Turkey Brine Recipe

By HotDishHomemaker

Several years ago I decided to Brine my Turkey prior to roasting. Brining your Turkey helps to lock in the Turkey’s natural juices so it doesn’t dry out as much when cooking. It can also add wonderful notes of flavor to the already savory meat.

If you have never brined a Turkey before, give this recipe a try!

Ingredients

• ◾2 1/2 Cups Apple Cider
• ◾2 Gallons Cold Water
• ◾2/3 Cup Fresh Rosemary,removed from stems
• ◾5 Cloves of Garlic Minced
• ◾ 1 & 1/2 Cups Kosher Salt
• ◾1/2 Cup Brown Sugar
• ◾1 Cup Sugar
• ◾3 Tablespoons Peppercorns
• ◾5 Whole Bay Leaves
• ◾Peel and Juice from 3 Oranges

Details

Adapted from hotdishhomemaker.com

Preparation

Step 1

1. Combine all ingredients in a large stock pot. Over medium heat, stir until Salt and Sugars dissolve, then bring to a boil. Remove from heat and cover the pot.


2. Allow the Brine to cool completely, then pour into a large brining bag or large stock pot.

3. Place uncooked, thawed Turkey in the Brine. Refrigerate overnight or up to 14 hours.
◾You don’t want to overbrine your Turkey. Just as you don’t want to overcook your Turkey.

4. When ready to roast your Turkey, remove it from the Brine. Rinse the Turkey in cold water.

5. Allow the water to run for about 10 minutes over the Turkey, in your sink, to remove excess Salt from the outside.

6. Give your Turkey a pat dry and you are ready to begin the roasting process!