The Smoked Peppercorn Turkey Breast is a delightful twist on traditional turkey dishes, offering a smoky flavor profile enhanced by a bold peppercorn crust. This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy turkey without the hassle of preparing a whole bird. The slow smoking process ensures the meat remains tender and juicy, while the peppercorn seasoning adds a layer of complexity to each bite. Paired with a homemade Cranberry Chili BBQ Sauce, this dish brings together the rich flavors of smoked turkey with the sweet and spicy notes of the sauce. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply craving a comforting meal, this Smoked Peppercorn Turkey Breast is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
Turkey:
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1 whole bone-in turkey breast (approximately 6–8 lbs)
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2 tablespoons Mesquite Peppercorn Lager Seasoning (or 1 tablespoon each of sea salt and black pepper)
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1.5 tablespoons canola oil
Spritz:
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12 oz lager beer
Wrap:
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12 tablespoons butter
Cranberry Chili BBQ Sauce:
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2 tablespoons cranberry jelly
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1.5 tablespoons ketchup
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1 tablespoon garlic chili paste
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1.5 teaspoons rice wine vinegar
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1.5 teaspoons honey
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Directions:
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Prep the Turkey:
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Coat the turkey breast with canola oil, then season generously with Mesquite Peppercorn Lager Seasoning or a simple mix of sea salt and black pepper.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
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Prepare the Smoker:
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Preheat your smoker to 275°F (135°C) for indirect cooking. Add wood chips or chunks to infuse a rich smoky flavor.
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Smoking the Turkey:
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Place the seasoned turkey breast on the smoker and cook for 1 to 1.5 hours, spritzing with lager beer every 20 minutes to maintain moisture.
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Once the internal temperature reaches 115°F (46°C), remove the turkey from the smoker.
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Wrapping for Moisture:
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Lay out a 2-foot piece of aluminum foil. Place 2 tablespoons of butter in the center, then position the turkey breast on top. Add another 2 tablespoons of butter over the turkey.
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Wrap the foil tightly around the turkey and return it to the smoker.
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Final Smoking:
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Continue smoking the turkey for an additional hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Remove from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
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Prepare the Cranberry Chili BBQ Sauce:
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In a preheated cast iron skillet on the smoker or over the fire, combine cranberry jelly, ketchup, garlic chili paste, rice wine vinegar, honey, and Worcestershire sauce.
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Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce is warm and thickened.
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Serving:
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Slice the rested turkey breast and serve with the warm Cranberry Chili BBQ Sauce drizzled over the top.
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
Servings: 6–8 servings
Smoked Peppercorn Turkey Breast: A Bold and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish
Smoked Peppercorn Turkey Breast is a unique and exciting take on the traditional turkey recipe. Combining the flavors of smoky, tender turkey with the bold, spicy kick of freshly ground peppercorns, this dish elevates the typical holiday or family meal to a new level. Infused with the rich aroma of a smoker, complemented by a zesty Cranberry Chili BBQ sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Background of the Dish
Turkey, often the star of holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, can sometimes be perceived as a heavy, one-dimensional dish. While traditional roasting methods are a popular choice, they often leave turkey breasts dry or under-seasoned, lacking the depth of flavor that many other meats offer. Enter the Smoked Peppercorn Turkey Breast—a recipe that brings out the natural flavors of turkey while introducing a layer of smokiness and spice.
The practice of smoking meat dates back centuries, offering a way to preserve food while adding rich, deep flavors. Modern smoking techniques have come a long way, allowing home cooks to achieve smoky perfection with the help of wood chips, charcoal, or specialized smokers. This recipe harnesses those methods to create a turkey breast that’s tender, juicy, and full of character, all thanks to the long, slow process of smoking and the peppercorn crust that gives it a bold, spicy edge.
Why This Recipe is the Best
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Smoky, Rich Flavor Profile
What makes the Smoked Peppercorn Turkey Breast stand out is its unique flavor profile. While the turkey is cooking in the smoker, it absorbs the rich, smoky essence from the wood chips or charcoal, infusing every bite with that coveted smoky flavor. In contrast to traditional turkey roasting, which can sometimes result in a bland flavor, the smoking process adds a deep and complex taste that is sure to please your palate. The mesquite or hickory wood chips used in the smoker bring an extra layer of smokiness that contrasts beautifully with the bright and aromatic peppercorn seasoning.
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Juicy and Tender Turkey
One of the biggest challenges when cooking turkey is maintaining its moisture. Turkey breasts, in particular, can dry out quickly if not cooked properly. However, smoking the turkey helps preserve its natural juices. The slow-cooking process in the smoker allows the turkey to remain moist and tender while the outside develops a beautiful golden-brown crust. When wrapped in butter during the second phase of smoking, the turkey absorbs the added fat, ensuring it remains juicy throughout.
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Perfectly Balanced Seasoning
The peppercorn crust is a standout feature in this recipe. Black peppercorns are not just a seasoning; they add a pungent, slightly spicy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the turkey. Combined with the lager beer spritz, which is used to keep the turkey moist, the peppercorn crust forms a crispy, flavorful exterior that provides a nice balance to the tender, juicy interior. This combination of smoky flavors with the heat from peppercorns offers a well-rounded taste experience that’s bold without being overpowering.
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Cranberry Chili BBQ Sauce: A Sweet and Spicy Accompaniment
No turkey dish is complete without a flavorful sauce, and the Cranberry Chili BBQ sauce in this recipe provides the perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and heat. The cranberry jelly brings a familiar sweetness, while the garlic chili paste and Worcestershire sauce add depth and heat. This sauce complements the smoky turkey beautifully, giving each bite an extra punch of flavor. It’s the ideal accompaniment, offering a contrast to the richness of the turkey and elevating the overall dish.
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Ideal for Any Occasion
The versatility of Smoked Peppercorn Turkey Breast makes it suitable for a variety of occasions. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or a special Sunday meal, this dish delivers both style and substance. It’s a great option for those looking to serve something different from the traditional roasted turkey or those who prefer a more flavorful and unique approach. The smoky flavor and peppercorn crust make it perfect for those who enjoy bold, savory meals.
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Easy to Make, Yet Impressive
Despite its sophisticated flavor and presentation, Smoked Peppercorn Turkey Breast is surprisingly easy to make. The steps are straightforward, and the cooking process is forgiving. The turkey is seasoned, smoked, and then finished with a flavorful wrap of butter to lock in moisture. The inclusion of the cranberry chili BBQ sauce as an easy-to-make addition allows for the dish to be completed in a short time. When it’s done, you’re left with a beautifully tender and flavorful turkey breast that looks and tastes like it’s from a high-end restaurant, yet you made it in your own backyard.
Health Benefits
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High in Protein
Turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, maintaining a healthy metabolism, and supporting overall body function. The protein content in this Smoked Peppercorn Turkey Breast ensures that this dish is both satisfying and nutritious, providing a great source of energy and helping you feel full longer.
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Packed with Nutrients
In addition to protein, turkey is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins (particularly niacin and B6), which support energy production and brain health. The cranberries in the Cranberry Chili BBQ sauce provide antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. Together, these ingredients contribute to a well-rounded, nutrient-dense meal that nourishes the body while delivering great flavor.
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Low in Carbohydrates
Smoked Peppercorn Turkey Breast is a low-carb dish, making it an excellent option for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets. The lack of heavy sides or starches in this recipe allows the focus to remain on the protein-rich turkey and the flavorful seasonings. Paired with fresh vegetables or a light salad, it can easily be transformed into a balanced, low-carb meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.
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No Added Preservatives or Artificial Ingredients
When you make this recipe at home, you avoid the preservatives and artificial ingredients that are often found in store-bought turkey preparations. The fresh, all-natural ingredients used in this recipe ensure that the final dish is wholesome and free from any unwanted additives.
How to Smoke the Perfect Turkey Breast
To achieve the best results with Smoked Peppercorn Turkey Breast, it’s essential to monitor both the temperature of your smoker and the turkey’s internal temperature. The smoker should maintain a steady 275°F (135°C) for even cooking, while the turkey needs to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the breast. Using a meat thermometer is crucial for ensuring the turkey is cooked perfectly, avoiding both overcooking and undercooking.
It’s also important to let the turkey rest for about 10 minutes after removing it from the smoker. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and flavorful turkey.
Serving Suggestions
Smoked Peppercorn Turkey Breast is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it with a variety of sides to enhance the meal. For a light and fresh accompaniment, serve the turkey with a crisp, green salad or roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes. If you’re craving a more indulgent option, mashed potatoes or stuffing are excellent choices that complement the smoky flavor of the turkey.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Smoked Peppercorn Turkey Breast is an extraordinary dish that elevates the traditional turkey recipe with the deep flavors of smoking and a bold peppercorn crust. It’s a dish that offers both sophisticated flavor and comforting familiarity. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or preparing a family meal, this turkey breast will deliver on both taste and presentation, creating an unforgettable dining experience. With its rich smoky flavor, juicy texture, and the sweet-spicy Cranberry Chili BBQ sauce, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to impress with a truly unique turkey dish.
