Adobo Rubbed Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe

Experience the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rico with this unforgettable Adobo-Rubbed Thanksgiving Turkey! Inspired by the traditional 'pavochon' – literally 'turkeypork' – this recipe delivers a rich, savory turkey with a distinct pork-like flavor profile. Perfect for holiday celebrations, it's a delicious alternative to the classic roast, offering a unique and exciting twist on your Thanksgiving or Christmas feast. Get ready for rave reviews!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 390 mins
Calories 535 kcal
Protein 135g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Adobo Rubbed Thanksgiving Turkey

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Adobo Rubbed Thanksgiving Turkey

  • Whole Turkey
  • Garlic Clove
  • Peppercorn
  • Dried Oregano
  • 2 tablespoons sea salt
  • Olive Oil
  • White Vinegar

How to Make Adobo Rubbed Thanksgiving Turkey

  1. Grind 1 tablespoon of black peppercorns. In a bowl, combine all the adobo rub ingredients (see below).
  2. Thoroughly rub the adobo mixture all over the turkey, ensuring even coverage under the skin and over the entire surface.
  3. Place the turkey in a large roasting bag or a sizeable container, cover tightly, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate.
  4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for the first 30 minutes.
  6. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Continue roasting, allowing approximately 30 minutes of cooking time per pound of turkey. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh before removing from the oven.
  7. Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

17 g

Sugar

0g

Fat

37g

Carbs

0g