Better Homes & Gardens November 2023Test Kitchen

smoked Mole-Inspired Turkey  If you have a smoker or a grill and a little extra cooking time, this method turns out an exceptionally tasty bird. “Smoking is superior for turkey because it cooks the thighs first and leaves the breast super juicy and tender, not to mention the smoky flavor that saturates the meat,” says Emily Nienhaus, Test Kitchen culinary specialist. “It’s an easy way to get a lot of flavors.” For this recipe, we concocted a rub using spices typically found in a traditional Mexican mole (a rich chocolate-chili sauce), including cocoa, cinnamon, cumin, and chili powder. If you don’t have a smoker, you can still use the warm spice combo on a roasted turkey.
Standard Image→ No matter the cooking method, fill the cavity with aromatics such as onion, citrus, and fresh herbs. The scented steam will help flavor the turkey from the inside.

Fire It Up Smoker Insight The time it takes to get a smokin’-hot bird depends on the type of smoker you have.

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* Learn how to use your regular grill as a smoker at BHG.com/GrillSmoker
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spatchcock
Mediterranean Turkey
Our spatchcocked (aka butterflied) turkey not only provides a different take on presentation, but this method is also the route to go if you have a tighter cooking window. “Spatchcocking the turkey may seem like a lot of work up front, but it shortens the roasting time and makes carving a breeze,” says Juliana Hale, Test Kitchen senior culinary specialist. A 10- to 12-pound turkey will roast in a little more than an hour. Lemon slices, garlic, and lots of fresh oregano, sage, and thyme tucked all around the bird and slipped under the skin deliver bright Mediterranean flavor.
Standard Image-1696965623 → For spatchcocking, a smaller turkey will more easily fit properly in the pan. Look for 6- to 11- pound Li’l Butterballs in stores this holiday season.

Dividing Rule-3Juliana“If you don’t have a pan large enough to accommodate the whole flattened turkey, you split it between the breasts and place it in two smaller pans. Switch oven racks halfway through roasting time.”
—JULIANA HALE, Test Kitchen senior culinary specialist
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qrTURKEY 101 Want to know the exact defrost time for your turkey or the best carving techniques? Scan the code with your phone camera to find all our turkey basics in one convenient spot.

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