Introduction
The holidays beckon us to create meals that bring warmth and joy, and what better way to celebrate than with a turkey roulade? This delightful dish not only tastes incredible but also makes for an impressive centerpiece on your table. Filled with a fragrant cranberry-sage stuffing, this roulade redefines traditional turkey fare.
Preparing turkey in a roulade form simplifies slicing and serving, ensuring each family member or guest receives the perfect portion. The fusion of flavors from the sage and the sweetness of cranberries combined with tender turkey breast creates a harmony that's hard to resist. Let’s dive into this festive recipe that will surely become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of boneless turkey breast
This is the primary protein in the dish, providing a succulent and tender base that is easy to roll and slice. - 1 cup fresh cranberries
These add a tart sweetness, balancing the savory flavors of the stuffing while also providing a beautiful color contrast. - 1 cup fresh bread crumbs
Bread crumbs act as a binding agent in the stuffing, absorbing flavors and moisture, ensuring the mixture is hearty yet delicate. - 1/2 cup chopped onion
Onion contributes aromatic flavors and moisture, enhancing the stuffing’s profile and improving overall taste. - 1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped
Sage adds a fragrant, earthy depth to the dish, complementing the turkey while working harmoniously with the cranberries. - 1/2 cup chicken broth
Broth is used to moisten the stuffing, providing added flavor and preventing the mixture from becoming too dry. - 1 large egg, beaten
The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold the stuffing together and giving it a slightly richer texture. - Salt and pepper to taste
Seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the turkey and stuffing, ensuring every bite is flavorful. - Olive oil for sautéing
Oil is essential for cooking the onion, providing moisture and a base for the other ingredients to develop their flavors. - Twine or kitchen string
Used for securing the roulade tightly, twine ensures that the turkey stays rolled and retains its shape during cooking.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the turkey breast.
Begin by placing the turkey breast skin-side down on a large cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully butterfly the turkey, cutting it almost all the way through so that you can open it like a book. This step is crucial as it ensures even cooking and allows for more area to fill with the delicious stuffing.
Step 2: Make the cranberry-sage stuffing.
In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the fresh cranberries, sage, and bread crumbs, stirring to combine. Pour in chicken broth and the beaten egg, mixing until just combined. This mixture will bring the stuffing to life with its complementary flavors, making every bite of the roulade memorable.
Step 3: Fill and roll the turkey.
Spread the stuffing evenly over the butterflied turkey breast, leaving a small edge around the sides. Starting at one end, carefully roll the turkey tightly over the filling. Use twine to tie the roulade at 2-inch intervals to secure it. This is a vital step as tying maintains its shape while cooking and prevents the stuffing from leaking out.
Step 4: Sear the roulade.
In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat additional olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the turkey roulade on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Searing develops a rich, caramelized exterior that adds depth of flavor while also locking in juices, enhancing moisture during baking.
Step 5: Bake the roulade.
Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven set at 375°F (190°C). Bake for approximately 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This cooking step ensures the turkey is safely cooked while leaving the stuffing perfectly moist and flavorful.
Step 6: Rest and slice.
Once baked, let the roulade rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring each slice is juicy and tender. Use a sharp knife to make even cuts, revealing the beautiful spiral of stuffing inside.
The Essence of Sage and Cranberries
Sage and cranberries form the backbone of the flavor in this turkey roulade. Sage, with its earthy notes, imparts warmth, while cranberries offer a tangy contrast that cuts through the richness of the turkey. Together, they elevate this dish from simple to extraordinary, making it a perfect holiday meal or a comforting family dinner.
Mastering the Art of Rolling
Achieving a perfectly rolled turkey roulade is both an art and a science. Properly butterflying the turkey ensures that it can be rolled tightly without tearing. This not only maintains the structural integrity during cooking but also allows for a beautiful presentation. The result? A stunning spiral of stuffing in every slice, inviting and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions for Your Roulade
This turkey roulade pairs beautifully with various side dishes and sauces. Consider serving it alongside garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh salad. A drizzle of homemade gravy or a sweet-tart cranberry sauce can elevate the flavors even further, creating a balanced plate that satisfies both the appetite and the palate.
FAQs
What if my turkey roulade unrolls during cooking?
Ensure that you tie the roulade tightly with twine. If it unrolls, you can secure it with additional twine or use toothpicks to help keep it in shape while it finishes cooking.
Can I use ground turkey instead of turkey breast?
While ground turkey can be used, it might result in a denser texture. If you prefer ground turkey, consider mixing in some finely chopped vegetables for added moisture and flavor.
What if the stuffing is too dry?
If the stuffing seems dry when mixing, gradually add more chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency. This will ensure a moist stuffing that melds well with the turkey.
How do I know when the roulade is cooked through?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
Can I add nuts to the stuffing?
Yes, incorporating chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can add a pleasant crunch and additional flavor to the stuffing, making it even more special.
How can I adjust this recipe for a larger gathering?
To scale this recipe, use more turkey breast and proportionally increase the stuffing ingredients. Just ensure you have a larger roasting pan to accommodate the size.
Conclusion
The turkey roulade with cranberry-sage stuffing is more than just a meal; it's an experience that brings joy to your dining table. Each slice reveals a lovely swirl of flavors, making it a dish that everyone will remember.
As you prepare this dish, embrace the aromas and colors that come together to create something truly magical. With its festive flair, this roulade is bound to be a hit at family gatherings and celebrations alike.
Recipe Card
Savory Turkey Roulade with Cranberry-Sage Filling
Ingredients
- 2 pounds turkey breast flattened
- 1 cup cranberry sauce homemade or canned
- 1 cup bread crumbs preferably day-old
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup fresh sage chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg beaten
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the stuffing by heating a skillet over medium heat and sautéing the onion until translucent.
- In a bowl, combine the sautéed onion, bread crumbs, cranberry sauce, chopped sage, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Lay the flattened turkey breast on a clean surface and season it with salt and pepper.
- Spread the stuffing mixture evenly over the turkey breast, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Carefully roll the turkey breast away from you, tucking the stuffing tightly as you go.
- Secure the roulade with kitchen twine or toothpicks at both ends and in several spots along the roll.
- Place the roulade seam side down on a roasting pan and roast for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and let the roulade rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Slice and serve the turkey roulade with additional cranberry sauce, if desired.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
