How to Cooking a Delicious Traeger Turkey?

Thanksgiving is a time-honored tradition celebrated with family gatherings and, most importantly, a sumptuous feast. The centerpiece of this celebration is often a perfectly cooked turkey. While traditional oven-roasted turkey has its charm, smoking the bird adds a new dimension of flavor that elevates the festive experience. Here’s a unique take on the traditional Thanksgiving turkey, drawing inspiration from the Traeger smoked turkey recipe but with a few twists to make it your own.

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound unsalted butter, softened
• 6 cloves of garlic, minced
• 8 sprigs of fresh thyme, leaves removed
• 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon cracked black pepper
• 1/2 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 (12 lb) whole turkey
• Optional: lemon zest, orange zest, and a splash of maple syrup for a sweet, citrusy twist

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the Grill:

   • Set your grill to 300°F and preheat with the lid closed for 15 minutes.

2. Prepare the Butter Mixture:

   • In a bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic, thyme leaves, chopped rosemary, black pepper, kosher salt, and if desired, the zest of one lemon and one orange, plus a splash of maple syrup.

3. Butter the Turkey:

   • Gently separate the skin from the turkey breast to create pockets. Spread a 1/4-inch thick layer of the butter mixture under the skin, ensuring the breast is fully covered.

4. Season the Turkey:

   • Rub the remaining butter mixture over the outside of the turkey. Season the entire bird with additional kosher salt and black pepper. Optionally, stuff the cavity with a traditional stuffing or a blend of citrus fruits and fresh herbs.

5. Smoking the Turkey:

   • Place the turkey on the grill and smoke for 3-4 hours, maintaining a consistent temperature of 300°F. Monitor the internal temperature, aiming for 175°F in the thigh and 160°F in the breast.

6. Rest and Serve:

   • Once the turkey reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful turkey.

Tips for the Perfect Smoked Turkey

• Brining: Consider brining your turkey 24 hours before cooking to enhance its flavor and moisture content. A basic brine includes water, salt, sugar, and a mix of aromatic spices.
• Wood Pellets: Use a blend of wood pellets designed for turkey to add a rich, smoky flavor. Hickory, apple, and cherry wood pellets are excellent choices.
• Meat Thermometer: A wireless meat thermometer can help you keep track of the internal temperature without opening the grill frequently, ensuring an even cook.

Conclusion

Smoking your Thanksgiving turkey not only adds a delightful smoky flavor but also makes for a moist and tender bird that will impress your guests. This unique recipe combines traditional elements with innovative touches, making your Thanksgiving meal truly special. Enjoy the process of preparing and sharing this delicious dish with your loved ones. Happy Thanksgiving!