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Top down shot of a carved roasted turkey on a white platter.
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4.60 from 20 votes

Roast Turkey With Mojo (Pavo con Mojo)

A garlicky, citrusy, sazón-kissed Roast Turkey that roasts to golden perfection—a flavorful Dominican-style centerpiece for Thanksgiving and beyond.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time3 hours 30 minutes
Total Time3 hours 45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Latin
Servings: 10 servings
Calories: 31kcal
Author: Vanessa

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 12–15 lb turkey
  • 1 cup cilantro
  • 20 cloves garlic
  • 1 medium onion
  • 1 Tbsp ground cumin
  • 2 Tbsp oregano
  • 2 tsp sazón culantro y achiote
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 3 celery stalks cut in big chunks (optional)
  • 2 carrots cut in big chunks (optional)
  • 1 medium onion quartered (optional)

Instructions

  • Rinse the turkey with water and lemon, then pat very dry and set in a roasting pan.
  • In a food processor/blender, combine cilantro, garlic, onion, cumin, oregano, sazón, salt, and lemon juice; process into a thick mojo. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, including under the skin and inside the cavity.
  • Stuff the cavity with the celery, carrots, and onion; scatter any extra vegetables around the turkey (optional).
  • Preheat the oven to 430°F and roast for 30 minutes. Lower the oven to 350°F, tent the breast loosely with foil, and continue roasting until the turkey reaches 165°F in the thigh, about 3 hours for a 12-lb turkey (about 15 minutes per pound).
  • Remove from the oven and rest at least 15 minutes before carving.

Notes

  • If using a frozen turkey, thaw in the refrigerator for 3 days before seasoning.
  • Season the day before and marinate overnight for best flavor.
  • Let the turkey stand at room temp 2–3 hours before roasting for even cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer below the drumstick into the thigh; at 165°F, it’s done.
  • Rest before carving so the juices redistribute and the meat stays tender.

Nutrition

Calories: 31kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 0.1mg | Sodium: 487mg | Potassium: 165mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 2226IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 48mg | Iron: 1mg