Gordon Ramsay's Thanksgiving Recipe Guide

Recent questions

• How do I make flavored butter?

  To make flavored butter, start by softening 250g of butter until it’s easy to mix. Then, add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. For added richness, incorporate 2 tablespoons of olive oil. To infuse the butter with a zesty flavor, mix in the zest and juice of 2 lemons. For a savory kick, puree 3 garlic cloves and add them to the mixture. Finally, chop some fresh parsley and fold it into the butter. This combination creates a deliciously flavored butter that can enhance various dishes, from spreading on bread to using it in cooking.

• What should I put inside a turkey?

  When preparing a turkey for roasting, seasoning the cavity is essential for flavor. Start by generously sprinkling salt and pepper inside the turkey. For added depth of flavor, fill the cavity with 2 halved onions, which will caramelize during cooking, 1 lemon for a citrusy brightness, and 2 bay leaves that impart a subtle herbal note. This combination not only enhances the taste of the turkey but also helps to keep it moist during the roasting process, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy bird.

• How do I check if turkey is cooked?

  To determine if your turkey is fully cooked, the best method is to check the juices running from the meat. Insert a knife into the thickest part of the thigh; if the juices run clear without any traces of pink, the turkey is done. This method is reliable as it indicates that the meat has reached a safe internal temperature. After confirming it’s cooked, let the turkey rest uncovered for about 2.5 hours. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and flavorful turkey when it’s finally carved.

• What is the best way to make gravy?

  To make a rich and flavorful gravy, start by draining any excess fat from the roasting tray after cooking your turkey. Next, add chopped bacon to the tray, allowing it to render its fat and flavor. Incorporate the roasted onions and lemon from the tray, which will add depth to the gravy. Pour in some dry cider along with the resting juices from the turkey, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the liquid by half, stirring occasionally to combine all the flavors. This process results in a delicious gravy that complements your turkey perfectly.

• How do I roast spiced potatoes?

  To roast spiced potatoes, begin by boiling quartered potatoes in salted water for about 8 minutes until they are slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. In a mixing bowl, season the potatoes with salt, pepper, chili flakes for heat, and turmeric for color and flavor. Drizzle the seasoned potatoes with olive oil, ensuring they are well coated. Spread them out on a baking tray and roast in a preheated oven at 200°C for approximately 40 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. This method yields deliciously spiced roast potatoes that are a perfect side dish.