Spatchcocked Butter-Roasted Lemon and Herb Turkey with Gravy

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Gravy Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup pan drippings
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Preparation Time:

• 1 hour

Cooking Time:

• 2-2 1/2 hours

Difficulty Level:

• 2 (Intermediate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Remove the turkey from the refrigerator and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
3. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
4. Using poultry shears, cut along both sides of the turkey's backbone. Remove the backbone and reserve for making gravy.
5. Flip the turkey over and press down on the breastbone to flatten it.
6. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
7. Rub the butter mixture all over the turkey, both inside and out.
8. Place the turkey on a roasting rack set in a large roasting pan.
9. Roast for 45 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
10. Continue roasting for an additional 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C).
11. Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving.

To Make the Gravy:

1. Remove the turkey from the roasting rack and set it aside.
2. Pour the pan drippings into a measuring cup, reserving the browned bits in the roasting pan.
3. Add enough chicken broth to the pan drippings to measure 1 cup.
4. Place the roasting pan over medium heat and scrape up the browned bits.
5. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
6. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth mixture.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 10g

Dish Characteristics:

• Juicy and flavorful turkey with a crispy skin
• Aromatic and herbaceous seasoning
• Rich and savory gravy

User Comments:

• "This turkey was the best I've ever had. It was so moist and flavorful."
• "The gravy was absolutely delicious. It was the perfect complement to the turkey."
• "I loved the crispy skin on the turkey. It was so delicious."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to remove the turkey from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. This will help ensure even cooking.
• Do not overcook the turkey. A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure the turkey is cooked to the proper temperature.
• Let the turkey rest for at least 15 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute. This will result in a more tender and juicy turkey.