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Homemade turkey brine ingredients and preparation for juicy Thanksgiving turkey.

Turkey Brine

A simple yet effective turkey brine recipe that ensures juicy and flavorful meat, perfect for any holiday meal.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 12 hours
Servings: 1 turkey
Course: Holiday, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 1800
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients for Brine
  • 2 gallons cold water More if needed to fully cover the turkey.
  • 1.5 cups kosher salt Or 1 cup of table salt.
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar Can substitute with white sugar.
  • 2 tablespoons black peppercorns
  • 4-6 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 2 leaves bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme Or a few fresh sprigs.
  • 1 piece peel of orange Optional.
  • a few slices lemon Optional.
  • a small handful fresh rosemary Optional.

Method
 

Brining Process
  1. Thaw the turkey fully. If it is even a little frozen inside, the brine will not get in evenly.
  2. Remove the giblets and neck. Pat the turkey quickly with paper towels.
  3. Make the brine by dissolving salt and sugar in a smaller amount of warm water first, then cool it down with cold water.
  4. Submerge the turkey breast side down if possible. Weigh it down with a clean plate if it floats.
  5. Keep the turkey cold. The fridge is easiest, but a cooler works if you keep plenty of ice around it.
  6. Brine the turkey for 8 to 12 hours, up to 24 hours but preferably not more.
  7. Rinse the turkey briefly after brining if using a full strength brine, then pat it very dry.
  8. Let the turkey sit uncovered in the fridge for 4 to 12 hours to help crisp the skin.

Notes

Keep the turkey under 40°F the whole time. If your turkey is labeled 'contains a solution', reduce the salt significantly to avoid over salting. Drying the skin is key for crispiness.