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Overnight Thanksgiving turkey brine recipe for moist and flavorful turkey.

Thanksgiving Turkey Brine

A simple overnight brine recipe that keeps your turkey juicy and flavorful, perfect for Thanksgiving.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 14 hours
Servings: 1 turkey
Course: Main Course, Thanksgiving
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Brining Mixture
  • 2 gallons cold water More if needed to fully cover the turkey
  • 1.5 cups kosher salt
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons black peppercorns
  • 2-3 pieces bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme Or a few sprigs of fresh thyme
  • 1 piece orange, sliced Optional but recommended
  • 4-6 cloves garlic, smashed Optional

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a big pot, warm about 4 cups of water just enough to dissolve the salt and sugar.
  2. Stir until it looks clear, then pour it into your brining container with the rest of the cold water.
  3. Add the herbs, peppercorns, and any extras like citrus or garlic.
  4. Put the fully thawed turkey in the brine, ensure it’s submerged, and refrigerate overnight (10 to 14 hours).
Post-Brining
  1. After brining, pull the turkey out, rinse it quickly, and pat it very dry with paper towels.
  2. Let it sit uncovered in the fridge for 1 to 3 hours to help crisp the skin.

Notes

Keep the turkey submerged and the brine cold. Don't reuse brine once turkey has been in it. Dry the skin before roasting for crispy texture.