Brine That Bird in a Cooler

By á-46

Ingredients

• We love to brine, but around Thanksgiving the fridge can get too packed to fit the bird-in-a-bag. When that happens, a cooler can be your best friend.

Preparation

Step 1

Buy a food-grade resealable brining bag. (They're virtually leak-proof.) Fold down the sides of the bag for a contamination-free seal, then place the turkey in the bag, breast side up.

Transfer the bag to a large cooler filled halfway with ice, snuggling the bag into the cubes. Spread open the top of the folded bag, then carefully pour the brine over the turkey.

•open the top of the folded bag, then carefully pour the brine over the turkey.

•Fold up the sides, press out any excess air, then seal the bag. (If you've touched the turkey, be sure to wash your hands.) Fold over top of bag and completely cover bag with ice.


•Insert a digital thermometer into the ice and make sure it registers 40 degrees or lower at all times so bacteria can't grow. Keep the cooler shut, and refill with ice as necessary