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Citrus Herb Smoked Turkey
Created by: Howcan Team
Ingredients
- 1 (12-pound) whole turkey, thawed if frozen
- 1/2 cup of olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of fresh sage, chopped
- Zest of 2 lemons
- Zest of 2 oranges
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of olive oil, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of chopped rosemary, 2 tablespoons of chopped thyme, 2 tablespoons of chopped sage, zest of 2 lemons, zest of 2 oranges, 1 tablespoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper to create the citrus herb rub.
- Preheat your smoker to 250°F (120°C).
- Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity and pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
- Carefully loosen the skin from the turkey breast and legs by gently sliding your fingers underneath the skin, being careful not to tear it.
- Rub the citrus herb mixture under the skin and all over the turkey, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Place the turkey on the smoker rack and smoke for approximately 30 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C). This will take about 4 hours for a 12-pound turkey.
- Once the turkey is done, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving.
- Carve and serve the citrus herb smoked turkey with your favorite sides and enjoy!
The history of smoked turkey with citrus herb rub dates back to the early days of American barbecue. This flavorful dish combines the rich tradition of smoking meats with the bright, zesty flavors of citrus and herbs. Chefs in the southern United States, particularly in regions like Texas and Louisiana, have long been known for their expertise in smoking meats, and they were among the first to experiment with adding citrus and herb rubs to their turkey. Today, this dish is a popular choice for holiday feasts and special occasions, with the best versions often found in renowned barbecue restaurants and at festive gatherings. The key to achieving the perfect smoked turkey with citrus herb rub lies in the quality of the ingredients and the careful balance of flavors. The citrus adds a refreshing tang, while the herbs infuse the meat with aromatic depth. For those looking to try an alternative method, some chefs recommend brining the turkey before applying the citrus herb rub to enhance its juiciness and flavor. Whether prepared at home or enjoyed at a top-notch barbecue joint, this dish is a true celebration of American culinary ingenuity.
270 min
12
350 calories
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