Roasting a turkey is an iconic tradition during many holiday seasons, especially Thanksgiving. While there are countless methods and recipes that claim to produce the perfect turkey, experts at Jennie-O have introduced a surprisingly unconventional method that has been deemed the best way to roast this festive bird.

Jennie-O, a brand known for its wide range of turkey products, has revealed an approach that focuses on flavor infusion and moisture retention. This unexpected yet simple technique could be a game-changer in kitchens across America.

The secret lies in slow-roasting the turkey upside down. Yes, you read that correctly. Placing the turkey breast-side down for the initial roasting phase ensures that the natural juices flow into the breast meat, which is often prone to drying out. The thigh and leg meat, which contain higher fat content and are situated at the bottom when the bird is placed traditionally, release their juices resulting in an incredibly succulent breast.

Here’s how you do it according to Jennie-O’s experts:

1. Start by seasoning your turkey as usual with your desired herbs and spices.

2. Preheat the oven to a lower temperature than you might be accustomed to—325°F (165°C) is recommended.

3. Place your turkey upside down on a roasting rack inside a roasting pan.

4. Roast it breast-side down for three-quarters of the total cooking time. For a standard 12-to-15-pound turkey, this would mean about 2 to 2.5 hours.

5. Carefully flip the turkey over for the remaining time to finish cooking and achieve a beautifully browned skin on the breast.

6. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your turkey reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at its thickest part without touching bone before removing it from the oven.

7. Allow it to rest for at least 20 minutes before carving so that the juices can redistribute throughout the meat.

Not only does this method keep your breast meat deliciously tender and juicy, but it also allows you to slow-cook your bird at a steadier temperature, reducing chances of ending up with an overcooked or undercooked turkey.

Jennie-O’s experts stress that patience is key when adopting this technique. The lower oven temperature may extend cooking time slightly but assures evenly cooked meat that simply falls off the bone.

This unexpected method of roasting inverted not only enhances overall flavor but also makes for an impressive presentation once carved and served. Next holiday season, consider trying this expert-approved best way to roast your turkey – your dinner guests will thank you!