Turkey crown is a popular alternative to a whole turkey for smaller gatherings or for those who prefer to have white meat. A turkey crown consists of the breast meat attached to the bone, making it easier to cook and carve. While it may seem daunting to cook a turkey crown, it is actually quite simple and can be done with just a few easy steps. In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking a turkey crown to perfection.
Step 1: Preparing the Turkey Crown
The first thing you need to do is to remove the turkey crown from the packaging and place it on a large plate. Allow it to come to room temperature for about an hour. This will ensure that the turkey crown cooks evenly and prevent it from being dry.
Next, preheat your oven to 190°C/375°F/gas 5.
Prepare a roasting tin by lining the base with a layer of sliced onions, carrots, and celery. These vegetables will add flavor to the turkey crown and prevent it from sticking to the tin.
Step 2: Seasoning the Turkey Crown
Before seasoning, pat the turkey crown dry with some kitchen paper. This will help the seasoning to stick to the skin better.
Season the turkey crown well with salt and pepper. You can also add some herbs and spices of your choice, such as thyme, rosemary, and paprika. Rub the seasoning all over the turkey crown, including underneath the skin and in any gaps between the crown and the bone.
Step 3: Cooking the Turkey Crown
Place the turkey crown on top of the vegetables in the roasting tin. Drizzle some olive oil over the top of the turkey crown to keep it moist during cooking.
The cooking time for a turkey crown depends on its weight. As a general rule, you should cook the turkey crown for 20 minutes per 450g/1lb, plus an extra 70 minutes. For example, if your turkey crown is 2kg/4.4lb, it should be cooked for approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.
It is important to baste the turkey crown every 30 minutes during cooking. This involves removing the roasting tin from the oven and using a spoon to scoop up the juices from the bottom of the tin and pour them over the turkey crown. This will keep the turkey crown moist and prevent it from drying out.
Step 4: Checking the Temperature
To ensure that the turkey crown is cooked through, you can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey crown should reach a temperature of 75°C/165°F at the thickest part of the meat.
If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can check if the turkey crown is cooked by piercing the thickest part of the meat with a skewer or sharp knife. If the juices run clear, the turkey crown is done. If the juices are pink or red, it needs more time in the oven.
Step 5: Resting the Turkey Crown
Once the turkey crown is cooked, remove it from the oven and cover it loosely with foil. Allow it to rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and make it more tender and juicy.
FAQs
Q: How do I store leftover turkey crown?
A: Before storing leftover turkey crown, make sure it has cooled down to room temperature. You can then wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze leftover turkey crown for up to 2 months. Make sure to thaw it before reheating.
Q: What can I do with leftover turkey crown?
A: Leftover turkey crown can be used in a variety of dishes, such as soups, salads, sandwiches, and stir-fries. You can also use it to make turkey stock for soups and stews.
Q: Can I stuff a turkey crown?
A: It is not recommended to stuff a turkey crown because the stuffing can prevent the turkey crown from cooking evenly and increase the risk of foodborne illness.
Q: Can I cook a turkey crown in a slow cooker?
A: While it is possible to cook a turkey crown in a slow cooker, it is not recommended because slow cookers don’t get hot enough to kill bacteria and ensure that the turkey crown is cooked through. It is safer to cook a turkey crown in the oven.
In conclusion, cooking a turkey crown is a simple and straightforward process that can be done with just a few easy steps. By following the tips and guidelines in this article, you can ensure that your turkey crown is tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Whether you are making it for a holiday dinner or a Sunday roast, a well-cooked turkey crown is sure to impress your family and friends.
