Cooking a turkey crown, rather than a whole turkey, has become a popular choice for many, particularly for those with smaller gatherings or who prefer more white meat. A turkey crown is essentially the breast of the bird, still on the bone, but without the legs and wings, making it a more manageable and quicker cooking option. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to achieve a perfectly cooked turkey crown, ensuring it’s the centerpiece of your meal.
Choosing Your Turkey Crown
Before diving into the cooking process, selecting the right turkey crown is crucial. The size of the crown will depend on the number of guests you’re expecting. A good rule of thumb is to allocate about 1 to 1.5 pounds (450g to 675g) per person, considering that a turkey crown has a higher meat-to-bone ratio than a whole turkey.
When purchasing your turkey crown, consider the quality of the bird. Free-range or organic options tend to have better flavor and texture due to the turkey’s natural diet and lifestyle. Ensure the turkey crown is fresh or thoroughly thawed if previously frozen.
Preparation for Perfection
Preparation is key to enhancing the flavor and ensuring a moist and tender turkey crown. Start by removing the turkey from the refrigerator at least an hour before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This step is crucial for even cooking.
Brining for Flavor
Brining is an optional but recommended step, especially if you have the time. A simple brine can be made with water, salt, and a mix of your favorite herbs and spices. Submerge the turkey crown in the brine and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Brining helps to season the meat deeply and retain moisture during cooking.
Seasoning and Stuffing
Pat the turkey dry if you’ve brined it, or simply start with this step if you’re not brining. Rub the skin and under the skin with softened butter or olive oil; this will help crisp the skin. Season generously with salt, pepper, and your chosen herbs—thyme, rosemary, and sage are traditional favorites.
While you can’t stuff a turkey crown in the same way as a whole bird, you can place aromatics or a small stuffing packet underneath it in the roasting pan. Onion halves, garlic cloves, lemon slices, and additional herbs can create a flavorful base that infuses the turkey as it cooks.
Cooking Your Turkey Crown
The key to a perfectly cooked turkey crown is in the oven temperature and timing. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the turkey crown on a rack in a roasting tin, which allows the heat to circulate around the turkey for even cooking.
Roasting to Perfection
Cover the turkey crown loosely with foil to prevent the skin from burning and to retain moisture. Roast the turkey crown for about 20 minutes per pound (450g), plus an additional 20 minutes. For a more accurate guide, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the breast. You’re aiming for 165°F (74°C) for a fully cooked turkey.
Resting is Key
Once the turkey crown reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven. Very importantly, let it rest covered with foil for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and tender turkey when sliced.
Carving and Serving
With your turkey crown beautifully cooked and rested, it’s time to carve. Start by removing any string or butcher’s twine. Using a sharp knife, slice down either side of the breastbone, then continue to slice the breast meat away from the bone in one piece. Once removed, you can slice the breast meat across the grain into even slices.
Serve the turkey slices on a warm platter, garnished with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation. Don’t forget to use the pan juices and aromatics to make a flavorful gravy to accompany your turkey.
Conclusion
Cooking a turkey crown is a fantastic option for those seeking the joys of a traditional turkey dinner without the complexities of preparing a whole bird. By following the steps outlined in this guide, from selection and preparation to cooking and serving, you’ll ensure a delicious, moist, and flavorful turkey crown that’s sure to impress your guests. Remember, the key to perfection lies in the details, so take your time to brine, season, and rest your turkey crown for the best results. Enjoy the culinary journey and the delightful meal that awaits!
