10/12/2026
How do you celebrate your Thanksgiving? We hope it’s a time to share with others.
Thanksgiving turkey can be an opportunity to express yourself. Whether you want crackling skin, campfire character, lightning-fast drama, or a never ending tradition there is a bird for the occasion.
1. Smoked Turkey: The Backyard Showstopper
Smoking gives turkey a deep, woodsy flavour and a burnished mahogany finish. Apple or cherry wood keeps things mellow and slightly sweet, while hickory brings a bolder barbecue swagger. A dry brine helps the meat stay juicy and the skin crisp, and herb butter tucked under the skin adds a rich holiday note. The reward is a turkey that arrives smelling as though autumn itself learned to cook.
2. Deep-Fried Turkey: The Crispy Speedster
Weirdly enough this is always popular with the Low n' Slow crowd. A properly deep-fried turkey is famously juicy inside and outrageously crisp outside. It cooks quickly and delivers maximum “wow” when carved—but this method demands serious caution. Use purpose-built equipment exactly as directed, outdoors and well away from buildings, on a stable surface; the turkey must be completely thawed and dry. Never leave hot oil unattended, and keep kids and pets far from the cooking area.
3. Classic Roast Turkey: The Holiday Headliner
Roasting is the traditional route for a reason: golden skin, savoury pan drippings, and an oven full of comforting aromas. Dry-brine the bird ahead of time, rub it with herb butter, and surround it with onion, carrot, celery, garlic, and citrus. Then bring on the full parade of trimmings—sage stuffing or dressing, roast potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, glazed carrots, green beans, and fluffy dinner rolls. Use a food thermometer and cook the turkey to a safe temperature rather than relying on colour or guesswork.
4. Spatchcocked Turkey: The Clever Crowd-Pleaser
Removing the backbone and flattening the turkey may not win a beauty contest before cooking, but it helps the bird roast faster and more evenly. More skin faces the heat, so more skin becomes crisp—a mathematical triumph everyone can support.
5. Turkey Roulade or Crown: The Elegant Option
For a smaller gathering, a rolled turkey breast or bone-in turkey crown offers tidy slices, easier carving, and plenty of room for creative fillings such as herbs, mushrooms, or dried fruit. It is less theatrical than presenting a whole bird, but far more relaxed when dinner guests are already circling the kitchen.
And Our Favourite?
OK. We do have a bias. Smoked turkey wins by a whisker. It has the drama of an outdoor cook, wood smoke, and leftovers that make spectacular sandwiches.
Do it Your Way. Enjoy your feast, family and friends.
