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garlic herb paste

Garlic Herb Smoked Turkey

Difficulty: Easy
Servings 12

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole turkey 12-13 pounds
  • 6 sticks ghee 1 1/2 blocks, softened
  • 6-8 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped
  • 2 teaspoons fresh sage chopped
  • 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons favorite turkey rub/seasoning
  • Apple wood chunks for smoking

Instructions
 

  • haw the turkey by leaving it at room temperature for 12-16 hours, then transfer to the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
  • Remove giblets and neck from the turkey cavity.
  • Spatchcock the turkey by cutting out the backbone with kitchen shears, then flatten the breastbone.
  • In a bowl, mix softened ghee, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, red pepper flakes, lime zest, and turkey rub until smooth.
  • Coat the entire turkey with the garlic herb paste, creating a thick layer. Optionally, lift the skin over the breast and apply extra paste directly onto the meat.
  • Cover and refrigerate the seasoned turkey overnight, or for at least 2 hours if short on time.
  • Preheat the smoker to 275°F and add apple wood chunks. Place an empty pan under the turkey to catch drippings.
  • Smoke the turkey for 90 minutes without opening. Then, begin basting with remaining paste every 30-45 minutes until the internal temperature of the breast reaches 165°F.
  • Remove the turkey from the smoker and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving.