Stuffed Turkey with Squid and Herbed Rice

This unique dish features a succulent turkey stuffed with a flavorful mixture of squid and herbed rice, creating a delightful balance of land and sea. The addition of baking soda and vinegar in the preparation helps tenderize the turkey while enhancing the overall flavor. It's a creative yet sensible take on traditional stuffed turkey, perfect for special occasions.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (10-12 lbs)
• 1 lb squid, cleaned and chopped
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 2 tbsp vinegar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 2 cups chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
3. Add the chopped squid to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it turns opaque.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, squid mixture, parsley, dill, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
5. Prepare the turkey by rinsing it under cold water and patting it dry. Rub the inside with vinegar and sprinkle baking soda inside. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
6. Stuff the turkey cavity with the squid and rice mixture, then truss the legs with kitchen twine.
7. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and pour chicken broth around it. Cover loosely with aluminum foil.
8. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 2-2.5 hours, removing the foil for the last 30 minutes to brown the skin.
9. Check for doneness using a meat thermometer (165°F/75°C in the thickest part of the thigh).
10. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving and serving.