Greek Traditional Turkey with Chestnut and Pine Nut Stuffing

Ingredients and Weight

• 1 (12-pound) whole turkey, thawed
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped parsley
• 2 cups cooked chestnuts, chopped
• 1 cup pine nuts
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 cups chicken broth

Preparation Time:

• 30 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 3-4 hours

Difficulty Level:

• 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare stuffing: In a large bowl, combine celery, onion, carrots, parsley, chestnuts, pine nuts, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff the turkey: Loosely fill the turkey cavity with stuffing. Tie the legs together with twine.
4. Roast: Place the turkey on a roasting rack set in a roasting pan. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Baste: Every 30 minutes, baste the turkey with the pan juices. Add chicken broth to the pan if necessary to prevent the turkey from drying out.
6. Cook: Roast the turkey until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (without touching the bone) reads 165°F (74°C). This will take approximately 3-4 hours.
7. Rest: Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes before carving.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Protein: 35 grams
• Fat: 15 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Tender and flavorful turkey
• Savory and nutty stuffing
• Aromatic with Greek herbs
• Perfect for a festive holiday meal

User Comments:

• "The turkey was cooked to perfection and the stuffing was delicious."
• "The combination of chestnuts and pine nuts in the stuffing was a great touch."
• "I've had turkey many times, but this one was truly exceptional."
• "The Greek herbs gave the dish an extra layer of flavor."
• "My guests raved about this dish. It's definitely a new holiday tradition."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use a turkey that is large enough to accommodate the stuffing.
• Do not overstuff the turkey, as this can cause it to cook unevenly.
• If you don't have chestnuts, you can substitute walnuts or almonds.
• To ensure the turkey is cooked thoroughly, use an instant-read thermometer.
• Let the turkey rest before carving to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.