Ingredients
- 12 lbs turkey, brined
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp salt, ground sea
- 1 tbsp black pepper, ground
- 1 tbsp paprika, mild
- 1 tbsp garlic, powder
- 1 tsp ginger, powdered
- 1 stick butter, 1/4 lb (120 grams)
- 1 cup chicken stock or turkey stock
- 2 tsp cajun seasoning or paprika
- 1 tsp garlic, powder
Recipe Description
The traditional way of cooking turkey is to roast it in the oven, but I can tell you turkey cooked in the smoker just adds a touch of class to your festive celebrations. Although any time of the year is a good time to cook turkey in the USA, Thanksgiving and Christmas offer you the opportunity to do something special with your family and friends.
Smokers aren't just for cooking ribs. Get adventurous and smoke your turkey for the festive season.
Recipe Directions
1. Brine your turkey for a minimum 1 hour per pound in the refrigerator. Remove turkey from brining solution and dry totally with kitchen paper. Allow to come up to room temperature.
2. Mix together the wet rub ingredients and apply liberally over the turkey. Prepare the butter baste. Place the turkey in the pre-heated smoker, following the manufacturer's instructions. I cooked at a temperature of 225 f (110 c) and I used Jack Daniels wood chips.
3. Cook for approximately 30 - 40 minutes per pound basting the turkey with the prepared butter baste each hour. I used a meat thermometer to determine when to remove the turkey from the smoker. It needs to register 170 f (75 c) in the thick part of the thigh and 160 (71 c) for the breast. Allow to rest for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before carving.
