Ah, the smell of roasted turkey wafting through the house is like a warm hug from the inside out! My favorite way to prepare turkey is with a delightful twist on the classic: Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast. There’s just something about that glossy, sweet-tart cranberry glaze that adds a festive flair to an ordinary turkey breast. I first tried this recipe during a chilly autumn gathering with friends, and let’s just say it stole the show! We sat around the table, laughing and reminiscing while savoring each juicy bite. Trust me, you’ll want to whip this up not just for holiday feasts but for any occasion worth celebrating!
What’s more, this recipe is easy to prepare and can impress even the most discerning dinner guests. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this cranberry-covered wonder that’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire!
What’s in Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast?
- Boneless turkey breast: Aim for a size between 1.5 to 2 kg. I find that keeping it boneless makes for easier slicing later on, plus it cooks more evenly.
- Cranberries: Fresh or frozen; I typically opt for fresh when available since they pack a nice flavor punch!
- Sugar: This will balance out the tartness of the cranberries. I usually stick to regular granulated sugar, but feel free to experiment with alternatives like maple syrup.
- Water: To help create that luscious glaze with the cranberries.
- Apple cider vinegar: Just a tablespoon adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the glaze—trust me, it makes a difference!
- Ground cinnamon: This warming spice gives your turkey a hint of sweetness and spice that complements the tart cranberries beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning the turkey, ensuring our bird isn’t bland!
- Olive oil: A drizzling of this helps the seasonings stick to the turkey breast.
- Fresh rosemary or thyme: Optional but recommended for garnish! It adds an aromatic element that takes this dish to new heights.
Is Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast Good for You?
Absolutely! This recipe is a lean protein powerhouse thanks to the turkey breast, which is low in fat and high in protein, making it a fab choice for health-conscious eaters. Cranberries are loaded with antioxidants and vitamin C, promoting overall health. However, be mindful of the sugar content from the sugar in the glaze—while delicious, it can kick up the calorie count a bit. To make it a healthier dish, try reducing the sugar or using a natural sweetener. Pair it with green beans or a simple salad, and you’ll have yourself a well-rounded meal!
Ingredients List
- 1 boneless turkey breast (about 1.5 to 2 kg)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
How to Make Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast?
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). We want it nice and hot for that perfect roast!
- Prepare the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, apple cider vinegar, and ground cinnamon. Bring this mixture to a boil on medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries pop and the mixture thickens, stirring occasionally.
- Season the turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Rub it all over with olive oil, followed by salt and black pepper.
- Roast the turkey: Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and brush it generously with the cranberry glaze, saving some for later. Roast in the oven for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
- Baste: Every 20 minutes, baste your turkey with more of that gorgeous glaze to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Rest and slice: Once cooked, take the turkey out of the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This step is crucial to keep the juices locked in!
- Serve: Arrange the slices on a platter and drizzle with the remaining glaze. Pop some fresh rosemary or thyme on top for that lovely finishing touch.
Tips for the Ultimate Cranberry Glazed Turkey
- Feel free to make extra cranberry glaze! It’s fabulous as a condiment on sandwiches or even a topping for cream cheese on crackers.
- Don’t sweat it if your turkey doesn’t look perfect! A little rustic charm is always welcome at the table.
- If you’re up for it, you can add some chopped onions and garlic to the roasting pan for extra flavor and a lovely savory aroma.
Trust me when I say, this Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast is sure to wow your friends and family! It’s a delightful dish for holiday gatherings or a comforting Sunday dinner. If you give this recipe a whirl, please share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turned out. Happy cooking, friends!
