Sail Into Flavor: Coffee-Rubbed Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey

Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course, unforgettable meals. This year, why not sail into new culinary territory with a roasted turkey infused with the bold, aromatic flavors of Sailors Coffee Company’s specialty coffee blends? This coffee rub recipe combines the depth of Winter Sailing Seasonal Blend coffee with a medley of spices to create a turkey that’s smoky, savory, and just a touch sweet.

Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner at home or anchoring the feast for a holiday gathering, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Coffee-Rubbed Roasted Turkey Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp fine ground Winter Sailing Seasonal Blend coffee (or your favorite Sailors Coffee Company blend)
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp onion powder
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp chili powder (optional, for a smoky kick)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Turkey

Begin by cleaning the turkey, patting it dry, and removing the giblets and neck. Let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

2. Create the Coffee Rub

In a small bowl, combine the coffee and spices. Stir until evenly mixed, ensuring the flavors meld together perfectly.

3. Rub It Down

Coat the turkey with a light drizzle of olive oil to help the rub adhere. Massage the coffee spice blend generously all over the bird, making sure to get under the skin and inside the cavity for maximum flavor.

4. Marinate for Depth

For the best results, let the turkey marinate in the refrigerator for 4-12 hours. This allows the coffee and spices to infuse deeply into the meat.

5. Roast to Perfection

Roast following the cook-time instructions for your turkey.

6. Rest, Carve, and Serve

Let the turkey rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This locks in the juices and ensures every bite is as tender as it is flavorful.

Why Coffee?

The ground coffee in this recipe adds a rich, earthy complexity that pairs beautifully with the spices, giving your turkey a gourmet touch that feels both bold and comforting. Plus, using Sailors Coffee Company’s Winter Sailing Seasonal Blend coffee adds a festive twist with its subtle hints of holiday cheer.

Pair this show-stopping turkey with a freshly brewed pot of Winter Sailing Seasonal Blend to tie your Thanksgiving feast together perfectly.

Set sail on a journey of flavor this Thanksgiving and create a meal your crew will never forget!