Rotisserie Turkey

Rita~'s Note:

To properly grill a turkey using a rotisserie the unit must be positioned so the heat source is never directly under the bird. The indirect heat will allow the interior portions of the meat to cook thoroughly before the exterior becomes overdone. Preheating must be done before rotisserie grilling your turkey. A 12 to 14 pound bird is the maximum weight that can be accommodated on a standard rotisserie unit. The turkey must be attached securely to the spit assembly making sure it does not slip on the spit as the rotisserie rotates. The turkey must be trussed properly so the wing and legs don't get caught as it turns. The turkey must be balanced on the rotisserie unit for if not it will not turn and burn out the motor. A turkey intended for rotisserie grilling can not be bread stuffed. The slower cooking time may not kill harmful bacteria as rapidly as with oven roasting. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer before removing the turkey from the heat source.

• Total Time: 3 hrs 30 mins
• Prep Time: 30 mins
• Cook Time: 3 hrs

Ingredients:

Servings: 12

• 1 -12 lb whole turkey, rinsed and towel dried

Seasoning

• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 tablespoons dried parsley
• 2 tablespoons dried rosemary
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon sage
• 1 teaspoon paprika

Turkey Stuffing

• 1 medium onion (cut into 8 equal parts)
• 1 apple (cored cut into 8 thick slices)

Pan Liquids

• 2 cups beer (water or juce)

Directions:

1. Mix together seasonings and rub inside and on the surface of cleaned and dried turkey. Can be done the night before to let the seasoning permeate the meat.
2. Stuff turkey with the apple and onion and place securely on rotisserie skewer.
3. Slide one pair of prongs onto the spit and then push the spit and prongs into the turkey. Slide the other set of prongs on the opposite side of the spit and insert the prongs into the turkey.
4. Tighten the wing nuts to keep the turkey firmly in place on the spit.
5. Now truss the turkey. Tie the ends of the legs together with string.
6. Tie a string close around the turkey at the meaty part of the legs to keep them close to the body.
7. Again tie a string around the wings and breast section of the bird to prevent them from flopping about as the rotisserie rotates.
8. Preheat the grill by setting all of the burners on high for a few minutes.
9. The spit is then attached to the brackets of the rotisserie assembly. One end of the spit slides into the motor unit.
10. Start the motor and observe the rotation to ensure that the spit is balanced and there are no obstructions.
11. Place the drip pan under the turkey a size larger then the turkey to prevent flare ups.
12. Place liquids in drip pan.
13. The lid of the grill should be lowered and remain closed to ensure even roasting. But do check quickly that it is rotating. Adjust if needed. About 10 to 15 minutes cooking time per pound, which means that a 14 pound turkey may require 2 to 4 hours on the rotisserie.
14. DON`T rely on time estimates to determine proper doneness. Always use a meat thermometer to be sure it is done.
15. The internal temperature of the turkey for the breast meat must reach an internal temperature of 170ºF and the thigh meat must reach an internal temperature of 180ºF.
16. Carefully remove the spit from the grill with oven mitts. Remove the spit from the turkey. Cover the turkey with foil and allow it to rest for a few minutes before carving.

Reviews

[MorMor Chef #583296]

DH has made this many times.Such a delicious change from oven roasted. I use Greek seasoning, and rub olive oil generously on skin, do not stuff with anything, It can be a little dry, but usually so tender with great flavor. Very very important to balance the bird. Nice to free up the oven for other side dishes!

[Chef #692286]

Excellent, Juicy, Moist! Only issue: my 9 1/2 lb turkey took 4 hours to cook, at 15 minutes per pound I and guest expected turkey in 2 1/2 hours.