Celebrity chef Nigella Lawson has shared her unique method for preparing Christmas turkey, and she is "utterly convinced" by it. Lawson, known for her eloquent cooking shows and indulgent recipes, revealed how she manages to keep her brined turkey safe as it relishes outside for several days.
According to Lawson, utilizing her son’s skateboard plays a pivotal role in her approach, as it helps deter any pesky foxes from invading her precious turkey stash. "Before I had a garden, I put mine by an open window in the kitchen," she recounted humorously during her newsletter. She acknowledges the discomfort such arrangements might cause her family—"It does mean everyone freezes, but who am I going to put first — my turkey or my family?"
For those fortunate enough to have gardens, she assures them they can replicate her method effectively. "Out in the garden if you’re lucky enough to have one would also be fine, though the pan must be securely covered. If I’ve got a bucket or bin out in the open, I cover it twice with foil and then put my son’s skateboard on top to prevent foxy foraging," Lawson advised.
Her approach doesn't stop at simply leaving the turkey outside; her recipe, titled Spiced And Superjuicy Roast Turkey, calls for submerging the bird in a salty brine infused with subtle spices for "up to a day or two." This extended soaking significantly tenderizes the meat and enhances flavors, making for the ultimate festive feast.
Lawson elaborated on the aesthetic appeal of her brining method: "And, though you might find it hard to believe sight unseen, a raw turkey covered in brine — with its oranges, cinnamon sticks, and scattering of spices — looks so beautiful as it steeps." She encourages her followers to be convinced of this transformative process, stating, "You have only to try this method to be utterly convinced."
Having first gained popularity with her book How To Eat back in 1998, Lawson continued to captivate audiences through her television programs and subsequent publications, including 2020’s Cook, Eat, Repeat. Over the years, she has amassed devoted fans who have taken to social media to express their own unique Christmas cooking experiences inspired by her.
Reflecting on those moments, one fan humorously remarked, "Kindred! Those of us who spend Christmas at the family council flat have always known the balcony becomes the main fridge at this time of year." Another chimed in, saying they could finally try Lawson’s recipe as it would be their first Christmas cooking a whole turkey. "I now own an official turkey bucket to use each year, wish me luck!"
Meanwhile, others expressed concerns about Lawson's unconventional method, with one commenter wondering, "Not sure I’d risk leaving my turkey out in the garden! Rats would’ve demolished it by morning." Despite contrasting opinions, Lawson's popularity remains intact as more fans look forward to trying her techniques.
At the end of the day, Lawson stands firmly by her methods. Her brined turkey preparation—adventurous as it may seem—carries the promise of delicious results, leaving kitchens filled with the flavors of the holiday season.
