Oven Roasted Turkey (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 12 pounds frozen turkey, fully thawed.
02 - 4 tablespoons black pepper.
03 - 1/4 cup coarse salt.
04 - 1 tablespoon garlic powder.
05 - 1 tablespoon dark sugar.
06 - 1 tablespoon baking powder.
07 - 2 teaspoons smoked paprika.
08 - 2 teaspoons dried thyme.
09 - 2 teaspoons onion powder.
10 - 1 whole head garlic, cut in half.
11 - 1 small onion or shallot, cut into wedges.
12 - 1 lemon, sliced into quarters.
13 - 1 bunch of thyme, fresh.
14 - 1 bunch of sage, fresh.
15 - 1/4 cup mild-flavored cooking oil.

# Instructions:

01 - Cover roasting pan with foil, add the rack, and pat turkey until completely dry.
02 - Use a sharp knife to gently cut and take out the wishbone, working along both edges carefully.
03 - Blend all the dry spices together until they’re evenly dispersed.
04 - Rub turkey generously, making sure to get under the skin and inside the cavity.
05 - Keep the turkey uncovered in the fridge for 1 to 2 days.
06 - Set the oven rack in the lower third, and preheat to 450°F.
07 - Fill the cavity with lemon, onion, garlic, and herbs for fragrance.
08 - Brush turkey with oil and put in a probe thermometer.
09 - Place in oven at 450°F for the first 30 minutes, then lower the heat to 350°F.
10 - Continue until turkey’s breast registers 155°F and the thigh reaches 165°F.
11 - Leave uncovered for 45 minutes to cool before slicing.

# Notes:

01 - Allow enough time to thaw beforehand.
02 - Dry the turkey well for crispier skin.
03 - Avoid overcrowding the cavity.
04 - Keep an eye on internal temperature.