Turkey Crown Recipe: Picture this – a beautifully roasted turkey crown, glistening with a golden hue, filling your kitchen with the aroma of herbs and spices. This delightful dish is perfect for any special occasion, offering tender and juicy meat without the need for a whole turkey. Ideal for smaller gatherings, it’s a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy the traditional taste of turkey without the fuss.
Did you know that a turkey crown is a relatively modern invention, designed to cater to smaller households and those who prefer white meat? The turkey crown became popular in the late 20th century as people sought easier and quicker ways to prepare turkey for festive occasions. By removing the legs and wings, this cut allows for a shorter cooking time and simpler carving, making it an appealing choice for many home cooks.
This roast turkey crown pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with classic roasted potatoes, honey-glazed carrots, and a generous helping of Brussels sprouts. For an added touch, consider a cranberry and orange relish on the side. Garnish the platter with fresh herbs and orange slices to enhance its presentation.
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within three days. If you wish to keep the turkey longer, slice the meat and freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. For best results, separate the meat into portion sizes before freezing to make reheating easier.
To reheat the turkey, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the slices in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the slices in the microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are hot all the way through.
We hope you enjoy making and savouring this roast turkey crown. It’s a delightful way to celebrate special moments with family and friends. We'd love to hear about your experience and any tweaks you made to the recipe. Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes and cooking tips.
Enjoy a tender and juicy Roast Turkey Crown with this easy-to-follow recipe. Infused with a delightful herb butter mixture and enhanced with the bright flavours of fresh oranges, this dish is perfect for any festive occasion. The succulent turkey is topped with crispy pancetta and served with a rich, savoury gravy. Ideal for smaller gatherings, this recipe ensures a delicious meal without the hassle of cooking a whole bird.
Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C fan/gas 5).
In a bowl, mix the softened butter with thyme, rosemary, sage, garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Gently loosen the skin on the turkey crown by pushing your fingers (or a rubber spatula) between the skin and the meat, being careful not to tear it.
Spread the herb butter mixture evenly under the skin and over the turkey breast.
Arrange the orange slices under the skin on top of the herb butter.
Place one orange half under the skin at the neck end of the bird and add any orange trimmings to the neck cavity.
Rub the turkey crown all over with olive oil and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Place the turkey crown in a roasting tray. Lay the bacon or pancetta slices over the top, slightly overlapping to cover the turkey.
Roast in the preheated oven for 60 minutes covered with foil.
Remove the foil, baste the turkey with the juices, and continue to roast for another 25 minutes uncovered.
Baste again and roast for a further 25-35 minutes, until the turkey is cooked through, and the juices run clear when pierced with a skewer.
Transfer the turkey crown to a serving platter and cover with foil. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
Pour the juices from the roasting tray into a jug and allow them to settle. Skim off all but 4 tablespoons of the fat from the top.
Transfer the remaining juices into a saucepan and heat over medium heat until it simmers. Whisk in the flour until smooth, then pour in the port and stock, whisking continuously.
Add Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce, and continue to simmer until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Carve the turkey and serve with the prepared gravy.
Servings 8
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Fiona O'Sullivan is the passionate editor of Great Food Ireland, a popular blog dedicated to celebrating traditional Irish cuisine and culinary heritage. With a rich background in food writing and a deep love for Ireland's gastronomic culture, Fiona brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to her role. She curates authentic recipes, shares culinary stories, and explores the vibrant food scene across Ireland. Fiona's dedication to promoting Irish food traditions has made Great Food Ireland a beloved resource for food enthusiasts around the world.
