Description
The Applewood Smoked Turkey Melt with Cranberry Whiskey Glaze is a gourmet holiday sandwich featuring rich applewood-smoked turkey, homemade cranberry whiskey glaze, and melted cheddar cheese on toasted whole wheat bread. Crafted for discerning home chefs seeking restaurant-quality results for holiday entertaining.
Ingredients
8 slices applewood smoked turkey breast
4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
8 slices artisan whole wheat bread
1/2 cup fresh cranberries
2 tablespoons whiskey (bourbon recommended)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon orange zest
2 tablespoons butter (for grilling)
Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the cranberry whiskey glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, whiskey, brown sugar, and orange zest. Simmer over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and mixture thickens to a glaze consistency.
2. Prepare your workspace: Lay out 4 slices of whole wheat bread. On each slice, layer 2 slices of applewood smoked turkey.
3. Add the glaze: Spoon 2 tablespoons of the cranberry whiskey glaze over the turkey on each sandwich, spreading evenly.
4. Add cheese and close: Place 1 slice of sharp cheddar cheese on each sandwich. Top with remaining bread slices to close sandwiches.
5. Grill the melts: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1/2 tablespoon butter per sandwich. Place sandwiches in skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is fully melted.
6. Serve immediately: Slice each melt diagonally and serve hot. Garnish with fresh rosemary and extra cranberry glaze on the side if desired.
Notes
Chef’s Tips: For extra smoky flavor, briefly warm the turkey slices in the skillet before assembling sandwiches.
Make-Ahead: The cranberry whiskey glaze can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Bread Options: Sourdough or ciabatta work beautifully as substitutes for whole wheat bread.
Cheese Variations: Try a blend of cheddar and gouda for extra creaminess, or use gruyere for a more sophisticated flavor.
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- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Grilling, Simmering
- Cuisine: American, Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg