Maple and Pepper Glazed Turkey

How to make Maple and Pepper Glazed Turkey Recipe - I tried several glazes but came to the realization that the simplest was the best. How wonderful!

SERVES 8

Ingredients:
One 12-pound turkey
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter, melted
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/2 cup fresh sage leaves

Method:
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the turkey in a roasting pan, breast up, and tie the legs together with kitchen twine. Stir together 3 tablespoons of the butter and all of the syrup and brush over the entire turkey.

Season generously all over with cracked pepper. Cover the bird loosely with aluminum foil. Roast for 30 minutes, then reduce the heat to 325°F. Continue to roast for another 3 hours, basting every 30 minutes and removing the foil for the last 30 minutes.

Remove the turkey from the oven and transfer to a large serving platter. Cover loosely with foil and let rest for 30 minutes before carving. Do not slice the turkey before those 30 minutes are up, or else all the juices will flow out of the bird! To serve, place the sage in a skillet with the remaining 1 tablespoon butter and gently fry until crisp. Serve scattered across the turkey.

Tip:
An easy way to see if your turkey is cooked is to insert a skewer into the thickest part of the thigh. The juices should run clear.

Hint:
This turkey graces my Christmas table with sides of roasted onions, Brussels sprouts, and carrots, and an extra touch of sausage wound with thin strips of bacon.

Maple and Pepper Glazed Turkey