Uncle Beef
Whole Turkey
Whole Turkey
Full product description
Make it a proper feast with our whole turkey—succulent, generously sized and perfect for centre-stage roasting. Dry the skin, season well and start hot for a bronzed, crispy finish, then roast gently until the breast is juicy and the legs are tender. Whether you go classic with herb butter and bacon, or citrus and garlic with a rich gravy, this bird carves beautifully and feeds a crowd with leftovers for days.
Why you’ll love it
-
Whole bird for showpiece roasting and generous portions
-
Even cooking with butcher-trimmed presentation
-
Crispy skin, juicy meat with a simple hot-then-gentle method
-
Ideal for Sunday lunch, Christmas and celebrations—plus leftovers
Bird details
-
Whole turkey, typically with giblets (check pack)
-
Trussed or stringed for shape (may vary by batch)
-
Fresh, never previously frozen (unless stated on pack)
-
Typical weight ranges available—choose the size to suit your table
How to cook (quick guide)
Prep (best results):
-
Unwrap, pat the skin very dry; air-chill in the fridge 4–24 hrs uncovered if possible.
-
Bring to room temp 30–60 mins before roasting. Season the cavity; rub skin with butter or oil and salt.
-
Optional: butter under the skin over the breasts for extra juiciness.
Roast method (hot start, gentle finish):
-
Preheat 220°C (fan 200°C). Roast 20–30 mins to colour the skin.
-
Reduce to 170–180°C (fan 150–160°C) and continue until done.
-
Guide (un-stuffed): 35–40 mins per kg
-
Stuffed birds cook longer; use a thermometer.
-
-
Target temps: Breast 74–75°C, Thigh 80–82°C.
-
Rest 30–45 mins loosely covered before carving.
Gravy tip: Deglaze the roasting tray with stock/wine, scrape the caramelised bits, and simmer to a glossy finish.
If your turkey is labelled frozen: Defrost in the fridge on a tray—allow 24 hrs per 2–2.5 kg, then cook as above.
Size guide (approx. servings)
-
3–4 kg: 6–8 people
-
4–5 kg: 8–10 people
-
5–6 kg: 10–12 people
-
6–7 kg: 12–14 people
(Depends on appetites and side dishes.)
Serving ideas
-
Classic herb butter: thyme, rosemary, lemon zest and streaky bacon over the breast
-
Citrus & garlic: orange, lemon and bay with a pan gravy
-
Honey–mustard glaze for the final 15 minutes
-
Leftovers: turkey sandwiches with stuffing and cranberry, pies, curries and ramen-style soups
Storage & handling
-
Keep refrigerated below 5°C
-
Cook within 1 day of opening
-
Suitable for home freezing (if fresh): freeze on day of purchase; defrost in the fridge and use within 24 hours of defrosting
-
Wash hands and equipment after handling raw poultry; avoid cross-contamination
FAQs
Stuffed or unstuffed?
For even cooking, roast unstuffed and bake stuffing separately. If stuffing, pack loosely and check 75°C in the centre.
How do I keep the breast moist?
Butter under the skin, baste lightly, and don’t overcook—pull at target temps and rest well.
Spatchcock option?
Yes—spatchcocking speeds things up and cooks more evenly; roast at 200°C (fan 180°C) until temps are reached.
Crispier skin?
Dry the bird thoroughly, salt the skin, start hot, and finish with 5 minutes at high heat if needed.