A Pennsylvania Craft Beer Thanksgiving: Featuring Maple-Brown Ale Glazed Turkey
Thanksgiving isn’t just about turkey and pie at The Beer Thrillers household; it’s an epic showcase of Pennsylvania craft beer’s finest. As family debates over the wishbone and football score, locals know the real show-stopper is the beer-infused feast. This year, we’re crafting a Maple–Brown Ale Glazed Turkey that pays homage to Pennsylvania’s brewing legacy with help from beers like Troegs Troegenator Doppelbock or Victory’s Festbier.
What makes this turkey true to its Pennsylvanian roots? A slow roasting process resulting in a juicy, caramel-covered masterpiece. The pairing of a malty beer in the glaze elevates the dish to new savory heights, showcasing the sweet and nutty flavors that PA’s fall beers are famous for. Dive into these curated recipes for a truly local Thanksgiving experience that brings the best of Pennsylvania’s craft beer scene straight to your table.
Maple–Brown Ale Glazed Turkey: Recipe and More
The secret to our Thanksgiving delight is selecting the perfect craft beer. Troegenator’s rich, malty profile, with hints of caramel and dark fruit, creates an unrivaled, BBQ-like glaze. Alternatively, opt for Victory Festbier for a more delicate, bready balance. No matter your choice, your table centerpiece will be outstanding.
This turkey isn’t just about the glaze; it’s about the community and tradition surrounding every pour. The epitome of a Pennsylvania Thanksgiving isn’t just the dish but also the company and the stories shared over a well-brewed beer.
Ingredients for the Turkey
Prepare a thawed 12–16 lbs turkey with a seasoning blend of kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, thyme, and sage. Coat generously with olive oil or butter, stuff with aromatic orange, onion, garlic, and herbs, and let the fragrance enhance every bite.
Crafting the Beer–Maple Glaze
Create the glaze by simmering Troegenator or Victory Festbier alongside maple syrup, cider, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar. The reduced blend transforms any turkey into a shiny, caramelized showpiece. As it cools, the glaze entices with a sweet, alluring aroma.
Roasting and Pairing
Preheat your oven to 325°F, roast uncovered for an hour, then start basting. Continue until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, basting every 20-30 minutes. If your turkey browns too fast, tent it with foil to allow for a perfect finish.
Pennsylvania craft beers provide perfect pairing choices: Troegs Blizzard of Hops for a bright counterbalance, Neshaminy Creek Shape of Hops to Come for hop lovers, or Rotunda Cran-Gose for an unexpected tart treat. Pairing beer with your feast isn’t just suggested — it’s a local tradition.
Craft Beer-Inspired Sides
For a fully immersive experience, complement your turkey with beer-infused sides. Try Hop-Infused Mashed Potatoes with Troegs Sunshine Pilsner for a fresh twist, or Brown Ale Stuffing using Lancaster Brewing’s Winter Warmer. To finish, glisten roasted sweet potatoes with Troegs Chocolate Elf for a decadent touch.
The Brewery Experience
Pennsylvania doesn’t just brew beer; it combines the essence of the land, the passion of local brewers, and the heritage of crafting. Explore the scene with BreweriesNearMe.us, your guide to U.S. brewery destinations, trends, and ultimate beer tourism.
This Thanksgiving, let Pennsylvania’s craft brews inspire your feast, filled with warmth, nostalgia, and a sense of home. Celebrate by cooking with your favorite beer, and share your experience with fellow enthusiasts who appreciate the art of brewing. Cheers to an unforgettable holiday!
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