As the aroma swirls through the kitchen, I’m transported to festive celebrations filled with laughter and joy. This Mexican Turkey recipe, known as Pavo Navideño, isn’t just a dish; it’s a heartfelt tradition that brings families together every holiday season. Juicy and succulent, this turkey is generously coated in a rich adobo sauce that offers a delightful balance of flavors—smoky, spicy, and blissfully aromatic. Imagine serving this vibrant centerpiece at your next holiday gathering, where it effortlessly wows guests while being gluten-free and surprisingly easy to prepare! With minimal fuss, you can create a memorable feast that satisfies everyone’s cravings for home-cooked goodness. Are you ready to elevate your holiday cooking? Let’s dive into making this extraordinary Mexican turkey! Why is Mexican Turkey a Must-Try? Tradition Meets Flavor: This Mexican Turkey recipe embodies a cherished holiday tradition that celebrates togetherness. Aromatic Appeal: The rich adobo sauce, with its vibrant spices and smoky undertones, transforms your turkey into a show-stopping dish. Easy Preparation: Despite its impressive presentation, this recipe is surprisingly simple, ensuring you spend more time with family and less time in the kitchen. Gluten-Free Delight: Perfect for anyone mindful of dietary restrictions, it offers a delicious holiday option without compromising on flavor. Versatile Serving: Pair it with delightful sides like Mexican Street Corn or papas gratinadas, and create a festive feast everyone will adore! Mexican Turkey Ingredients For the Turkey • Turkey (1-10 lb) – Ensure it’s fully defrosted and giblets are removed for a well-prepared roast. • Butter (½ cup, melted) – Adds moisture and richness, elevating the turkey’s flavors. • Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings for enhancing overall taste. For the Adobo Sauce • Guajillo peppers (10) – Core flavor component for adobo sauce; substitute with anchos if desired. • Chipotle in adobo (2) – Delivers smokiness and heat; adjust based on your spice preference. • Garlic cloves (3) – Adds depth of flavor to the adobo sauce. • Vinegar (¼ cup) – Aids in balancing flavors; can substitute with lime juice for a tangy twist. • Orange juice (¼ cup) – Provides a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the spices. • Cumin seeds (¼ tsp) – Offers warm, earthy tones to the sauce. • Black peppercorns (½ tsp) – For seasoning with an extra kick. • Oregano (½ Tbsp) – Adds a delightful herbaceous note to the adobo. • Cinnamon (½ stick) – Imparts a hint of warmth and sweetness to the sauce. • Achiote paste (1 Tbsp) or paprika (1 ½ Tbsp) – Used for color and flavor enhancement. For Stuffing and Flavor • Garlic (1 large head, halved) – Provides aromatic depth; can use garlic powder if unavailable. • Fresh herbs (1 bunch, rosemary, sage, thyme) – Enhance the flavor profile; use dried herbs if fresh is not available. • Orange (1, cut into wedges) – Adds freshness and acidity, complementing the rich flavors. • Lemon (1, cut into wedges) – Balances flavors with its acidity. • Chicken stock (1 cup) – Keeps the turkey moist during cooking. Celebrate with this delicious Mexican Turkey recipe that promises to be the star of your holiday table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Turkey Step 1: Prepare the Adobo Sauce Begin by cleaning the guajillo peppers—remove their stems, seeds, and membranes. Soak them in hot water for about 10 minutes until softened. Blend these chilies with chipotle, garlic, vinegar, orange juice, black peppercorns, cumin, oregano, cinnamon, achiote paste, and salt until smooth. Strain this vibrant adobo sauce and set it aside to allow the flavors to meld. Step 2: Prepare the Turkey Generously season your fully defrosted turkey with salt and pepper, ensuring every inch is covered. In a bowl, mix melted butter with two-thirds of the adobo sauce, setting the remaining third aside for later. Loosen the turkey skin and rub the adobo butter mixture all over and beneath it, infusing flavor directly into the meat. Stuff the cavity with lemon and orange wedges, halved garlic, and fresh herbs. Finally, tie the legs together and tuck the wings for an elegant presentation. Step 3: Roast the Turkey Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C) to create the perfect roasting environment. In a deep roasting pan, pour in the chicken stock and add additional garlic and herbs. Place the turkey on a rack above the stock, cover it loosely with foil, and roast for 1 hour. This initial roasting helps lock in moisture and flavor. Step 4: Glaze the Turkey After 1 hour, carefully remove the foil and brush the reserved adobo sauce all over the turkey. This step adds a beautiful glaze and enhances the rich, smoky flavor of your Mexican turkey. Cover the turkey again and continue roasting for an additional hour or until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), checking periodically. Step 5: Let it Rest Once fully cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes before carving. This crucial resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is tender and juicy. Meanwhile, consider investing this time into preparing your favorite sides to accompany your stunning Mexican turkey. What to Serve with Mexican Turkey Recipe? Imagine a warm, bustling table where every dish beautifully complements the festive essence of your delicious menu. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These velvety potatoes create a comforting balance to the spiced turkey, soaking up all the delicious juices. Mexican Street Corn: A sweet and smoky side that adds crunch and flavor, it perfectly boosts the adobo’s warmth while offering a refreshing contrast. Papas Gratinadas: These cheesy and crispy potato gratins bring a creamy texture that enriches the holiday feast, delighting every guest. Black Bean Salad: A zesty salad with fresh cilantro and lime, it adds bright, vibrant flavors that play beautifully against the turkey’s richness. Corn Tortillas: Serve warm, homemade tortillas for scooping up turkey bites, enhancing the traditional Mexican experience while adding delightful texture. Citrus-Infused Rice: Light and fragrant, this side, infused with orange and lemon, complements the turkey’s smokiness, creating a balanced plate. Margaritas: For a refreshing drink, serve these tangy cocktails that echo the flavors of the turkey and add a festive sparkle to your gathering. Churros with Chocolate Sauce: End your meal with these warm, sugary treats paired with rich chocolate, a perfect sweet note to the savory feast. How to Store and Freeze Mexican Turkey Fridge: Store leftover Mexican turkey in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: If you wish to keep your turkey longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months while preserving its juicy flavor. Reheating: When ready to enjoy your turkey again, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, regularly basting with residual juices for moisture. Slicing Tip: For best results, slice only what you need, and keep remaining pieces whole in the fridge or freezer to maintain juiciness and avoid drying out. Mexican Turkey Variations & Substitutions Feel free to explore these delightful variations and substitutions that will personalize your Mexican Turkey experience! Chicken Option: Use a whole chicken instead of turkey for a quicker roast. Adjust roasting time to about 1-1.5 hours. Gluten-Free Gravy: Replace traditional flour with cornstarch when making gravy from the pan drippings to keep it gluten-free. Spicy Twist: Incorporate diced jalapeños into the adobo sauce for an added kick of heat that packs a flavorful punch. Herb Swap: Use fresh thyme or parsley instead of rosemary for a different herbal note that brightens your dish. Sweet Accent: Add a touch of brown sugar or honey to the adobo sauce for a hint of sweetness that complements the spices beautifully. Veggie Infusion: Throw in some carrots and onions around the turkey in the roasting pan for added flavor and a nutritious side dish. Smoky Flavor Upgrade: Enhance the smokiness by using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika in the adobo sauce. Slow Cooker Variation: For a hands-off option, cook your seasoned turkey in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours, ensuring a moist and tender result. Take a look at my delicious recipes for Mexican Rotisserie Chicken or even a flavorful dish like Mexican Street Corn for more inspiration on how to incorporate these variations into your festive cooking! Expert Tips for Mexican Turkey • Room Temperature Turkey: Allow your turkey to come to room temperature before roasting to ensure even cooking throughout the meat. • Stay on Time: Roast the turkey for about 13-15 minutes per pound; this helps achieve the perfect doneness without drying out your Mexican turkey. • Use a Meat Thermometer: Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer inserted in the thickest part; aim for 165°F (75°C) for safe, juicy meat. • Save Those Juices: Don’t forget to reserve the cooking juices! They’re perfect for making rich gravy or adding flavor to soups. • Flavor Infusion: For extra flavor, rub the adobo butter mixture under the skin and allow it to marinate for a few hours or overnight for maximum impact. Make Ahead Options Preparing this Mexican Turkey (Pavo Navideño) in advance is a brilliant way to streamline your holiday cooking! You can make the adobo sauce up to 3 days prior; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can season the turkey and apply the adobo butter mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully—just remember to refrigerate it tightly covered to maintain its quality. On the day you’re ready to roast, let the turkey sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven to ensure even cooking. By prepping ahead, you’ll find that your Mexican Turkey is just as delicious, saving you precious time on festive occasions! Mexican Turkey Recipe FAQs What should I look for in a turkey for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting a turkey, ensure it’s completely defrosted and the giblets are removed. Look for a turkey that feels firm and has no dark spots. A fresh, high-quality turkey will significantly enhance your Pavo Navideño. How should I store leftovers after cooking my Mexican turkey? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow the turkey to cool completely before sealing the container to keep it fresh and tasty. Can I freeze Mexican turkey, and if so, how? Yes, you can freeze your Mexican turkey! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Properly stored, it can stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat it at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for the best results. What should I do if my turkey is browning too quickly? Very! If you notice that the turkey skin is browning too fast during roasting, simply cover the bird loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. This will allow it to cook thoroughly without burning the skin. Is this Mexican turkey recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! The Pavo Navideño recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken stock and ensure that all seasonings and ingredients are free from gluten-containing additives. It’s an excellent option for anyone looking to avoid gluten while enjoying a festive meal! How can I ensure my turkey stays moist while cooking? One key tip is to let the turkey rest at room temperature before roasting, as this ensures even cooking. Additionally, regularly baste the turkey with its own juices and the reserved adobo sauce for moisture throughout the cooking process. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly juicy meat! Savor the Festive Flavors of Mexican Turkey for Your Table This Mexican Turkey recipe, known as Pavo Navideño, is a festive tradition that brings families together during the holidays. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 2 hours hrsResting Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 3 hours hrs Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DinnerCuisine: MexicanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Turkey and Preparation1 whole Turkey 1-10 lb, ensure fully defrosted and giblets removed0.5 cup Butter melted, adds moistureSalt essential seasoningPepper essential seasoningAdobo Sauce10 pieces Guajillo peppers core flavor component, substitute with anchos if desired2 pieces Chipotle in adobo adds smokiness and heat3 cloves Garlic adds depth of flavor0.25 cup Vinegar balances flavors, can substitute with lime juice0.25 cup Orange juice sweet and tangy flavor0.25 tsp Cumin seeds offers warm, earthy tones0.5 tsp Black peppercorns for seasoning0.5 Tbsp Oregano herbaceous note0.5 stick Cinnamon imparts warmth and sweetness1 Tbsp Achiote paste for color and flavor enhancement1.5 Tbsp Paprika alternative to achiote pasteStuffing Ingredients1 large head Garlic halved, can use garlic powder if unavailable1 bunch Fresh herbs rosemary, sage, thyme; use dried if fresh is unavailable1 Orange cut into wedges1 Lemon cut into wedges1 cup Chicken stock keeps turkey moist Equipment roasting panblenderMeat Thermometer Method Preparation StepsClean the guajillo peppers—remove stems, seeds, and membranes. Soak in hot water for 10 minutes until softened. Blend with chipotle, garlic, vinegar, orange juice, black peppercorns, cumin, oregano, cinnamon, achiote paste, and salt until smooth. Strain the adobo sauce and set aside.Season the defrosted turkey with salt and pepper. In a bowl, mix melted butter with two-thirds of the adobo sauce. Rub the mixture all over and beneath the turkey skin. Stuff the cavity with lemon, orange wedges, halved garlic, and fresh herbs.Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C). In a roasting pan, add chicken stock and additional garlic and herbs. Place the turkey on a rack above the stock, cover loosely with foil, and roast for 1 hour.After 1 hour, remove the foil and brush the reserved adobo sauce all over the turkey. Continue roasting for an additional hour or until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 50gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg NotesAllow turkey to come to room temperature before roasting for even cooking. Roast for 13-15 minutes per pound. Use a meat thermometer for safe cooking and reserve cooking juices for gravy. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
