last-minute guide - Roast turkey

A simple method for cooking the perfect turkey

Choose a bird that’s going to be the right size for you and your family – nobody wants to be eating turkey for days after the festivities (though a turkey and cranberry relish sandwich on soft white bloomer is lovely). I would recommend a free-range bird. Decide what sides you would like with your turkey – these extra bits can mean a few logistical tweaks, unless you’re lucky enough to have two ovens.

SERVES 5-6 PREP 10 mins plus at least 1 1/2 hrs resting COOK 3 hrs EASY

4.5kg free-range turkey

25g sage

25g thyme

20g garlic cloves

2 medium onions, halved olive oil, clarified butter or dripping, for roasting

10g sea salt

5g ground black pepper

Turkey cooking times(from room temperature)

If it weighs...