| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 1 hr 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 476 | 21g | 6g | 28g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 18g | 3g | 45g | 1.8g |
When I first encountered the Turmeric-Buttermilk Roast Chicken recipe, my Southern palate couldn’t help but be intrigued. Harnessing the earthy piquancy of turmeric, sweetness of honey and the tanginess of buttermilk, this dish beautifully straddles the line between my roots and my adventurous gourmet spirit.
The Perfect Fusion of Flavours
The Turmeric-Buttermilk Roast Chicken, in essence, is a fruit-based recipe that impeccably combines ingredients that traditionally wouldn’t be found together in a Southern kitchen. Think of it as a tropical rendition of the classic roast chicken – the same comforting warmth of a Sunday dinner at grandma’s, but with a delightful twist. Similar recipes that this roast chicken might work well with include Southern-style roasted veggies with a drizzle of olive oil, garlic and lemon zest. The sweet and savory flavors of such accompaniments beautifully mirror the harmony of the roast chicken, setting the stage for a special dining experience.
Why Turmeric Enhances This Dish
Another feature of my fondness for this particular recipe is the use of turmeric. This yellow spice, prominent in Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine, has been acclaimed for its numerous health benefits. Ranging from its anti-inflammatory properties to boosting brain function, turmeric is as healthful as it is flavorful. Harmonizing with the citrusy zing of the lemons and the sweet depth of the fresh mixed fruit, the turmeric effectively bridges the dish into a symphony of flavors.
In the tradition of my Southern roots, the succulence of the chicken is key. The marriage of buttermilk with honey ensures that the chicken remains moist, tender, and delicious. This technique bears resemblance to the Southern staple of marinating chicken in buttermilk for fried chicken – only in this case, we’re refining it by lending a gourmet touch.
With the Turmeric-Buttermilk Roast Chicken, what you have is a unique, soulful meal that beckons with Southern comfort, yet surprises with a refreshed, cosmopolitan flair. It’s a celebration of how food, much like life, is always open to delightful interpretations, as long as you dare to venture beyond tradition.
What You’ll Need
- 1 whole chicken (about 5 pounds)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons turmeric
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 cup mixed fruit (like apple, orange, and pineapple chunks)
Method
Step One
Start by preparing the chicken. Rinse it well under cold water and pat it dry using paper towels. Ensure to remove any innards that might be present in the cavity of the bird.
Step Two
In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, honey, turmeric, salt, black pepper, the zest and juice of the lemons, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir to combine these ingredients thoroughly.
Step Three
Place the chicken in a large plastic bag or a dish. Pour the buttermilk mixture over the chicken, ensuring that it’s fully covered by the marinade. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or up to 24 hours.
Step Four
When you’re ready to cook the chicken, preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. In a roasting pan, add the olive oil, chopped onion, and mixed fruit. Stir to combine.
Step Five
Remove the chicken from the fridge. Discard the excess marinade and place the chicken on top of the onions and fruit in the roasting pan. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1.5 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the skin is beautifully golden.
Step Six
Once done, allow the chicken to rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This will ensure the juices are redistributed throughout the bird for a moist and succulent roast. Serve the chicken with the caramelized onions and fruit on the side as a delicious accompaniment.
