Great Gobble Guaranteed
“And that has made all the difference!” exasperates Frost, with a remorse that is so much relatable – especially to an over-thinker like me!
And that would be my statement when I come to think about my turkey-cooking shenanigans this year.
Even while fearing the accusation of facetiousness for applying the profound meaning of a dear poem to the making of a turkey, let me go ahead and explain, what has made all the difference this year.
My approach to achieving a great gobble this year is easy and simple to summarize – the turkey, staying at ‘home’ (brine solution) for a good amount of a full day and little more, hit the home run. (no reference to brine here…’home’ used as intended..hmm..or is it?)
Flavor is the name of the game when it comes to brine – a myriad of spices, warm cider, warmer water and cool citrus all mingled and received the now mute once gobbling creature, so as to enable the fulfillment of its purpose.
Un dressed, sans all make up and coatings, the turkey was then modestly covered and slid into a relatively warmer oven for a good amount of time, so as to cook, slowly and steadily, anticipating a change from the inside. This precooking has made a huge difference in achieving the desired doneness with minimal effort. Thanks youtube. Thank you, even more, the Pioneer Woman! That indeed is a pioneering process!
After the initial bake, the pale, yet getting-to-be gorgeous bird was generously massaged with citrus butter.
People try – like really hard – to be fancy – delicately, brushing butter, tenderly using the tips of a silicon pastry brush and ever so gently sliding it on the slippery turkey.
And then they stop trying – going back to their old-selves – savagely, using the only tools you were equipped with when you were born – hands, scooping the fat our by the dollops and rubbing it on that helpless bird, while glancing at the clock, which mercilessly refuses to wait. Life!
The all decked up player now goes back into the box, uncovered this time. A thermometer inserted into the thickest part, assures us to relay the information, ..”I am ready!”
The rest of the players join the party, even as she stands, all triumphant, the epitome of a Thanksgiving table. The turkey.
Family, who have been patiently waiting, to spend the time in idle, yet so indispensable chatter, gather around too.
‘Grace’ prayed, smiles exchanged, eyes communicate the love, while the soul sings thanks, acknowledging the Maker and Provider.
Giving Thanks -it makes all the difference!
