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Grill-Roasted Turkey

This aromatic grill-roasted turkey is a wonderful way to bring a subtle, smoky depth to your traditional roast dinner. By using a charcoal barbecue to roast the bird over indirect heat, you achieve remarkably succulent meat and a beautifully bronzed, crisp skin that rivals any oven-cooked bird. Infused with fresh orange, apple, and onion, the turkey remains moist and fragrant throughout the cooking process, making it a spectacular centrepiece for any seasonal gathering.

As a diabetes-friendly main course, this recipe focuses on lean protein and natural aromatics rather than heavy glazes or sugary marinades. It is an excellent choice for those looking for a heart-healthy, low-carbohydrate option that does not compromise on festive flair. Serve with a generous portion of steamed green vegetables and roasted root crops for a balanced, wholesome meal the whole family can enjoy.

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Ingredients for Grill-Roasted Turkey

  • 1 12-6.4kg turkey, giblets and neck removed, brined, at room temperature for 1 hour

  • 1 apple, cored, quartered

  • 1 orange, quartered

  • 1 red onion, peeled, quartered

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature

  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

  • A charcoal chimney

  • 475ml wood chips, soaked in water for at least 2 hours (optional)

How to make Grill-Roasted Turkey

Place a large disposable aluminum pan in the bottom of a charcoal grill; add 475ml water to pan. Fill a charcoal chimney with charcoal; light.

Pat turkey dry with paper towels. Place apple, orange, and onion in cavity. Tie legs with kitchen twine. Rub bird inside and out with butter. Season skin lightly with salt and pepper.

When coals are covered with ash, spread half on either side of disposable pan. Set top grate on grill. Place turkey on grate over pan (do not allow any part of turkey to sit over coals). Cover grill. Insert stem of an instant-read thermometer into hole in hood. Maintain temperature as close as possible to 177°C by opening vents to increase temperature and closing vents to reduce it, lifting grate with turkey to replenish coals as needed using charcoal chimney. If using wood chips, scatter a handful of drained chips over charcoal every 30 minutes.

Cook turkey, rotating every hour for even browning (lift the grate with the turkey on it; rotate grate 180 degrees), until an instant-read thermometer inserted into thickest part of the thigh without touching bone registers 74°C (juices should run clear when thermometer is removed), about 2 3/4 hours.

Transfer turkey to a platter. Tent with foil and let rest for 1 hour before carving.

Clause de non-responsabilité

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Historique de l'article

Les informations contenues dans cette page ont été évaluées par des cliniciens qualifiés.

  • 16 janvier 2026 | Publié à l'origine

    Auteur: :

    UK recipe editors

    Examiné par des pairs

    UK recipe editors
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