(StatePoint) Whether it’s your first or fiftieth time, the stress of roasting the holiday bird is enough to ruffle anyone’s feathers. Set yourself up for success with two simple rules: stick to the basics and start with great quality meat.
Delicious meat comes from animals raised the way nature intended — no antibiotics or animal by-product in feed. Choose turkeys from farms that have achieved Global Animal Partnership 5-Step Animal Welfare Rating so you know your holiday bird was raised with care.
For the juiciest, most flavorful meat, start with a fresh organic turkey and layer in flavor with a simple brine or herb rub. Try a brine kit, such as one from 365 Everyday Value, and then stuff chopped herbs under the skin before roasting. If you like bronzed, crispy skin, blast your turkey with heat at the beginning or end of cooking, breast side up. Roast until your meat thermometer reads 165 degrees Farenheit.
Once done, let your turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving so juices redistribute. This locks in moisture and makes for smoother carving. More tips are available at wholefoodsmarket.com/turkey and you can reserve your pick of the flock ahead of time at shop.wholefoodsmarket.com.
It’s all about knowing where your turkey came from and the best way to lock in its juices and flavor.