Thanksgiving in a Filipino household is more than just a meal; it’s a beautiful blend of tradition, family, and, of course, incredible food! Growing up, I always looked forward to the festivities, where the aroma of roasted turkey mingled with the sweet scent of calamansi juice and garlic wafted through the air. This *Filipino Thanksgiving food* isn’t just about the turkey – it’s about bringing everyone together, sharing laughter, and creating memories around the table. I remember my lola (grandmother) meticulously preparing her special marinade, making sure each turkey was bursting with flavor. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like that juicy, tender turkey, and I can’t wait to share this recipe with you. It’s a must-try for anyone wanting to add a touch of Filipino flair to their holiday celebrations!
Ingredients List
- 1 whole turkey (10-12 lbs) – Make sure it’s thawed completely before starting your prep!
- 1 cup soy sauce – This brings that savory umami flavor we all love.
- 1 cup calamansi juice – If you can’t find calamansi, you can use lime or lemon juice as a substitute, but trust me, calamansi gives it a unique zing!
- 1/2 cup brown sugar – This adds a touch of sweetness that balances the saltiness of the soy sauce.
- 1/4 cup garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic flavor.
- 1 onion, chopped – This brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the marinade.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil – Helps to keep the turkey moist while roasting.
- 1/2 cup water – This is for the roasting pan to keep the turkey juicy.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season properly for the best results!
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important to ensure your turkey cooks evenly!
- While the oven is warming up, grab a mixing bowl. Combine the soy sauce, calamansi juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, and chopped onion. Stir it well until the sugar dissolves. This is going to be the magic marinade!
- Now, take that beautiful turkey and rub the marinade all over it. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies for maximum flavor! I like to use my hands here, but you can also use a brush if you prefer.
- Next, place the marinated turkey in a roasting pan and pour in the water. This will help keep the turkey juicy while it roasts.
- Cover the pan with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven. Roast for about 2 hours, but don’t wander too far—check on it occasionally!
- After 2 hours, carefully remove the foil. This helps the skin get that gorgeous golden brown color. Keep roasting for another hour, basting the turkey with the pan juices every 15-20 minutes.
- Now, here’s the crucial part: check if the turkey is cooked through by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once it’s done, let it rest for about 20-30 minutes before carving. This helps the juices settle, making every slice super tender!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique flavors: The combination of soy sauce and calamansi juice creates a deliciously tangy and savory profile that’s unlike any traditional turkey you’ve tasted.
- Easy preparation: With just a few simple steps and minimal effort, you can whip up a show-stopping centerpiece for your Thanksgiving feast!
- Family-friendly dish: This turkey is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for gatherings of all ages.
- Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s a small family dinner or a big holiday party, this dish is designed to feed a crowd, bringing everyone together around the table.
- Versatile with side dishes: Pair it with rice, vegetables, or your favorite Filipino sides like lumpia and pancit for a full spread that’s bursting with flavor!
Tips for Success
To really elevate this dish, I highly recommend marinating the turkey overnight if you can. This allows all those flavors to soak in deeply, making every bite utterly delicious! If you’re short on time, even a couple of hours will make a difference, but overnight is best. Also, don’t be shy with the seasoning—taste the marinade before you rub it on the turkey! You can adjust the salt or sugar based on your preference. Another tip is to use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness; it takes the guesswork out of roasting! Lastly, let the turkey rest after cooking—this is key for juicy meat, so resist the urge to carve it right away!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to mix things up with this Filipino Thanksgiving turkey! For a sweeter twist, try adding pineapple juice to your marinade instead of calamansi. It brings a delightful tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory notes. Want to spice things up? Incorporate some chili flakes or fresh ginger into the marinade for a little kick!
As for cooking methods, if you have a grill, you can roast the turkey over indirect heat. Just make sure to keep it covered to maintain moisture. Or, for a quicker option, cut the turkey into pieces and roast them separately; this not only speeds up cooking time but allows for even browning! Whatever you choose, these variations will keep your Thanksgiving feast exciting and full of flavor!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying this delicious Filipino Thanksgiving turkey, it’s good to know what you’re getting! Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving (about 1 slice):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the size of the turkey and any added ingredients. Enjoy every flavorful bite guilt-free!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After your feast, you’ll probably have some delicious leftovers that you’ll want to savor! To store your leftover turkey, make sure it cools down to room temperature first. Then, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to slice the turkey before freezing; it’ll make reheating so much easier later on.
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, here’s how to reheat them without losing that juicy flavor. You can use the oven by preheating it to 325°F (160°C), placing the turkey in a baking dish, and covering it with foil to keep it moist. Heat it for about 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for a quicker option, just be careful not to overdo it—nobody likes dry turkey! Enjoy every tasty bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of meat instead of turkey?
Absolutely! While turkey is traditional for Filipino Thanksgiving food, you can substitute it with chicken or even pork if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as smaller meats will cook faster!
What if I can’t find calamansi?
No worries! If calamansi is hard to find, lime or lemon juice works well as a substitute. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!
Is this recipe suitable for a large gathering?
You bet! This roasted turkey recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd. If you need more servings, simply adjust the quantities or cook multiple turkeys!
Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
Yes, you can absolutely make the marinade a day or two in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it, which makes for a quick prep on Thanksgiving Day!
How do I know when the turkey is done?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer! Make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the meat. This guarantees a safe and perfectly cooked turkey!
Filipino Thanksgiving Food: 7 Reasons You’ll Love This Feast
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
A traditional Filipino dish served during Thanksgiving celebrations.
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (10–12 lbs)
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup calamansi juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, calamansi juice, brown sugar, garlic, and onion.
- Rub the mixture all over the turkey.
- Place the turkey in a roasting pan and add water.
- Cover with foil and roast for 2 hours.
- Remove the foil and roast for another hour, basting occasionally.
- Check if the turkey is cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F).
- Let it rest before carving and serving.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste.
- Pair with traditional sides like rice and vegetables.
- Can marinate the turkey overnight for better flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Filipino
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Filipino Thanksgiving food, roasted turkey, holiday recipes
