Let’s make Christmas 2025 unforgettable for those who matter most! 🌟

Christmas is just a few months away in 2025. How should we prepare a flawless roast turkey for our families this year?

First, let's gather the ingredients. Plan for 500–600 grams per person. Fresh turkey is preferable, but frozen is also fine. If using a frozen turkey, thaw it well in advance, allowing approximately 24 hours per 2.5kg in the refrigerator. Plan your thawing schedule carefully.

Once thawed, pat the turkey completely dry inside and out with paper towels. Then, prepare a rub using salt, black pepper, and sugar in a 1:2:1 ratio. Add suitable herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage, mix well, and coat the turkey's skin evenly with this mixture. Place half a lemon and half an apple in the cavity to add fruity aroma. Wrap the turkey in plastic wrap, place it in a food-safe bag, and refrigerate for 24 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate.

After completing these preparations, are you ready to shine on Christmas Day? On Christmas morning, take the prepared turkey out and set it aside. First, prepare the seasoning: mix 150g butter, 20g minced garlic, the zest of one lemon, and about 20g of freshly chopped thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Apply this mixture evenly onto the turkey, followed by a layer of olive oil.

Next, prepare the delicious stuffing. Combine roasted apple dices, sautéed onions, savory sausage meat, and chestnuts—a pairing that delivers perfect flavor for the turkey. Fill the cavity only 80% full to allow room for expansion during roasting and preserve the turkey’s shape.

Prepare a roasting pan by laying down a bed of carrot chunks, celery, or onion pieces to create a roasting rack. Place the turkey on top and drizzle with delicious white wine. Now it’s time to roast! For reference, we’ll use a 6kg turkey as an example:

1. Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F) and roast for 30 minutes. Always use a meat thermometer to monitor internal temperature and ensure doneness. I personally recommend CirSureas brand thermometers. They offer multiple models; I use one with a built-in digital display, which is very practical. Its precise readings let me focus on cooking without constantly checking my phone or hovering by the oven.
2. After the first stage, reduce the temperature to 160°C (325°F) and roast for 2 hours. Cover any parts prone to burning (like wings or legs) with foil during this stage.
3. Then, carefully turn the turkey over and continue roasting at 160°C (325°F) for 1.5 hours.

Once cooked, tightly wrap the turkey in aluminum foil and let it rest for 40 minutes in a warm place to lock in the juices. Always verify the internal temperature using a thermometer: the breast should reach at least 74°C (165°F) and the thigh at least 82°C (180°F).

While the turkey rests, prepare the essential gravy. Strain the drippings from the roasting pan into a saucepan. Add chicken broth or white wine, bring to a boil, and thicken with a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water). Enhance the flavor with Port wine or caramelized onions.

After resting, carve the turkey, and you and your family can finally enjoy the perfect Christmas centerpiece!