essential tool for checking the internal temperature of the turkey to ensure it is fully cooked.
Cooking spray: Used to prevent food from sticking to pans and surfaces during cooking.
Wood chips: Used in the smoker to create smoke and infuse the turkey with a smoky flavor.
Serving plate: A dish or platter used for presenting and serving the cooked turkey.
Foil: Used to cover the turkey if it starts to get too dark during the smoking process.

Storing and Freezing Your Smoky Delight Turkey

Let the smoked turkey cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the meat from becoming soggy and ensure that it retains its delicious flavor and texture.
Wrap the cooled turkey tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help to prevent freezer burn and keep the meat fresh for longer.
If you plan to store the turkey in the refrigerator, place it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. It will keep for up to 4 days in the fridge.
To freeze the smoked turkey, place the wrapped meat in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of when the turkey was frozen.
When stored properly in the freezer, smoked turkey will keep for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen smoked turkey, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw slowly overnight. Never thaw turkey at room temperature, as this can lead to bacterial growth and spoilage.
Once thawed, use the turkey within 2 days for best quality and flavor.
To reheat smoked turkey, place it in a baking dish with a small amount of chicken broth or water, cover with foil, and bake at 325°F until heated through (about 20-30 minutes). Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat as this can dry out the meat.

How To Reheat Leftover Smoky Delight Turkey

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover turkey in a baking dish and add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the turkey is heated through.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the turkey slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes per slice, or until the turkey is warm.
If you have a lot of leftover turkey, consider making a delicious turkey sandwich. Toast some bread, add a layer of cranberry sauce, followed by the reheated turkey, and top it off with some stuffing for a tasty and satisfying meal.
Another great way to reheat leftover turkey is by making a comforting turkey soup. Simmer the turkey in a pot with some vegetables, broth, and your favorite herbs and spices. This method not only reheats the turkey but also infuses it with additional flavors.
For a crispy exterior, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of butter or oil. Place the turkey slices in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and heated through.

Interesting Fact About Smoky Delight Turkey

The turkey's smoky flavor comes from the apple wood used in the smoker, which infuses the meat with a rich and distinctive taste.

Is Making Smoky Turkey at Home Cost-Effective?

This smoky delight turkey recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredient, turkey, is affordable and can feed a family of four. The additional ingredients, such as onion, lemon, and herbs, are also budget-friendly. The use of a smoker may require an initial investment, but it can be used for various other recipes. Overall, this recipe is a great option for a cost-effective and delicious meal. I would rate this recipe an 8/10 for its affordability and flavor. The approximate cost for a household of four people would be around $25-$30.

Is This Smoky Turkey Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This smoky delight turkey recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, turkey is a lean protein source that provides essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. The use of fresh herbs and lemon adds flavor without relying on excessive salt or unhealthy fats. However, the recipe also includes some less healthy elements. The BBQ rub likely contains added sugars and sodium, which can contribute to health issues when consumed in excess. Additionally, the long cooking time and smoking process can lead to the formation of harmful compounds like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heterocyclic amines (HCAs), which have been linked to cancer risk.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of BBQ rub used or make your own rub with less sugar and salt
Use a low-sodium chicken broth to baste the turkey, or simply use water or unsalted butter
Experiment with different wood chips like cherry or maple, which may produce fewer harmful compounds compared to apple wood
Serve the turkey with a variety of colorful, nutrient-dense side dishes like roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, or a fresh fruit salsa to balance out the meal and add more vitamins, minerals, and fiber

Editor's Opinion on the Smoky Delight Turkey Recipe

This smoky delight turkey recipe is a mouthwatering masterpiece that promises to impress. The combination of the turkey brine, BBQ rub, and apple wood smoke infuses the meat with irresistible flavor. The use of onion, lemon, and fresh herbs adds depth to the turkey's taste, while basting with chicken broth ensures a juicy and succulent result. The cooking process is carefully detailed, resulting in a perfectly cooked turkey with a beautiful smoky exterior. This recipe is a surefire way to elevate any holiday feast or special occasion.

Enhance Your Smoked Turkey Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, the perfect accompaniment to the smoky delight turkey.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed in a sweet and sticky honey glaze, adding a pop of color and sweetness to your plate.

Cranberry Orange Quinoa Salad: A refreshing and tangy quinoa salad with bursts of cranberry and citrus flavors, providing a light and healthy side to balance out the rich turkey dish.

Similar Recipes to Smoky Delight Turkey

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is packed with tender chunks of beef, carrots, and potatoes in a rich and flavorful broth. It's the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.

Citrus Grilled Salmon: This zesty grilled salmon is marinated in a tangy citrus sauce and then cooked to perfection on the grill. It's a light and refreshing dish that's perfect for a summer barbecue.

Mango Coconut Popsicles: These creamy and refreshing popsicles are made with fresh mango and coconut milk. They're a delicious and healthy treat for a hot summer day.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Smoky Delight Turkey

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal. Filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs, they are sure to impress your guests.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Indulge in the crispy, crunchy goodness of these coconut shrimp. The sweet and savory flavor of the coconut coating pairs perfectly with the tender, juicy shrimp inside. Serve with a tangy dipping sauce for a delightful appetizer experience.

Desserts:

Decadent Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Velvety Creme Brulee: Savor the delicate custard base with a crisp caramelized sugar topping of this classic French dessert. The contrast between the creamy custard and the crunchy sugar layer creates a symphony of flavors and textures in every spoonful.

Why trust this Smoked Turkey Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a succulent and flavorful turkey, thanks to the use of a homemade turkey brine and a carefully selected bbq rub. The infusion of onion, lemon, and fresh herbs in the cavity enhances the aroma and taste. Basting with chicken broth ensures moistness, while the slow smoking process with apple wood imparts a rich, smoky flavor. The meticulous attention to detail, including temperature control and basting intervals, ensures a perfectly cooked turkey. This recipe is a testament to our commitment to delivering exceptional smoky delight turkey that users can trust.

Share your thoughts on this delicious Smoked Turkey Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

What is the purpose of brining the turkey?

Brining the turkey helps to infuse it with flavor and moisture, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful end product.

Can I use a different type of wood for smoking the turkey?

Absolutely! While apple wood is recommended in the recipe, you can use other types of wood such as hickory or cherry to impart different flavors to the turkey.

How can I tell if the turkey is done cooking in the smoker?

You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. Once it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part of the thigh, it's ready to be removed from the smoker.

What can I do if I don't have a smoker?

If you don't have a smoker, you can still achieve a similar flavor by using a grill set up for indirect heat and adding wood chips for smoke. Just monitor the temperature and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I prepare the turkey ahead of time?

Yes, you can brine the turkey ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to allow enough time for the turkey to come to room temperature before smoking it.