Brown sugar & spice-glazed turkey with candied carrots

When the holiday season rolls around, it’s time to embrace dishes that feel warm, comforting, and just a bit indulgent. This Brown Sugar & Spice-Glazed Turkey with Candied Carrots offers a beautiful balance of sweetness and spice, bringing out the best in your holiday spread. The glaze’s rich, caramelized notes pair perfectly with the tenderness of roasted turkey, while the candied carrots provide a delightful side that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Flavor Pairing: Brown sugar and spices give the turkey a delightful caramelized crust, while the candied carrots add a touch of sweet earthiness.
• Elegant Presentation: The golden-brown glaze on the turkey and vibrant orange carrots make this a stunning dish to serve at any celebration.
• Simple yet Special: With just a few ingredients, you’ll create a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to prepare but packed with flavor.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

• 1 whole turkey (10-12 pounds), giblets removed
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Brown Sugar & Spice Glaze

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Candied Carrots

• 1 pound baby carrots
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Turkey

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels and place it on a large roasting pan.
3. Rub softened butter all over the turkey and season generously with salt and pepper, including inside the cavity.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

1. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and black pepper.
2. Heat over medium, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the glaze is well-mixed. Let it simmer briefly to thicken, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Glaze and Roast the Turkey

1. Brush the glaze generously over the entire turkey.
2. Cover the turkey loosely with foil, then place it in the oven. Roast according to its weight (around 15 minutes per pound).
3. Baste with additional glaze every 30 minutes. For the last 45 minutes, remove the foil to allow the skin to turn golden and caramelized.

Step 4: Prepare the Candied Carrots

1. While the turkey roasts, combine baby carrots, butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Add 1/4 cup water.
2. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the carrots are tender and coated in a thick glaze (about 15-20 minutes).

Step 5: Rest and Carve

1. Once the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes.
2. Slice the turkey and arrange it on a platter, surrounded by candied carrots for a beautiful presentation.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a light, zesty salad to balance the richness of the glaze. Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor and a pop of color.

Tips for a Perfect Glaze and Tender Turkey

• Temperature Check: A meat thermometer ensures the turkey is cooked through without drying out.
• Rest the Turkey: Allowing the turkey to rest keeps it juicy when you carve it.
• Avoid Burning the Glaze: If the glaze begins to darken too quickly, cover the turkey with foil to prevent it from over-caramelizing.

Variations

1. Add Citrus: Mix in a teaspoon of orange zest to the glaze for a subtle citrus twist.
2. Make it Spicier: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a mild heat.
3. Try Honey-Glazed Carrots: Substitute honey for brown sugar in the candied carrots for a different flavor profile.

Leftover Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat the turkey and carrots in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for the best results, or enjoy the turkey cold in sandwiches or salads.

With its beautiful blend of spices, sweetness, and savory richness, this Brown Sugar & Spice-Glazed Turkey with Candied Carrots will make your holiday meal unforgettable. The glaze’s caramelized finish and the tender, juicy turkey are sure to make this dish a crowd favorite, while the candied carrots add a sweet and colorful complement. Perfect for any festive occasion, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss.