Tuzda Tavuk with Mediterranean Flavors

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 kg / 3.3 lbs) 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 kg / 3.3 lbs)
• 2 kg (4.4 lbs) coarse sea salt 2 kg (4.4 lbs) coarse sea salt
• 4 sprigs of fresh thyme 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
• 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
• 2 sprigs of fresh oregano 2 sprigs of fresh oregano
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, sliced 1 lemon, sliced
• Freshly ground black pepper Freshly ground black pepper

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 15g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
• Carbohydrates: 0g (Sugars: 0g)
• Protein: 50g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 10g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the coarse sea salt, minced garlic, and freshly ground black pepper.
3. 3.
   Rinse the chicken thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels.
4. 4.
   Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the fresh thyme, rosemary, oregano, and lemon slices.
5. 5.
   Rub the chicken all over with the salt mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated.
6. 6.
   Place a layer of the salt mixture on the bottom of a roasting pan or baking dish.
7. 7.
   Place the chicken on top of the salt layer and cover it completely with the remaining salt mixture, pressing it firmly to create a crust.
8. 8.
   Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
9. 9.
   Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes.
10. 10.
    Carefully crack open the salt crust and remove it from the chicken.
11. 11.
    Carve the chicken and serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon slices.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coarse sea salt — Ensure you use coarse sea salt rather than table salt, as it provides the ideal texture and flavor for the salt crust.
• Fresh herbs — Opt for fresh herbs instead of dried ones to maximize the aromatic impact on the chicken.
• Lemon slices — Use organic lemons if possible, as they will add a more vibrant and natural flavor to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• To ensure a moist and tender chicken, make sure to rinse it thoroughly and pat it dry before applying the salt crust.
• For added flavor, you can incorporate other Mediterranean herbs like sage or marjoram into the salt mixture.
• Serve the Tuzda Tavuk with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to complement the flavors.
• If you prefer a more intense herb flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the herb mixture for a few hours before applying the salt crust.
• Leftover Tuzda Tavuk can be used in sandwiches or salads for a delicious and protein-packed meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Tuzda Tavuk as the centerpiece of a festive meal. Carve the chicken at the table to showcase the golden-brown crust and reveal the succulent meat within. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices for an extra touch of freshness.

Presentation advice

Present the Tuzda Tavuk on a large platter, surrounded by roasted vegetables and garnished with sprigs of fresh herbs. The salt crust will create a dramatic visual impact, making it a stunning centerpiece for any gathering.