Image Credit: Flickr – Scott Feldstein
How to Brine a Turkey
By: Cindy Livesey
Total time:
Have you ever wondered how to Brine a Turkey? Have you ever wondered, what the heck is a brine? Well, we’ve got answers for you.
First, let me start by saying that if you have never brined a turkey before I can tell you that it really does make a difference. Brining a turkey adds moisture and flavor and keeps the turkey from drying out. And contrary to popular belief, the turkey does not taste salty at all.
So, what is a brine? Well, it’s basically a solution of salt in water. The liquid containing salt and spices that the turkey is sitting in transfer into the meat of the turkey. It then breaks down the protein in the meat which allows for more water in the meat and holds the water in during cooking preventing the meat from drying out. Sort of scientific I know right? Well, you don’t need to suit up in a Walter White Chemistry Suit or anything for this recipe. It’s pretty simple. 😉
This recipe is for a 15 lb turkey.
First, let me start by saying that if you have never brined a turkey before I can tell you that it really does make a difference. Brining a turkey adds moisture and flavor and keeps the turkey from drying out. And contrary to popular belief, the turkey does not taste salty at all.
- 2 gallons of water
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup kosher salt
- 2 lemons cut in half
- 4 bay leaves
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- small handful of cloves
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Combine all ingredients in a large pot. We use a turkey fryer pot that we picked up at Dick's Sporting Goods (in the camping section). It's large enough to fit even a very large bird.
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Empty the cavities of the turkey out and wash well. Plunge it into the pot. The turkey should sit in the liquid for at least 6 hours. We like to keep it in overnight. To do this, we add a bunch of ice, keep it covered and put it in the garage where it's still cool but protected.
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Pull your turkey out and you are ready to cook as usual. I usually put the contents of the brine inside the cavity of the turkey while it is cooking for added flavor.
You can really use any types of herbs and spices for the brine. The key ingredients are the sugar & salt. Everything else can be modified to your liking.
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All things Thanksgiving!
