Preparation
Ingredients
To prepare for making the Garbage Can Turkey recipe, it’s essential to have all the necessary ingredients and tools ready to go. First, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). While waiting for it to heat up, begin gathering and measuring out all the ingredients.
The list of ingredients required for this unique turkey dish is as follows:
- 1 whole turkey (you can use either fresh or frozen; just ensure it’s thawed before cooking)
- 1 cup of butter, melted
- 2 cups of dry breadcrumbs
- 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 cup of chopped bacon, crispy and crumbled (make sure it’s completely cooled before adding)
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh chives or scallions for garnish (optional)
- Make sure to have a large roasting pan or Dutch oven ready as well, as the turkey will be cooked in this.
1 whole turkey
To prepare a whole turkey for the Garbage Can Turkey Recipe, you’ll need to start with a few basic steps to ensure it’s properly seasoned and ready for cooking.
First, remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity, as these will not be used in the recipe. Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels to help prevent bacterial growth.
Next, combine your brine ingredients – including 1 cup of kosher salt, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1 gallon of water – in a large container. Stir until the salt and sugar are dissolved, then add any additional flavorings or aromatics you like (such as onion, garlic, or bay leaves).
Submerge the turkey in the brine, making sure it’s completely covered. If necessary, weigh down the bird with a plate or heavy object to keep it submerged.
Refrigerate the turkey for at least 24 hours and up to 48 hours to allow the brine to penetrate the meat.
Ahead of time:
- Mix together your dry rub ingredients – including paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (optional), thyme, and rosemary – in a small bowl. You can adjust these amounts to taste.
Before cooking the turkey, remove it from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels again. Then, rub the dry rub mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well. You can also add any additional seasonings or herbs you like.
The Garbage Can Turkey Recipe is best cooked in a smoker or grill with a temperature control system. If using a charcoal or gas grill, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly. For a whole turkey:
- Preheat your smoker or grill to 275-300°F (135-150°C). If you have a thermometer, make sure it’s accurate.
- Place the turkey in the smoker or grill, breast side up.
Cooking time will depend on the size of your turkey and the temperature of your smoker or grill. A good rule of thumb is to cook for about 20 minutes per pound, but you may need to adjust this based on your specific equipment and preferences.
2 cups of garbage can scraps (mix of vegetable, meat and bone fragments)
Preparation of this unique dish requires a thoughtful and meticulous approach to transform garbage can scraps into a savory meal.
Start by gathering approximately 2 cups of mixed vegetable, meat, and bone fragments from your garbage can. It’s essential to have a diverse range of ingredients at the beginning, so you may need to rummage through various trash bins to collect the required components.
The ideal mix should include a balance of vegetables like carrot tops, potato peels, onion scraps, and celery leaves; meats such as chicken bones, beef fat trimmings, or pork rinds; and a variety of other scraps like rice leftovers, bread crusts, or pasta fragments. Be sure to check the expiration dates and freshness levels of each component before proceeding.
Once you have collected all the necessary ingredients, carefully sort them into separate categories based on their composition and edibility. This may involve categorizing items as “safe for consumption,” “may be edible but questionable,” or “definitely inedible.”
Next, take each item that’s deemed safe for human consumption and give it a good rinse under cold running water to remove any visible debris or contaminants. Be gentle with fragile or delicate items like vegetables to avoid bruising or damage.
After cleaning the ingredients, chop them into smaller, manageable pieces using a sharp knife or kitchen shears. You may need to cut some items into smaller fragments, while others can be left whole or partially intact for added texture and visual appeal.
Now that your garbage can scraps are prepared, it’s time to begin cooking the Garbage Can Turkey Recipe! Transfer all the chopped ingredients to a large mixing bowl or pot, taking care not to overcrowd the container. Add any remaining liquids from the trash, such as meat juices or vegetable broth, and mix everything together until well combined.
Proceed with the rest of the recipe instructions for cooking your Garbage Can Turkey, but remember that due to the nature of the ingredients, this dish may be more suitable for adventurous eaters or those looking to push the boundaries of culinary experimentation!
1 cup of leftover bread
To prepare for the Garbage Can Turkey Recipe, you’ll need to start by preparing the ingredients that will make up a significant portion of this dish.
The first ingredient is leftover bread , and in particular, we’re looking at using about 1 cup of it. This could be any type of bread that has been leftover from another meal or snack.
This bread can be used as a base for the crunchy topping on your Garbage Can Turkey Recipe. To begin with, you’ll want to tear this bread into bite-sized pieces and spread it out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Next, place the baking sheet in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes or until the bread reaches your desired level of crispiness. This will depend on how long you prefer your crunchy topping to be – some people like it light and airy while others enjoy a crisper texture.
Once the bread has reached your preferred level of crunchiness, remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool completely before using it as part of the Garbage Can Turkey Recipe.
1/4 cup of rendered fat
When preparing for a delicious Garbage Can Turkey Recipe, it’s essential to start with high-quality ingredients, including 1/4 cup of rendered fat. Rendering fat involves heating it in a pan over low heat until it reaches its melting point and separates from any solids or impurities.
The choice of fat is crucial, as it will add flavor and texture to the dish. You can use beef tallow, pork drippings, or even duck fat for added depth of flavor. If you’re using store-bought fat, make sure it’s high-quality and has a good smoking point.
Once you have your rendered fat, let it cool slightly before adding it to the turkey recipe. You can also store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.
If you’re making your own fat from scratch, here’s a quick guide: take some beef or pork bones and roast them in a low oven (300°F) for about an hour. Then, let them cool and scoop off the solidified fat. Repeat this process until you have enough fat to use in your recipe.
It’s worth noting that using rendered fat adds a rich, savory flavor to your turkey dish that’s hard to replicate with other ingredients. The fatty acid content also helps to keep the meat moist and tender.
H4>Cooking Methods
The first step in preparing a delicious Garbage Can Turkey involves selecting a whole turkey that can accommodate the copious amounts of toppings and seasonings. The ideal turkey for this recipe should be around 12-14 pounds, as it will allow enough room to fit all the fixings without becoming too crowded.
Next, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While waiting for the oven to heat up, prepare the various toppings and seasonings that make up the “garbage can” part of this recipe.
Mix together one package of dried onion soup mix, two tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, and three cloves of minced garlic to create a savory base for your turkey. Set aside until later use.
Also, prepare your crumbled crackers by placing them in a plastic bag and using a rolling pin or a heavy object to crush them into fine crumbs. This will ensure they mix evenly with the other ingredients and stick well to the turkey’s surface.
Melt three tablespoons of butter and set it aside for later use as you continue preparing your turkey. Additionally, prepare your stuffing mixture by combining two cups of cubed bread, one cup of chopped celery, two cloves of minced garlic, one teaspoon of onion powder, one teaspoon of salt, and a half teaspoon of black pepper.
Once the turkey has reached room temperature, take it out of its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Next, stuff your prepared stuffing mixture into the turkey’s cavity, making sure not to pack it in too tightly as this can lead to uneven cooking times.
Finally, apply the dried onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic evenly all over the outside of the turkey. You can also sprinkle some extra chopped herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor, but this is optional.
Place your prepared Garbage Can Turkey in a roasting pan breast-side up, followed by adding some chicken broth to the bottom of the pan (about 1/4 cup). Make sure not to pour too much liquid into the pan as it can create steam during cooking and result in undercooked meat.
Brush your crushed crackers over the turkey’s surface, ensuring they adhere well to the dried onion soup mix. Sprinkle a pinch of salt for extra seasoning if desired.
Next, place your roasting pan into the preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit and roast the Garbage Can Turkey for approximately two hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165-170 degrees Fahrenheit. To ensure even cooking times, baste your turkey with melted butter every 30 minutes.
Once cooked through, carefully remove the pan from the oven and let it rest on a heat-safe surface for about 10-15 minutes before slicing into your delicious Garbage Can Turkey.
Roasting: Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for about 23 hours.
To prepare the perfect Garbage Can Turkey, it’s essential to pay attention to detail and follow a specific cooking process. Here are some guidelines for roasting your turkey:
Step 1: Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to a precise temperature of 325°F (165°C). This is crucial, as it will help you achieve a perfectly cooked and tender turkey.
Step 2: Roasting Time
This is where most people go wrong. The traditional roasting time for a turkey is around 20 minutes per pound at 325°F (165°C). However, when using the Garbage Can Recipe, you need to roast your turkey for approximately 23 hours. Yes, you read that right – 23 hours! This extended cooking time ensures that all the flavors and juices are fully infused into the meat.
Why 23 Hours?
You might be wondering why this unusual roasting time is necessary. The key to understanding this step lies in the chemistry behind slow cooking. The longer your turkey cooks, the more tender it becomes. This process breaks down connective tissues and fats, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s simply divine.
Tips for Perfect Roast
Here are some additional tips to ensure you get the perfect roast:
- Make sure your oven is calibrated correctly to achieve the precise temperature of 325°F (165°C).
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your turkey. It should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Don’t overcrowd the roasting pan, as this can lead to uneven cooking and a less tender finish.
The Result
A well-cooked Garbage Can Turkey should be moist, juicy, and full of flavor. The extended roasting time allows for an intense concentration of flavors that will leave you wanting more. When you take your first bite, the result is a tender, fall-apart texture that’s both savory and satisfying.
Conclusion
Preparation and patience are key when it comes to cooking the perfect Garbage Can Turkey. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to achieve the most mouth-watering, slow-cooked turkey of your life. Remember, good things take time – so don’t rush the process!
Main Course
Garbage Can Turkey Filling
Main course dishes are often the centerpiece of a meal, and for special occasions like Thanksgiving, families may prefer to prepare a traditional main course such as a roasted turkey. The Garbage Can Turkey Filling recipe can be used in place of some or all of the conventional ingredients found in a typical turkey filling.
Here is the list of ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (16 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Now, let’s walk through the steps to prepare this filling:
- Mix ground beef, onion, garlic, oregano, and black pepper in a large bowl.
- Add cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and chopped parsley. Stir until well combined.
Garbage Can Turkey Filling is used to stuff turkey but can also be baked separately as a side dish or served on sandwiches.
Combine the scraps, bread, and fat in a large bowl. Mix well until it reaches your desired consistency.
The main course, in this case, is the Garbage Can Turkey, a dish that defies conventional cooking methods and ingredients. To create this unusual turkey recipe, you will need to combine several unconventional elements.
The first step involves gathering the scraps of food that would normally be discarded, such as unwanted meat trimmings, old vegetables, and even stale bread. These scraps are then placed in a large bowl, where they will eventually become a key component of the turkey’s filling.
Alongside these scraps, you will also add the fat that has accumulated from cooking other meals or frying foods. This fat can come in the form of oil, bacon drippings, or even rendered lard. The goal is to incorporate a mix of healthy and unhealthy fats into the dish to give it depth and richness.
The bread element will be added to this mixture as well, often in the form of stale crackers, torn bread, or croutons. These carbohydrates serve as a binding agent, helping to hold all the disparate components together while adding bulk to the filling.
To achieve the desired consistency for your Garbage Can Turkey, mix all these elements well in the large bowl until they have reached an agreeable level of cohesiveness. Be cautious not to over-mix the ingredients, as this can lead to a tough or mushy texture that might detract from the overall flavor and presentation of the dish.
Once you’re satisfied with the consistency of your filling, it will be ready for use in the Garbage Can Turkey recipe. Proceed with cooking instructions carefully, taking into account the unique blend of flavors and textures that this unusual turkey represents.
Stuff the mixture loosely inside the turkey cavity.
To prepare the main course for the infamous Garbage Can Turkey Recipe, it’s time to stuff the mixture loosely inside the turkey cavity. This process involves carefully combining a variety of ingredients such as sausage, bacon, onion, bell pepper, celery, and seasonings, which are typically cooked in the garbage can until they reach a browned and caramelized state.
The next step is to prepare the turkey for stuffing by patting it dry with paper towels. This helps ensure that the skin of the turkey cooks evenly and prevents it from becoming soggy due to the moisture content of the ingredients being stuffed inside.
Take a handful of the cooked mixture and place it loosely into one end of the turkey cavity, making sure not to overfill it. You want to leave enough room for the filling to expand during cooking without bursting through the skin. Gently guide the stuffing into the cavity using your fingers or a spoon, taking care not to compact it too much.
Repeat this process several times until you have used up all of the remaining mixture, making sure that each portion is evenly distributed throughout the turkey’s cavity. You can use about half to three-quarters of the total amount of stuffing for each 12-15 pound whole turkey, depending on your personal preference and the size of the bird.
Once you have stuffed the turkey with the remaining mixture, make sure that the filling is even and not overflowing from the cavity. You can use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure any loose pieces of meat in place if needed.
With the stuffing securely inside the turkey, you’re now ready to proceed with cooking it according to your chosen method, whether it’s baking, grilling, or slow cooking in a rotisserie oven. Remember to always follow proper food safety guidelines when handling and preparing raw poultry.
Cooking Time
The main course for this recipe is indeed the star of the show – the turkey itself. In this case, we’re working with a whole turkey, and we’ll be guiding you through the process of cooking it to perfection.
When it comes to cooking time, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, the size and weight of your turkey will play a significant role in determining how long it needs to cook. A larger turkey will generally take longer to cook than a smaller one, so make sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly.
Another important factor is the internal temperature of the turkey. To ensure food safety, it’s crucial that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C). This means inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast and the innermost part of the thigh, avoiding any bones or fat.
As for the actual cooking time, here are some general guidelines to follow:
For a whole turkey weighing between 4-8 pounds (1.8-3.6 kg), plan on cooking it at 325°F (165°C) for about 2-3 hours.
For a whole turkey weighing between 8-12 pounds (3.6-5.4 kg), plan on cooking it at 325°F (165°C) for about 3-3 1/2 hours.
For a whole turkey weighing over 12 pounds (5.4 kg), plan on cooking it at 325°F (165°C) for about 3 1/2 to 4 hours.
Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines, and the actual cooking time may vary depending on your specific oven and the turkey itself. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and check the internal temperature frequently to ensure food safety.
Once you’ve reached the desired internal temperature, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat even more tender and flavorful.
Baste the turkey with pan drippings every 30 minutes to prevent drying.
- The key to a perfectly cooked turkey is to ensure it remains moist and juicy throughout the cooking process.
- To achieve this, one must baste the turkey with pan drippings every 30 minutes to prevent drying out.
- This simple yet crucial step involves spooning the juices that collect at the bottom of the roasting pan over the turkey to keep it consistently moist and flavorful.
- The process begins by allowing the turkey to roast for a specified amount of time, usually around 30 minutes or so.
- During this initial period, the turkey develops its own set of juices that collect in the roasting pan.
- These juices are rich in flavor and contain essential oils that help to keep the meat tender and juicy.
- The next step involves removing the roasting pan from the oven and gently spooning these accumulated juices over the surface of the turkey.
- This process, known as basting, is repeated every 30 minutes or so to ensure that the turkey continues to retain its moisture and flavor.
- It’s essential not to overcrowd the roasting pan, allowing enough space between each portion of the turkey for even cooking and distribution of juices.
- This simple yet effective technique will help to yield a perfectly cooked Main Course, with the added benefit of being extremely tender and full of flavor.
Finishing Touches
Serving Suggestions
- Finishing touches refer to the final steps that can elevate the presentation and flavor of a dish, such as garnishes or sauces.
- In the case of the Garbage Can Turkey Recipe, some potential finishing touches could include serving the turkey with a homemade gravy made from the pan drippings and a bit of flour.
- Alternatively, a tangy cranberry sauce or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can add a burst of flavor and color to the dish.
- Serving suggestions for Garbage Can Turkey would depend on personal preferences and the occasion, but some ideas could include:
- Serving with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting and filling meal.
- Pairing with a side salad or steamed broccoli for a lighter and more balanced option.
- Offering a variety of toppings or condiments, such as mustard or relish, to let each guest customize their serving.
- Serving at a holiday gathering or special occasion, like Thanksgiving or Christmas, and using the turkey as a centerpiece or main attraction.
- Getting creative with the presentation by carving the turkey into a decorative shape or arranging the slices in a visually appealing pattern on a platter or buffet table.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and edible flowers.
The finishing touches on a dish can elevate it from ordinary to extraordinary, and the same is true for our Garbage Can Turkey Recipe.
To serve this delicious and unique turkey, start by letting it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving.
This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it tender and moist. While the turkey is resting, prepare your garnishes.
Fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley add a burst of flavor and fragrance to the dish, while edible flowers like violas or pansies provide a pop of color and whimsy.
Select the freshest herbs you can find and gently wash them in cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
For edible flowers, choose ones that are free of pesticides and have not been sprayed with any chemicals. Gently rinse them in cold water, pat dry, and trim off any stems or leaves that may be wilted.
To assemble the dish, slice the rested turkey into thin slices or carve it into smaller portions if preferred. Place the sliced turkey on a serving platter or individual plates.
Arrange the fresh herbs around the turkey in a decorative pattern, making sure not to overcrowd the plate. You can also sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs on top of the turkey for added flavor and color.
Finally, place one or two edible flowers on each plate, depending on their size and shape. This adds a touch of whimsy and makes the dish look like it was made by a professional.
The finishing touches are complete, and your Garbage Can Turkey Recipe is now ready to be served!
Consider adding a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
The final touches to our Garbage Can Turkey recipe add a delightful and mouth-watering finish to this already delectable dish.
Fancy Up Your Finishing Touches
Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
- Boil 3-4 large potatoes until tender, then drain and mash with a splash of milk.
- Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Optional: stir in some grated cheddar cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Roasted Vegetables:
- Select your favorite vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any other herbs of choice (e.g. thyme, rosemary).
- Toss to coat evenly and roast in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
Additional Finishing Touches:
Crispy Shallots:
- Thinly slice shallots and separate into individual rings.
- Dredge in all-purpose flour, shaking off excess.
- Fry in hot oil until crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
Creamy Gravy:
- Melt butter or use a store-bought gravy mix as the base.
- Add flour to create a roux, then whisk in milk and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and let it thicken while you finish preparing your turkey.
Turkey Glaze:
- Mix equal parts of honey and Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon each).
- Add in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and mix until smooth.
- Brush the glaze all over your turkey during its last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
- Some additional suggestions for enhancing your Garbage Can Turkey experience include:
- Try using different herbs or spices in place of salt and pepper to create unique flavor combinations.
- Add some sliced onions or bell peppers to the turkey cavity for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Create a homemade herb butter by mixing softened butter with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, or thyme.
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