Homemade Roast Turkey Deli Meat Recipe
Introduction
Making your own deli meat at home is simpler than you might think and yields delicious, fresh slices perfect for sandwiches. This recipe focuses on turkey breast seasoned with spices and slow-roasted to tender perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 lb turkey breast
- Spices of your choice (such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 275°F (135°C). Season the turkey breast evenly with your chosen spices.
- Step 2: Place the seasoned turkey breast on a rack in a roasting pan and roast slowly for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Step 3: Let the turkey rest for at least 10 minutes before thinly slicing it for deli-style meat.
Tips & Variations
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked perfectly without drying out.
- Try different spice blends like Italian herbs, smoked paprika, or cumin for varied flavors.
- For extra moisture, brine the turkey breast in a saltwater solution for a few hours before cooking.
Storage
Store the sliced deli meat in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently if desired, or enjoy cold on sandwiches and salads.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, this method works well with chicken breasts, pork loin, or beef cuts suitable for roasting.
How thin should I slice the deli meat?
Slicing the meat as thinly as possible helps replicate traditional deli slices and improves texture and flavor when eating cold or in sandwiches.
PrintHomemade Roast Turkey Deli Meat Recipe
This homemade deli meat recipe features tender, flavorful turkey breast seasoned with a blend of spices and roasted low and slow for optimal taste and texture. Perfect for sandwiches, salads, or snack platters, this deli meat is a healthier, preservative-free alternative to store-bought options.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Deli / Sandwich Meat
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 pounds turkey breast, boneless and skinless
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a slight kick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Season the Turkey Breast: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a small bowl, mix kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, and cayenne pepper. Rub the olive oil all over the turkey breast, then evenly coat it with the spice mixture, ensuring all sides are covered.
- Preheat and Prepare for Roasting: Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the seasoned turkey breast on a wire rack set atop a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. This setup allows air circulation for even cooking.
- Roast the Turkey: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey breast. Roast the turkey low and slow in the preheated oven until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), which usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on thickness. This slow roasting cooks the meat evenly and keeps it moist and tender.
- Rest and Slice Thin: Remove the turkey breast from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. After resting, slice the turkey breast as thinly as possible for deli-style slices using a sharp knife or meat slicer.
Notes
- Using a meat thermometer ensures the turkey is fully cooked but remains juicy.
- Adjust spices according to your preference for more or less heat and herbaceous tones.
- Leftover turkey deli meat keeps well refrigerated for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Thin slicing is key to replicating authentic deli meat texture.
- This recipe can be adapted for chicken breast or pork loin using the same method and cooking times.
Keywords: homemade deli meat, turkey breast deli meat, oven roasted turkey, low and slow roasting, healthy deli meat, sandwich meat, turkey slices
