A Shot of Flavor

For zestiness when you’re short on time, try these injections, marinades and more.

THE HOLIDAY SEASON CALLS FOR KITCHEN TIME GALORE. Although we love cooking as much as the next chilehead, there are only so many hours in the day (and we’d like to be eating during some of them, thank you very much). The good news is that a little prep time is enough to produce that deep, savory flavor we’re all craving right around now. All you need is five minutes for these turkey, chicken and meat marinades and injections, plus a rub and a glaze for even more variety.

If you’ve never injected your bird or meat before, it’s surprisingly easy. The key is to inject the marinade all over and into the center of the muscles—for example, through the breast, thighs, thick part of the wings and legs of a turkey. The more injection sites, the merrier the results. Also, slow and steady wins the race; shoot up steadily and carefully under the skin.

Just make sure to put away that needle before the guests arrive. No need to scare the kids so early in the evening! 

TIPSY TURKEY

We’re using Italian seasoning which goes well with citrus and holiday cooking in general. Vodka, though typically neutral in flavor, adds depth to your bird, but citrus vodka, which we’re calling for here, adds some extra zip. This recipe makes enough marinade for a 10- to 12-pound turkey. For best results, marinate your bird overnight.

YIELD ABOUT 1 CUP          ZEST FACTOR MILD 

PREP TIME 5 MINUTES      COOK TIME NONE

¾ CUP CITRUS VODKA 

¼ CUP OLIVE OIL 

1½ TEASPOONS ORANGE ZEST 

1½ TEASPOONS LEMON ZEST 

2 HABANEROS, SEEDED AND FINELY MINCED 

2 TABLESPOONS ITALIAN SEASONING 

1½ TABLESPOONS SALT