Anthony Bourdain's Business Turkey

Anthony Bourdain’s Thanksgiving turkey is as simple as it gets. He suggests making two birds—one that you can parade at the table, dressed up “like a showgirl, with chop frills and elaborate fruit garnishes on a bed of old-school parsley or kale,” and another that’s already carved in the kitchen, ready to be served. Slideshow: More Global Thanksgiving Turkey Recipes 

Anthony Bourdain's Business Turkey
Photo: © Bobby Fisher
Active Time:
15 mins
Total Time:
2 hrs 45 mins
Yield:
10 to 12

Ingredients

  • One 14-pound turkey, neck reserved for stock and giblets reserved for stuffing

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

  • Kosher salt

  • Pepper

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°. Set a V-shape rack in a roasting pan. Brush the turkey all over with the butter and season with salt and pepper. Set the turkey in the rack breast side up and add 2 cups of water to the pan. Roast the turkey for about 2 hours, basting occasionally, until golden and an instant-read thermometer inserted in the inner thigh registers 165°. Transfer the turkey on the V rack to a baking sheet and let rest for 30 minutes. Pour the pan drippings into a bowl and reserve for the stuffing. Carve the turkey, arrange on a platter and serve.

Suggested Pairing

Juicy, savory California Syrah: 2013 Piedrasassi Santa Barbara County.

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