Turkey Breast Rub

The cornerstone of any great turkey dish is its rub. While traditional spices offer a familiar taste, the introduction of fresh rosemary and sage will elevate the flavor profile, making it both familiar and novel.

Slow-Cooking Turkey Breast

Using a slow cooker ensures the turkey is cooked evenly, retaining its juices and absorbing the flavors of the rub. The consistent low temperature breaks down the fibers, ensuring a melt-in-the-mouth experience.

Broiling Turkey Breast

Post slow-cooking, a broil will give the turkey that coveted crispy skin. This step is crucial as it offers a textural contrast, making every bite a delightful play of tender meat and crispy skin.

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 lb. boneless turkey breast
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt (adjust based on turkey type)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped

Instructions:

1. Preparation: Begin by patting the turkey breast dry using paper towels. This ensures the rub adheres better.
2. Crafting the Rub: In a bowl, combine the softened butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, paprika, turmeric, rosemary, and sage. Mix until it forms a consistent paste.
3. Layering Flavors: Spread a bit of the rub at the bottom of the slow cooker and layer with the sliced onions. This creates a flavorful bed for the turkey to rest on.
4. Rub Application: Generously apply the rub onto the turkey, ensuring you get under the skin and on all sides.
5. Slow Cooking: Place the turkey in the slow cooker, ensuring it rests on the onion bed. Cook on low for 4 hours.
6. Broiling: Once cooked, transfer the turkey to a baking tray. Broil in a preheated oven for 5-10 minutes or until the skin crisps to your liking.
7. Rest and Serve: Allow the turkey to rest for 20 minutes before slicing. This ensures the juices are redistributed, resulting in a moist turkey.

For the Gravy:

1. Drippings: Strain the drippings from the slow cooker into a pot.
2. Roux Creation: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the pot. Add 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk continuously to form a roux.
3. Gravy Formation: Gradually pour in the drippings, whisking continuously until the gravy thickens.

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Possible Variations for the Slow-Cooked Turkey Breast

1. Citrus Infusion: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the rub for a refreshing citrus undertone. You can also place a few slices of the citrus fruit at the bottom of the slow cooker for a subtle infusion of flavor.
2. Spicy Kick: For those who like a bit of warmth, consider adding 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the rub.
3. Herb Delight: Swap out rosemary or sage for other fresh herbs like tarragon, marjoram, or cilantro. Each herb will give the turkey a distinct flavor profile.
4. Sweet Touch: Introduce a sweet touch by adding one tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to the rub. This will give the turkey a satisfying sweet-savory balance.
5. Garlic Lovers: For a more pronounced garlic flavor, add 3-4 cloves of minced fresh garlic to the seasoning rub in addition to the garlic powder.
6. Mediterranean Twist: Mix 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin and a sprinkle of za’atar to the rub for a Mediterranean flair.
7. Asian Inspiration: Add one tablespoon of soy sauce and one teaspoon of five-spice powder to the rub for an Asian-inspired turkey dish.
8. Creamy Gravy: For a richer gravy, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to the drippings when making the gravy.

Remember, the beauty of cooking lies in experimentation. Feel free to mix and match these variations or come up with your own to create a turkey dish that’s uniquely yours!