Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and the thought of preparing a traditional oven-roasted turkey may be causing some anxiety for many cooks. While the image of a perfectly cooked turkey graces the pages of Norman Rockwell paintings, the reality of tackling a large bird can be quite different. From the long hours of oven time to the challenging task of carving, it’s no wonder that some families are rethinking their Thanksgiving traditions.
Embracing a New Approach with Rotisserie Cooking
For smaller, younger families or those looking for a less traditional option, it may be time to consider the perfect partnership of grilling and hands-off cooking. Adding a rotisserie kit to your grill is a game-changer that yields tasty, juicy results without the hassle. Plus, it opens up a world of possibilities beyond turkey, including pork loin and eye-of-round roast.
Rotisserie Turkey Breast: A Recipe Worth Trying
If you’re craving succulent turkey breast, this rotisserie recipe will not disappoint. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 6-7 pound boneless turkey breast
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Directions:
- Combine the dry ingredients in a small bowl. Rub 1 tablespoon inside the turkey breast cavity, then gently work the skin loose and rub 1 tablespoon of the mixture under the skin. Sprinkle the remaining rub over the entire breast.
- Wrap the turkey breast tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 48 hours. Remove it from the fridge 2 hours before cooking.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Trim any loose skin off the turkey breast and place it on the rotisserie skewer. Avoid piercing the breast and distribute the weight evenly.
- Set up the breast over the grill burners and place a greased aluminum drip pan underneath. Start the rotisserie motor, close the lid, and cook for 1 hour. Check the temperature with an instant-read thermometer; it should be 150 to 155 degrees Fahrenheit at the thickest part of the breast.
- Remove the turkey from the grill and let it rest for 15 minutes before removing the spit and prongs. Slice and serve. Enjoy 10 servings of mouthwatering rotisserie turkey breast!
Rotisserie Turkey Thighs: Perfect for Dark Meat Lovers
For those who prefer dark meat, these rotisserie turkey thighs will satisfy your taste buds. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 2 1-pound bone-in, skin-on turkey thighs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- ½ cup turkey or chicken broth
Directions:
- Rinse the turkey thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning.
- Loosen the skin from the thighs and rub some of the butter mixture onto the meat of each thigh. Smooth the skin and then spread the remaining butter over the thighs.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Skewer the thighs on the rotisserie spit, positioned at the middle of the bone, and secure both ends with the prongs.
- Place a greased aluminum drip pan under the thighs and start the motor. Close the lid and cook for 1 hour, checking the temperature with an instant-read thermometer. The thickest part of the thigh should reach 170-175 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Remove the thighs from the grill and let them sit for 15 minutes before removing the spit and prongs. Now, it’s time to savor the deliciousness of rotisserie turkey thighs! This recipe serves 10.
Explore More Rotisserie Delights
If you’re in the mood to break with tradition or want to make the most of your rotisserie, there are other delectable options to consider. A brined rotisserie pork loin is a cost-friendly and easy-to-carve alternative. Pair it with baked sweet potatoes or Russet potatoes and a refreshing salad for a complete meal. Additionally, a rotisserie eye-of-round roast will impress your guests with its tenderness and flavor.
For the full recipes and cooking instructions for these mouthwatering dishes, head over to Ekilove. They offer a wide range of cooking inspiration and helpful tips to make your culinary adventures a success.
So, this Thanksgiving, say goodbye to oven-related stress and embrace the ease and succulence of rotisserie cooking. Your taste buds and guests will thank you!