Ultimate Roast Turkey

Preparation

Peel and quarter the onions. Soften the butter.

Method

1. 1 Heat the oven to 190°C/375°F/gas 5 (170°C for fan ovens).
2. 2 Remove all the packaging and giblets from the turkey.
3. 3 Calculate the cooking time by following the packaging instructions for your turkey, but if you’re unsure, allow 18 minutes per 450g/1lb and roast at 190°C/ 375°F/gas 5 (or 170°C for fan ovens).
4. 4 Put the onion and 2 rosemary sprigs into the cavity. Transfer to a large roasting tin.
5. 5 Spread the butter over the breast of the turkey and season. Cover with a large tent of foil.
6. 6 Roast for the calculated time, basting with the juices every 45 minutes.
7. 7 Remove the foil for the final 30 minutes of cooking time.
8. 8 Remove from the oven and check the turkey is cooked by piercing the thickest part of the leg with a skewer – if the juices run clear, you know it’s cooked.
9. 9 Transfer to a warm serving plate and cover loosely with foil.
10. 10 Allow the turkey to rest for at least 30 minutes, then garnish with the remaining rosemary sprigs and fresh cranberries to serve.