Smoked Maple Turkey Breast
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Makes: 6 servings
- 2 tbsp (30 mL) maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, rasped
- 1 tsp (5 mL) each dried thyme leaves and smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp (2 mL) ground mustard
- 1/4 tsp (1 mL) each salt and pepper
- 1 bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (about 2 lb/1 kg)
- 1 tbsp (15 mL) canola or vegetable oil
- 1 cup (250 mL) turkey or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp (5 mL) liquid smoke
- 1 tbsp (15 mL) cornstarch
- 1 tbsp (15 mL) water
In a small bowl, stir together maple syrup, garlic, thyme, paprika, mustard, salt and pepper. Gently lift turkey skin and spread under and all over turkey breast.
Set Instant Pot to high saute setting and add oil. Once the temperature is reached, brown turkey on both sides. Remove to plate. Stop sauce and add wire rack to the pot and place turkey on top. Slowly add broth and liquid smoke; scraping up brown bits. Close lid (follow manufacturer’s instructions how to do this). Set to Manual setting or high-pressure cook and set the timer to 15 to 20 minutes. Once complete, turn nozzle to vent or follow instructions for quick release. Once pressure stops, remove turkey to cutting board and tent with foil.
In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water. Add to drippings in pot and set to high saute. Cook, whisking for about 2 minutes or until thickened. Strain through a fine mesh sieve, if desired into a small pitcher. Slice turkey and serve with gravy.
Slow Cooker Variation: Brown turkey in skillet and place in a rack or use 2 pieces of folded foil in the slow cooker. Add broth and liquid smoke; cover and cook on Low for 3 to 4 hours or until turkey is no longer pink inside. Pour drippings into a small pot and bring to a simmer. Whisk in cornstarch mixture and cook until thickened.
Tip: To be sure that turkey breast is cooked use an instant-read thermometer and insert in thickest part of the breast. The temperature should be 170F (77 C).
To brown the turkey breast evenly a larger Instant Pot is recommended. If it doesn’t lie flat you can simply brown the breast in a large skillet and continue with the recipe to pressure cook it.
It is always recommended to check your owner’s manual for settings as many of these pressure cookers may vary.
