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December 10, 2024
If you’ve ever tasted the delicious turkey breast at Cracker Barrel, you know just how flavorful and juicy it can be. The good news is that you can recreate this mouthwatering dish at home with just a few simple ingredients and some easy steps.
First, you’ll need to gather your ingredients. The star of the show is, of course, the turkey breast. Make sure to choose a high-quality, boneless turkey breast that is around 2 to 3 pounds in weight. You’ll also need some olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried herbs like thyme and rosemary.
Before you start cooking, it’s important to properly season your turkey breast. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried herbs. Rub this mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to thoroughly coat it. This will help to enhance the flavor and keep the meat tender and moist.
Pro Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, you can also add some minced garlic and onion to the seasoning mixture.
Once your turkey breast is seasoned, it’s time to cook it. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and place the turkey breast in a roasting pan. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and roast the turkey breast for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baste the turkey breast with its own juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
When the turkey breast is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute and ensures that the meat remains juicy and tender. Once rested, slice the turkey breast and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Now you can enjoy the deliciousness of Cracker Barrel’s turkey breast right in the comfort of your own home. Whether it’s a holiday feast or just a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Bon appétit!
Preparing the Turkey Breast
Before you start cooking the Cracker Barrel turkey breast, you’ll need to make sure it’s properly prepared. Follow these steps to get your turkey breast ready:
1. Thaw the Turkey Breast
The first step in preparing the turkey breast is to thaw it if it’s frozen. You can thaw it in the refrigerator by placing it on a tray or in a shallow pan to catch any juices. Allow approximately 24 hours of thawing time for every 4 pounds of turkey breast.
2. Brine the Turkey Breast
Brining the turkey breast will help to enhance its flavor and ensure it stays moist and tender during cooking. To brine the turkey breast, combine water, salt, sugar, and any desired herbs and spices in a large pot or brining bag. Submerge the turkey breast in the brine and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours.
Note: Make sure to rinse the turkey breast thoroughly after brining to remove any excess salt.
3. Season the Turkey Breast
After brining, remove the turkey breast from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the turkey breast with your preferred herbs and spices, such as thyme, sage, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture onto all sides of the turkey breast to ensure it’s well-coated.
Tip: You can also brush the turkey breast with olive oil or melted butter before applying the seasonings to help them adhere better.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your Cracker Barrel turkey breast will be ready to cook. Proceed to the next section of the recipe to learn how to cook the turkey breast to perfection.
Choosing the Right Turkey Breast
When it comes to cooking a delicious turkey breast, it is important to choose the right one. Here are some factors to consider when selecting your turkey breast:
1. Fresh or Frozen
One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to buy a fresh or frozen turkey breast. Fresh turkey breasts are available at most grocery stores and have not been stored at freezing temperatures. They are convenient if you are planning to cook your turkey breast soon after purchasing. Frozen turkey breasts, on the other hand, can be stored for longer periods and are a good option if you don’t plan to cook your turkey immediately.
2. Size
The size of the turkey breast is another important factor to consider. The size you choose will depend on how many people you are planning to serve and whether you want leftovers. As a general rule, you’ll need about 1/2 pound of turkey breast per person. If you want leftovers, you may want to buy a larger turkey breast.
3. Bone-In or Boneless
Another decision to make is whether to buy a bone-in or boneless turkey breast. Bone-in turkey breasts tend to be juicier and more flavorful, but they may take longer to cook. Boneless turkey breasts are easier to slice and serve, but they may not have as much flavor. Choose based on your personal preference and cooking time.
4. Organic or Conventional
If you prefer organic meats, you may want to look for an organic turkey breast. Organic turkeys are raised without antibiotics or hormones and are fed organic feed. While they may be more expensive, they offer a more natural and sustainable option.
By considering these factors, you can choose the right turkey breast for your cooking needs and ensure a delicious meal for your family and friends.
Thawing the Turkey Breast
Thawing the turkey breast is an important step to ensure it cooks evenly and safely. There are three methods you can choose from to thaw the turkey breast:
1. Refrigerator Thawing
The safest method of thawing a turkey breast is to place it in the refrigerator. Follow these steps:
- Remove the turkey breast from the packaging and place it on a tray or shallow pan to catch any drips.
- Make sure the refrigerator temperature is set to 40°F (4°C) or below.
- Place the turkey breast in the refrigerator and allow it to thaw for approximately 24 hours for every 4 pounds (1.8 kg) of turkey breast weight.
- Once the turkey breast is completely thawed, it is ready to be cooked.
2. Cold Water Thawing
If you need to thaw the turkey breast quickly, you can use the cold water thawing method. Follow these steps:
- Fill a clean sink or a large container with enough cold water to submerge the turkey breast.
- Remove the turkey breast from the packaging and place it in a leak-proof plastic bag.
- Place the turkey breast in the cold water and make sure it is fully submerged.
- Change the water every 30 minutes to keep it cold. This will help speed up the thawing process.
- Allow approximately 30 minutes of thawing time per pound (0.45 kg) of turkey breast.
- Once the turkey breast is thawed, it should be cooked immediately.
3. Microwave Thawing (Not Recommended)
The microwave thawing method is not recommended as it may lead to uneven thawing and can partially cook the turkey breast. However, if you choose to use this method, follow the microwave manufacturer’s instructions for defrosting.
Remember, it is important to always handle and thaw the turkey breast properly to avoid any risk of foodborne illness. Now that you know how to thaw the turkey breast, you are ready to move on to the next step.
Marinating the Turkey Breast
Marinating the turkey breast before cooking is an essential step to infuse it with flavor and keep it moist and tender. Here’s how to marinate your turkey breast:
1. Prepare the marinade by combining your choice of ingredients such as olive oil, herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or sage), garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Place the turkey breast in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
3. Pour the marinade over the turkey breast, making sure it is fully coated. If using a plastic bag, seal it tightly, removing any excess air. If using a dish, cover it with plastic wrap.
4. Place the marinated turkey breast in the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. This will allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat and enhance its taste.
5. Occasionally, flip the turkey breast or gently massage it to ensure even marination.
6. Before cooking, remove the turkey breast from the marinade and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to take off the chill.
Now, your turkey breast is ready to be cooked using your preferred method, whether it’s in the oven, slow cooker, or on the grill.
Making the Marinade
To prepare the marinade for your Cracker Barrel turkey breast, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried sage
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Here are the steps to make the marinade:
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, olive oil, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried sage, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Stir the ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed.
- Place the turkey breast in a large resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag tightly, ensuring all the air is removed.
- Massage the marinade into the turkey breast, making sure to coat it thoroughly. Allow the turkey breast to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
By marinating the turkey breast, you are infusing it with a delicious blend of flavors that will enhance its taste and tenderness. The buttermilk helps to tenderize the meat, while the herbs and spices add a savory dimension to the turkey.
FAQ
What is a cracker barrel turkey breast?
Cracker Barrel turkey breast is a dish made with turkey breast that is typically marinated and cooked to perfection. It is a popular item on the menu at Cracker Barrel, a restaurant chain known for its Southern-style comfort food.
How do I cook a cracker barrel turkey breast?
To cook a cracker barrel turkey breast, start by marinating the turkey breast in a mixture of herbs and spices. Let it marinate for at least an hour, then place it in a roasting pan and cook it in the oven at 325°F for about 30 minutes per pound. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey breast reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before removing it from the oven.
What herbs and spices are typically used to marinate a cracker barrel turkey breast?
A cracker barrel turkey breast is typically marinated with a combination of herbs and spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried sage, salt, and black pepper. These seasonings help to enhance the flavor of the turkey breast and add a delicious aroma.
Can I cook a cracker barrel turkey breast on a grill?
Yes, you can cook a cracker barrel turkey breast on a grill. Simply preheat your grill to medium heat and place the turkey breast directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Make sure to turn the turkey breast occasionally to ensure even cooking.
What are some side dishes that pair well with cracker barrel turkey breast?
There are many side dishes that pair well with cracker barrel turkey breast. Some popular options include mashed potatoes, green beans, cornbread, macaroni and cheese, sweet potato casserole, and cranberry sauce. These dishes complement the flavors of the turkey breast and provide a well-rounded and delicious meal.