Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Crown Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Crown is an incredibly delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines succulent turkey meat with flavorful seasonings, making it a perfect centerpiece for any festive occasion. It’s not just tasty but also ensures a stress-free holiday dinner with minimal prep time, all while keeping the turkey juicy and tender. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or a small celebration, this recipe is sure to impress your guests!

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Crown

A Turkey Crown is a boneless cut of turkey that includes the breast meat but no legs or wings. It is typically chosen for roasting because it cooks more evenly and remains moist and tender.

In Jamie Oliver’s version, the turkey crown is seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, making it a standout dish for any special meal, particularly during the holiday season. This particular recipe is well-loved because of how it’s seasoned, stuffed with flavors, and roasted to perfection for a golden, crispy skin with juicy meat inside.

Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Crown Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To prepare Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Crown, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 turkey crown (around 2-3 kg, depending on your guests)
• Olive oil or butter (for basting)
• Fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage (for a fragrant herb seasoning)
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper (for seasoning)
• Zest of one lemon (adds a refreshing citrus flavor)
• 2-3 cloves of garlic (minced or whole, depending on your preference)
• Optional: Stuffing (bread-based or sausage-based, if you wish to stuff the turkey crown)
• 1 onion (cut in half, for aromatics)
• A splash of white wine or chicken stock (for basting or roasting liquid)

Equipment Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Crown, the following kitchen equipment will be helpful:

• Roasting tray or dish (big enough to fit the turkey crown comfortably)
• Roasting rack (optional, but helps to keep the turkey elevated for even roasting)
• Sharp knife (for trimming and carving)
• Meat thermometer (to check the internal temperature for perfect doneness)
• Basting brush or spoon (to keep the turkey moist by basting with its own juices or stock)
• Aluminum foil (for covering the turkey if it starts to brown too quickly)
• Tongs or carving fork (for serving and handling the turkey)

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Crown?

Making Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Crown is surprisingly simple!

Follow these steps to create a mouth-watering dish that will be the star of the table:

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F), which is an ideal temperature for roasting a turkey crown.
2. Prepare the turkey: Place the turkey crown on a roasting tray. If you’re using stuffing, now is the time to fill the cavity (but be careful not to overstuff). Season the skin generously with olive oil or butter, and sprinkle with a good amount of salt and pepper.
3. Add herbs and aromatics: Sprinkle fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage over the turkey. Rub them into the skin for more intense flavor. Place garlic cloves and lemon zest inside the turkey, and position the onion halves around the base for an aromatic roasting experience.
4. Roast the turkey: Put the turkey crown into the preheated oven. Roast for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours (depending on the size of the crown) until the skin is golden and crispy, and the meat is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F) when checked with a meat thermometer.
5. Basting: Every 30 minutes, baste the turkey with its own juices or a splash of white wine or stock. This will help keep the meat moist and enhance the flavor.
6. Rest the meat: Once the turkey is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and juicy result.
7. Carve and serve: After resting, carve the turkey into slices, serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Dry Brine Option: For even more flavor, try dry brining the turkey crown a day before roasting. Simply rub the turkey with a mixture of salt, herbs, and citrus zest and let it rest uncovered in the fridge overnight. This will help create an even crispier skin.
• Basting Alternatives: If you don’t have white wine, use a combination of chicken stock and a little bit of butter. It will still give you the rich flavor you’re looking for without overpowering the turkey’s natural taste.
• Oven Temperature: If your turkey crown is browning too quickly, tent it with some aluminum foil to prevent it from burning while it continues cooking through.
• Stuffing Variations: If you’re stuffing the crown, avoid overstuffing to prevent uneven cooking. Also, make sure the stuffing is fully cooked before serving.
• Resting Time: Resting the turkey is crucial for retaining moisture. Don’t skip this step, as it will make the turkey much juicier when served.

Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Crown is a delightful and straightforward recipe that transforms your holiday or special occasion into an unforgettable dining experience. With its tender meat, crispy skin, and flavorful seasoning, this turkey crown is bound to become a family favorite.

By following the simple steps and expert tips, you can ensure that your turkey will be both delicious and impressive, leaving your guests asking for seconds. Enjoy your festive feast with this fabulous, easy-to-make dish!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Crown

Jamie Oliver’s turkey crown is a fantastic choice for a succulent, flavorful holiday meal. Its versatility means you can play around with different ingredients and cooking techniques to make it uniquely your own. Below are a few easy recipe variations to inspire you:

1. Herb And Garlic Butter Turkey Crown

One of the simplest yet most delicious variations is to rub the turkey crown with a rich herb and garlic butter. Blend softened butter with minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Rub this mixture under the skin of the turkey, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Roasting the turkey this way results in incredibly tender meat with a crispy skin, flavored deeply by the garlic and herbs.

2. Maple And Mustard Glaze

For a sweet and tangy twist, create a glaze by mixing maple syrup, Dijon mustard, a touch of apple cider vinegar, and some soy sauce. Brush this over the turkey crown about 20 minutes before it’s done cooking to caramelize the glaze. The syrup gives it a lovely shine while the mustard adds a zesty balance, making every bite irresistible.

3. Citrus And Spice Rub

Give your turkey crown a refreshing, aromatic flavor with a citrus-spice rub. Combine the zest and juice of oranges, lemons, and limes with ground cumin, coriander, paprika, and chili powder.

Rub this mixture all over the turkey crown and let it marinate for at least an hour. The citrus gives it a fresh note, while the spices add warmth, perfect for a holiday dinner that feels both festive and bright.

4. Bacon-Wrapped Turkey Crown

If you’re looking for something a little indulgent, wrap the turkey crown with bacon. Lay the strips of bacon on top of the turkey before roasting, ensuring they cover the meat entirely.

As the turkey cooks, the bacon crisps up, and the rendered fat helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful. Plus, the smoky aroma from the bacon infuses the turkey with an irresistible savory depth.

5. Pine Nut And Spinach Stuffing

For an added layer of flavor, stuff the turkey crown with a mixture of sautéed spinach, pine nuts, and breadcrumbs. The pine nuts bring a lovely crunch, while the spinach gives the stuffing a slight bitterness that complements the turkey’s richness. This stuffing variation adds a touch of greenery and texture, making it an excellent choice for a holiday feast.

These variations are simple to prepare but will elevate Jamie Oliver’s turkey crown into something special. Whether you prefer a burst of citrus, the richness of bacon, or the aromatic herbs, these easy twists will delight your guests.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

After you’ve enjoyed your turkey crown, you’re bound to have some leftovers. Proper storage will ensure that you can savor the turkey for days to come while maintaining its freshness and flavor. Here’s how to store your turkey crown leftovers correctly:

1. Cool The Turkey Quickly

To prevent bacteria from growing, it’s important to cool your turkey crown as quickly as possible. Once your turkey has finished cooking, allow it to rest for about 20 minutes at room temperature before refrigerating. However, make sure that you refrigerate the leftovers within two hours of cooking to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.

2. Separate The Meat From The Bones

While you can store the turkey crown with the bones still in, it’s best to remove the meat from the bones. This helps the meat cool faster and makes it easier to use in dishes like sandwiches, soups, or salads. Store the meat in airtight containers, and place the bones in a separate container if you plan to make stock.

3. Store In Airtight Containers

After removing the turkey meat, place it in airtight containers to maintain moisture and prevent the meat from drying out. You can also wrap the meat in plastic wrap before placing it in a container. Make sure the containers are sealed properly to avoid contamination and keep the turkey tasting fresh.

4. Refrigerate Or Freeze

Turkey leftovers can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. If you want to store them for a longer period, consider freezing the turkey meat.

Turkey can be frozen for up to 2-6 months. For freezing, portion the turkey into smaller amounts, making it easier to thaw only what you need later.

5. Use Leftovers In New Dishes

Leftover turkey can be repurposed into a variety of new meals. Use it in soups, stews, sandwiches, or salads.

The meat can also be combined with other leftover vegetables to make a hearty casserole or stir-fry. The possibilities are endless, ensuring your turkey crown provides more delicious meals.

By following these storage tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your turkey crown leftovers safely and make the most out of every bite.

What Goes Well With Turkey Crown?

When serving a turkey crown, you want to create a well-rounded meal with a variety of side dishes that complement the savory flavor of the turkey. Here are some ideas for sides that go wonderfully with a turkey crown:

1. Roast Potatoes

A classic pairing, crispy roast potatoes are always a hit with turkey. Their golden, crunchy exterior and fluffy interior create the perfect contrast to the tender turkey. You can enhance them with herbs like rosemary or garlic for an extra layer of flavor.

2. Brussels Sprouts

Roasted or sautéed Brussels sprouts add a bit of bitterness that cuts through the richness of the turkey. Try roasting them with bacon or balsamic vinegar for a tangy touch. Their slight nuttiness balances the turkey’s flavor perfectly.

3. Cranberry Sauce

The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the savory turkey. Whether you go for a traditional sauce or spice it up with orange zest and cinnamon, the sweet-tart combination is always a winner on the plate.

4. Stuffing

Whether you opt for a simple sage stuffing or something more elaborate with chestnuts or mushrooms, stuffing is a must-have with turkey. It absorbs the turkey’s juices and adds texture and flavor. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover bread.

5. Gravy

No turkey meal is complete without a rich, flavorful gravy. A turkey-based gravy will enhance the flavor of the meat, and it’s great for drizzling over your mashed potatoes, stuffing, and other sides.

6. Sweet Potatoes

The natural sweetness of roasted or mashed sweet potatoes complements turkey perfectly. You can add a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even maple syrup to elevate the sweetness and balance the savory meat.

7. Green Beans Almondine

Crisp-tender green beans tossed with slivered almonds and a touch of lemon juice create a lovely, light side that works beautifully with turkey. The slight crunch from the almonds and the freshness from the lemon add a great textural contrast.

These sides not only enhance the flavor of the turkey crown but also create a festive and balanced meal that your guests will love.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s turkey crown offers a delicious and versatile centerpiece for any meal. By experimenting with different marinades, glazes, and stuffings, you can tailor it to your taste preferences and make it the star of your holiday feast. Whether you prefer a savory, herby turkey or one with a bit of sweetness, the options are endless.

Storing your leftovers properly ensures you can continue enjoying the turkey long after the meal, and pairing it with complementary sides adds variety and balance to the meal. From classic roast potatoes to tangy cranberry sauce, these sides elevate the entire dining experience.

With a bit of creativity and planning, your turkey crown will not only be a hit during the main meal but will also inspire countless delicious dishes from your leftovers. Enjoy!

FAQs

What Is A Turkey Crown?

A turkey crown is the breast of the turkey, with the wings and legs removed, leaving just the meaty breast portion. It’s a popular cut for smaller gatherings or when you want to serve turkey without dealing with the entire bird.

How Do I Cook Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Crown Recipe?

Jamie Oliver’s turkey crown recipe involves roasting the turkey breast with a simple yet flavorful herb butter. You coat the crown with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a mix of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, then roast it in the oven at around 180°C (350°F) for about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the size of the turkey crown.

How Long Does Jamie Oliver Recommend Cooking A Turkey Crown?

For Jamie Oliver’s turkey crown recipe, you should cook it for 20 minutes per 500g, plus an extra 20 minutes. For example, a 2kg turkey crown should roast for about 1.5 to 2 hours, but make sure to check the internal temperature, which should reach 75°C (165°F).

Can I Use Frozen Turkey Crown For Jamie Oliver’s Recipe?

Yes, you can use a frozen turkey crown for Jamie Oliver’s recipe, but it needs to be thoroughly defrosted before cooking. Ensure that the turkey is completely thawed to ensure even cooking, and follow the same cooking times as you would for a fresh turkey crown.

What Type Of Herbs Does Jamie Oliver Use For His Turkey Crown Recipe?

Jamie Oliver typically uses a mix of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage for his turkey crown recipe. These herbs are combined with olive oil and butter to create a fragrant, flavorful coating that helps to infuse the meat with a delicious aroma as it roasts.

Do I Need To Cover The Turkey Crown With Foil While Roasting?

Jamie Oliver recommends not covering the turkey crown with foil during roasting. This helps the skin become golden and crispy. However, if the turkey starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil for the last part of cooking to prevent burning.

What Should I Do If The Turkey Crown Gets Too Brown On Top?

If your turkey crown starts to get too brown on top before it is fully cooked, cover it loosely with a sheet of aluminum foil. This will prevent the skin from over-browning while still allowing the meat to cook through.

What Should I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Crown?

Jamie Oliver’s turkey crown pairs wonderfully with classic side dishes such as roasted potatoes, cranberry sauce, gravy, Brussels sprouts, and stuffing. You can also try serving it with seasonal vegetables like carrots or parsnips for a balanced, festive meal.

How Do I Know When The Turkey Crown Is Fully Cooked?

The best way to check if your turkey crown is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat; it should read 75°C (165°F). If you don’t have a thermometer, make a small cut in the thickest part of the meat-if the juices run clear, it’s done.

Can I Make The Herb Butter In Advance For Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Crown?

Yes, you can prepare the herb butter ahead of time. Simply mix together softened butter, olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper, then refrigerate the mixture until you’re ready to use it. This allows the flavors to meld and makes preparing the turkey even easier on the day of cooking.