Get ready to elevate your turkey game with this savory herb Turkey Rub – no sugar needed! This blend of spices is your secret weapon for perfectly seasoned, mouthwatering turkey every single time.
You know me by now – don’t you?! I’m the girl with a million and one jars of homemade seasonings in her spice cabinet. From staples like fajita seasoning, taco seasoning, and Italian seasoning to ones, like this brisket dry rub, that only make an appearance every now and then.
Either way, I’m a firm believer of keeping my spices stocked up at all times. That way, when I’m in need of a homemade seasoning mix or spice blend, it’s literally right at my fingertips. They’re so easy and quick to whip up yourself at home. Annnnd you get to control EXACTLY what goes in ’em. Which is arguably my favourite reason of all (and the sole one that should convince you) to hop on the homemade spice blend bandwagon.
I consider spices to be the not-so-secret kitchen weapons everyone should take advantage of. There’s so many different combinations and creations you can make that if you keep the basics on hand at all times, you’ll have endless options to use for a variety of tasty dishes whenever you so please. My spice rack has admittingly grown in the last few years and it’s always fun to create a rub or a mix based on what I have available.
This turkey rub is the perfect blend of aromatic dried herbs and spices without getting too crazy or fancy with it. Whether you’re roasting wings, drumsticks, thighs, a boneless breast, or a whole turkey, this mix ensures every bite is packed with maximum flavour. From casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday gatherings, this rub has you covered.
So are you ready to say goodbye to bland turkey and hello to a deliciously seasoned feast?!
TURKEY SEASONING RECIPE INGREDIENTS
I consider this array of spices to be pretty standard – if you don’t have them already stocked up in your spice cabinet, now is a good time to start! They’re great spices on their own and definitely part of the ones in my collection that I find myself grabbing most often. Let’s discuss each dried herb/spice in a little bit more detail down below:
- Thyme: Adds a subtle earthiness with a hint of lemon and mint, which pairs beautifully with turkey. It’s a classic herb often used in poultry seasoning because it enhances the meat’s natural flavours without overpowering them.
- Rosemary: Has a robust pine-like aroma that gives the turkey a fragrant and woodsy flavour. Additionally, its slightly peppery taste complements the richness of the meat, making each bite more complex and enjoyable.
- Oregano: Brings a slightly bitter and peppery taste with hints of sweetness and mint. Moreover, it’s a staple in Mediterranean cooking and adds a warm, aromatic quality to the rub that balances the other herbs.
- Paprika: Adds a mild sweetness and a vibrant red colour to the rub. Depending on the type, it can also bring a smoky (smoked paprika) or slightly spicy kick (hot paprika), adding depth to the overall flavour profile of the turkey.
- Garlic Powder: A versatile ingredient that offers a savory, umami-rich taste. It infuses the turkey with a deep, slightly sweet garlic flavour that permeates the meat, enhancing its overall deliciousness.
- Onion Powder: Provides a sweet and tangy flavour that complements the garlic and other spices. Furthermore, it’s a great way to add a touch of savory depth without the texture of fresh onions.
- Black Pepper: Adds a sharp, pungent heat that balances the sweetness of the paprika and the earthiness of the herbs. It also helps to bring out the natural juices and flavours of the turkey as it cooks.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and tenderizing the turkey. It also helps to draw out the moisture from the meat, creating a flavourful brine that keeps the turkey juicy and delicious.
- Cayenne Pepper (optional): Adds a spicy kick for those who like a bit of heat. It’s optional, so you can adjust the amount or omit completely to suit your taste preferences, ensuring the rub is perfect for everyone.
HOW TO MAKE TURKEY SEASONING RUB (KEY TIPS)
You can find full instructions for how to make this quick and easy recipe for turkey rub in the recipe card down below, but here are a few quick tips to keep in mind:
- For the best flavour, use fresh, high-quality dried herbs and spices. Old or stale spices can lose their potency, which might result in a less flavourful rub.
- Use precise measurements for each ingredient to maintain the perfect balance of flavours. Too much of any one spice can overpower the rub, while too little might not provide enough flavour.
- Adjust to taste. Feel free to adjust the quantities of each spice according to your taste preferences. For instance, if you prefer a bit more heat, add extra cayenne pepper; for a milder flavour, reduce the amount of black pepper.
- Mix the spices well to ensure an even distribution of flavours. I like to place them all in a jar with a tight fitting lid, then shake it vigorously until all of the spices are well blended. However, if needed, use a small whisk or a spice grinder to combine the ingredients thoroughly.
- When it comes time to use the rub – don’t be shy! Apply a generous amount to the turkey, making sure to cover all surfaces evenly. This ensures that every bite is flavourful and well-seasoned. EXTRA TIP: After applying the rub, if time allows, let the turkey sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavours to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavourful and juicy turkey.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Yes, rubbing oil or melted butter on your turkey can add flavour, help the seasoning adhere better, and promote a crispy, golden skin. Both oil and butter work well, but oil has a higher smoke point and might be preferable for high-temperature roasting.
Yes, you can put turkey rub under the skin to enhance flavour throughout the meat. Gently loosen the skin with your fingers and rub some of the seasoning directly onto the meat before re-securing the skin. This technique helps the flavours penetrate deeper into the turkey and is my preferred method.
To ensure the rub sticks to the turkey:
Pat the Turkey Dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the turkey. A dry surface helps the rub adhere better.
Apply Oil or Butter: Rub a thin layer of oil or melted butter all over the turkey. This creates a sticky surface for the rub to cling to.
Generously Apply the Rub: Sprinkle the rub evenly over the turkey, making sure to cover all surfaces. Press it gently into the meat to help it adhere.
Let It Rest: Allow the turkey to sit with the rub on it for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator. This helps the rub to stick and the flavours to penetrate the meat.
Yes, you can season turkey the night before. Applying the rub and letting it sit in the refrigerator overnight allows the flavours to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavourful and well-seasoned turkey. Just make sure to cover the turkey to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors from the fridge.
Store homemade turkey rub in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. A glass jar or a tightly sealed plastic container works well. Properly stored, the rub should remain fresh and flavourful for up to 6 months. For the best results, label the container with the date it was made.
MORE HOMEMADE SEASONINGS AND RUBS FOR YOU TO TRY
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TURKEY RUB
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp Dried Thyme
- 2 tbsp Dried Oregano
- 2 tbsp Dried Rosemary
- 2 tbsp Paprika
- 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tbsp Onion Powder
- 1 tbsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper optional, for a bit of heat
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients in a small bowl or jar.
- Mix well until thoroughly combined. Store in an airtight container if not using immediately.
Video
Notes
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