Decadent Buttermilk Grilled Turkey Mastery
Welcome to 'Decadent Buttermilk Turkey Mastery'—your culinary gateway to transforming a traditional turkey dish into an unforgettable gastronomic delight. If you've ever been disappointed by a dry, bland turkey, we have the solution for you: buttermilk! This unique ingredient adds moisture and flavor, ensuring a mouthwatering, tender result that will have your guests raving. In this detailed grilled turkey recipe, we'll take you step-by-step through the process of creating this masterpiece. So, let's put on our aprons and let the magic begin!
Ingredients
- Turkey
- SPG (or salt, pepper, garlic) or Poultry Powder
- Vegetable oil
- half a gallon of water
- 2 quarts Buttermilk
- 1 cup sugar
- half a cup of salt
- 10 cloves of garlic
Instructions
- In a pot add the water, buttermilk, salt, sugar, garlic, and about a tablespoon of your fav seasoning or poultry powder.
- Heat mixture over medium heat stirring often to dissolve the salts and sugars. Set aside to cool.
- Once cooled put your turkey in a sealable ziploc bag or a bucket and dump in all the buttermilk mixture so the turkey is submerged in it. Place in the fridge overnight.
- Take the turkey out of the fridge and out of the mixture and pat dry.
- Coat the turkey in a bit of vegetable oil and then season the turkey with some poultry powder or spg, enough to give it a nice dusting but not too heavy.
- Heat smoker up to 325f and cook for about 3hrs or till internal temp of 157f in the breast and 175f in the thigh.
- Let the turkey rest for 20mins or so before carving.
What to Serve With Grilled Turkey
Here are some side dishes that would pair wonderfully with your grilled turkey:
- Buttermilk Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creaminess of these mashed potatoes complements the smoky flavor of grilled turkey, and the garlic adds a burst of flavor.
- Green Beans: A classic turkey side, green beans can be simply steamed or sautéed with a bit of garlic and lemon for a fresh, vibrant addition to your meal.
- Sweet Potato Casserole: This dish's sweet and savory flavors make it an excellent match for grilled turkey.
- Cranberry Sauce: A traditional accompaniment to turkey, cranberry sauce provides a sweet-tart contrast to the richly flavored meat.
- Roasted Herb Potatoes and Carrots: These hearty vegetables, seasoned with your favorite herbs, offer a delicious and satisfying side dish.
- Mashed Cauliflower: For a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, try creamy mashed cauliflower.
- Quinoa or Rice: Either of these grains can be cooked with chicken broth and mixed with sautéed onions and herbs for a flavorful side dish.
- Roasted Cabbage: Roasting brings out the sweetness in cabbage, making it a unique and tasty side dish.
- Peach and Arugula Salad: This light salad, with its combination of sweet peaches and peppery arugula, provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich turkey.
- Vegetable Tian: This baked dish of layered vegetables is both beautiful and delicious.
Tips for making Grilled Turkey
Here are some tips for grilling a turkey to perfection:
- Choose the Right Size: Turkeys that are about 12-14 pounds are ideal for grilling, as they fit well on most grills and cook more evenly.
- Brine Your Turkey: As you've done with your buttermilk brine, this step is vital. It not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the turkey moist during the grilling process.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: The most reliable way to check if your turkey is done is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the breast and 175°F in the thigh.
- Set Up for Indirect Grilling: Arrange your coals for indirect grilling. This means the turkey will not be directly over the heat source. This helps to prevent the outside from burning before the inside is fully cooked.
- Keep the Lid Closed: Resist the urge to frequently check on the turkey. Keeping the grill closed as much as possible maintains a consistent temperature.
- Let it Rest: After removing the turkey from the grill, let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the bird, resulting in moister meat.
- Safety First: Always remember to wash everything that comes into contact with raw turkey (including your hands) to avoid cross-contamination.
- Monitor Your Grill's Temperature: Aim to maintain a grill temperature of around 325°F to 350°F.
- Have a Plan B: Grilling is often subject to the whims of the weather. Have a backup plan (like your oven) in case you can't grill due to rain or other unfavorable conditions.
Remember, practice makes perfect. Don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't flawless. With each turkey, you'll learn more about how your grill works and how to make adjustments for the best results.
Alternative Ways to Cook Grilled Turkey
Here are some alternative methods for cooking grilled turkey:
- Smoking: Smoking a turkey imparts a deep, rich flavor that can't be achieved with traditional grilling. This method requires a smoker and wood chips for the best results.
- Deep Frying: Deep frying a turkey results in a crispy exterior and moist interior. It's a quicker method than grilling, but it does require special equipment and safety precautions.
- Spatchcocking: This method involves removing the backbone of the turkey and flattening it out before grilling. Spatchcocking allows for even cooking and a quicker cook time.
- Beer Can Turkey: Similar to beer can chicken, this method involves placing the turkey onto a can of beer (or other beverage) and grilling it. The steam from the beer helps to keep the turkey moist while it cooks.
- Braising: While not a method you'd use on the grill, braising involves searing the turkey and then slowly cooking it in a small amount of liquid. This method is great for keeping the turkey moist and tender.
- Rotisserie: If your grill has a rotisserie attachment, this can be a great way to cook a turkey. The constant rotation ensures even cooking and basting in its own juices.
Remember, each method will provide a different flavor profile and texture, so choose based on your personal preference and comfort level with the cooking process.
Outdoor Kitchen Outlet
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