Thanksgiving is a time of joy, family gatherings, and of course, a delicious feast. Among all the traditional dishes, the turkey holds a special place on the Thanksgiving table. This year, why not give your turkey a unique and mouth - watering twist with the Honey Roast Turkey recipe that combines fresh herbs, honey, and apple cider for a tangy and sweet flavor profile.

Let's start with the ingredients. For the turkey, you'll need a fresh, high - quality bird. The size depends on the number of guests you're expecting. A general rule of thumb is about 1 - 1.5 pounds per person. In addition to the turkey, gather fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and sage. These herbs not only add a wonderful aroma but also contribute to the overall flavor of the dish. Honey, a natural sweetener, will give the turkey a lovely caramelized crust. Apple cider, on the other hand, adds a tangy and fruity note that cuts through the richness of the turkey.

Before you start cooking, prepare the turkey. First, thaw the turkey completely if it was frozen. Rinse it under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the seasonings adhere better to the turkey. Then, make a herb butter mixture. Take some softened butter and mix it with finely chopped fresh herbs. You can also add a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor. Rub this herb butter all over the turkey, including under the skin. This will infuse the turkey with the delicious herb flavor as it cooks.

Now, it's time to make the honey - apple cider glaze. In a small saucepan, combine equal parts of honey and apple cider. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it comes to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. This glaze will be brushed on the turkey during the cooking process to give it that beautiful, sticky, and sweet - tangy coating.

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the seasoned turkey in a roasting pan, breast - side up. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, making sure it doesn't touch the bone. Roast the turkey for about 15 - 20 minutes per pound. Baste the turkey with the honey - apple cider glaze every 30 minutes or so. This not only adds flavor but also helps keep the turkey moist.

As the turkey roasts, the house will be filled with the wonderful aroma of fresh herbs and sweet honey. When the meat thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) in the thigh and the juices run clear when you pierce the thickest part of the turkey, it's ready. Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for about 20 - 30 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more tender and juicy.

While the turkey is resting, you can start preparing the side dishes. Classic Thanksgiving sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green bean casserole pair perfectly with the Honey Roast Turkey. You can also make a gravy using the pan drippings. Simply pour the drippings into a saucepan, skim off the excess fat, and add some chicken or turkey broth. Bring it to a boil, then whisk in some flour or cornstarch to thicken it. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

When it's time to serve, carve the turkey into slices. The golden - brown, honey - glazed exterior gives way to tender, juicy meat inside. Each bite is a harmonious blend of the sweet honey, tangy apple cider, and the earthy flavors of the fresh herbs. Your guests will be impressed with this unique take on the traditional Thanksgiving turkey.

In conclusion, the Honey Roast Turkey with fresh herbs, honey, and apple cider is a recipe that combines the best of flavors. It's a great way to add a new dimension to your Thanksgiving feast. So, this year, step out of the ordinary and try this delicious recipe. Your family and friends will surely thank you for it.