Holidays, winter and... turkey! But not the usual turkey: follow chef Ilaria Vitale's recipe in the company of spices and BBQ sauce flavored with the most popular cocktail in the world: the Gin Tonic!
Even the simplest preparation becomes super tasty, with chef Ilaria Vitale (ilafood), in the company of BUGIN spices and sauces.
The rub is a mixture of salt, spices and herbs: in this case, with the Gin Tonic rub, without alcohol, you get the characteristic aromas and flavors of the most popular cocktail in the world.
Then we accompany this delicious turkey with Gin Tonic BBQ sauce, for a 360° experience!
Method 1: Dry chest massage.
Result? Crusty with a nice juicy interior!
Method 2: Rub mixed with butter on the thigh.
Result? Softness and great flavor!
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Turkey during the holidays: a tasty tradition with deep historical roots
During the holidays, one of the most cherished and iconic meats is certainly turkey. Although it is a dish commonly found on Christmas tables and for Thanksgiving, few know the historical origins and the unique characteristics of this bird that has conquered tables worldwide.
The history of turkey: a journey from america to europe
Turkey, native to the Americas, was already present in the diets of indigenous peoples long before European settlers arrived in the New World. Spanish explorers were the first to bring it to Europe in the 16th century, where it quickly spread and became a prized meat. The name "turkey" itself comes from a series of linguistic misunderstandings, as Europeans initially associated the bird with the Ottoman Empire, Turkey, from which they thought it had arrived.
Over the centuries, turkey became a symbol of abundance and prosperity. It is within the context of Christmas feasts and grand banquets that turkey reached its peak popularity, with traditional dishes passed down from generation to generation.
The characteristics of turkey meat: a treasure for health and taste
When we talk about turkey, we immediately think of a healthy, lean, and nutrient-rich meat. But what makes this meat so special?
lean meat suitable for everyone: Turkey is a very lean meat, with low levels of saturated fat. Turkey breast, in particular, is one of the healthiest sources of protein, ideal for those following a balanced diet or anyone who wants to maintain a healthy weight without sacrificing flavor.
rich in protein: Turkey is a high-protein meat, essential for muscle recovery, bone health, and immune function. It’s perfect for athletes, young people, and seniors who need high-quality nutrients.
delicate flavor: Compared to other poultry such as chicken or duck, turkey has a milder and softer flavor. This makes it highly versatile in cooking, pairing well with a wide variety of seasonings and sauces without overpowering other flavors. It’s the perfect companion for holiday dishes, where we often look for a balance between flavor and lightness.
rich in vitamins and minerals: In addition to protein, turkey is rich in B vitamins, particularly B3 (niacin) and B6, which are essential for energy metabolism and proper nervous system function. It also contains important minerals like iron, which helps combat anemia, and selenium, which supports the immune system.
Turkey in holiday culinary traditions
Turkey has now become a staple on Christmas tables, but each country has its own way of preparing it. In Italy, for example, turkey is often served whole, stuffed with chestnuts, mushrooms, or sausage, and accompanied by rich sauces such as cranberry sauce or green sauce.
In the United States, turkey is the centerpiece of Thanksgiving, where it is traditionally prepared with a stuffing made from bread, herbs, and spices, often served with mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce.
The beauty of turkey lies in its versatility: it can be cooked in various ways, from slow roasting with flavorful stuffings to grilling, or in more modern recipes like turkey sautéed with vegetables or the classic roast turkey.
the traditional christmas recipe: stuffed turkey
One of the most iconic dishes is stuffed turkey, which can vary from recipe to recipe but generally includes ingredients such as chestnuts, prunes, sausage, onion, rosemary, and butter. Slow roasting in the oven ensures the turkey remains tender and juicy, while the stuffing adds rich, comforting flavors to the dish.
A dish symbolizing togetherness
Turkey is not just a dish to enjoy; it represents a symbol of togetherness. In many cultures, it’s a dish prepared to bring family and friends together, a moment of celebration and unity. It is the dish that embodies generosity, where each slice tells a story of tradition, care, and shared love.
Conclusion: a Christmas with turkey
This year, enhance your holiday table with a turkey dish, whether it’s a succulent roast, a delicate stuffing, or an innovative twist. With turkey, you're not only celebrating tradition but also choosing a healthy, nutrient-rich meat perfect for family meals. After all, each bite of turkey is not only a delight for the palate but also a tribute to centuries of history and tradition.