Scot’s Way With Turkey Recipe
Description:
Don’t let the unusual combination of prunes, walnuts, and honey throw you off, because with a “wee nip of good Scotch,” you’ll bring it all together for a delightful Christmas dinner that will surprise and impress your guests!
Ingredients:
- 1 turkey (8-10 lbs)
- 12 prunes
- 1/4 cup black tea
- 2 onions
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp mace
- 1 cup walnuts
- Heather honey (to taste)
- A “wee nip” of good Scotch whiskey
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 1062.3
- Fat: 52.8g
- Saturated Fat: 15.2g
- Cholesterol: 388.5mg
- Sodium: 346.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Sugar: 23g
- Protein: 109.5g
Cooking Times:
| Preparation | Total |
|---|---|
| 30 minutes | 2 hours |
Instructions:
-
Begin by thoroughly washing the turkey, inside and out, using a cloth soaked generously in whiskey. This step not only cleanses the bird but also imparts a unique flavor.
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Cover the turkey and refrigerate it overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
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In a glass jar, combine the prunes with the whiskey and hot tea. Let them soak overnight on the kitchen counter. This will plump up the prunes and make it easier to remove the stones the next day.
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The following day, in a large bowl, combine the onions, ground pork, egg, and mace. Mix until well combined, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
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Remove the stones from the soaked prunes, replacing each with a walnut for a delightful surprise.
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Soften the heather honey by placing it in a bowl of hot water. Dip each stuffed prune in the honey, then add them to the stuffing mixture.
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Pack the stuffing mixture firmly into the cavity of the turkey, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Tie the legs together and wrap the entire turkey in a double layer of heavy-duty foil.
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Pour a quarter cup of whiskey over the turkey before sealing the foil. This will infuse the bird with a rich, smoky flavor as it cooks.
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the foil-wrapped turkey in a roasting pan.
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Roast the turkey for approximately 1 1/2 hours. Then, carefully open the top of the foil package to check on the cooking progress.
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Baste the turkey with the juices collected at the bottom of the pan, which will be beautifully perfumed from the whiskey and honey.
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Drizzle any remaining honey over the turkey, but do not reseal the foil. This will allow the skin to brown and crisp up.
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Continue roasting the turkey for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches a safe level for consumption.
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While the turkey is resting, prepare a delicious gravy using the pan drippings and giblet bouillon.
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Serve your Scotch-infused turkey alongside your favorite holiday sides and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of Christmas dinner.
Recipe Notes:
- This recipe serves 8 to 10 people, making it perfect for a festive gathering.
- For an authentic Scottish touch, consider wrapping the turkey in a heavy linen cloth soaked in whiskey. However, be prepared for a bit more handling difficulty compared to using foil.
