There are several ways to baste a turkey, but the most common method is to use a combination of melted butter, broth, and herbs. This mixture can be applied to the turkey using a pastry brush or a turkey baster. Some people also like to use the pan drippings or pan juices on the bottom of the roasting pan to baste their flavorful turkey. It is best to begin basting about an hour after you start cooking and to apply the baste in thin layers every 30-45 minutes thereafter. Other options for basting a turkey include laying strips of bacon or pancetta across the breast of the turkey while it roasts, pushing a flavored butter under the skin before roasting, or using a muslin cloth dipped in butter. Regardless of the method used, basting helps to keep the turkey moist and adds flavor to the meat and skin.