Turkey Brine Recipe
This turkey brine recipe delivers juicy, tender meat infused with bright citrus and aromatic herbs. Perfect for holiday meals, it’s easy to prepare and guarantees flavorful, moist turkey every time.
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Calories: 160kcal
Servings: 18
Equipment
- Large stockpot or clean brining container (big enough to hold turkey and brine)
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Refrigerator or a cool place to store the brining turkey
- Roasting pan and rack
- Meat thermometer (for checking turkey doneness)
Ingredients
- 3 cups apple juice or apple cider
- 2 gallons cold water
- 4 Tbsp. fresh rosemary leaves
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1 1/2 cups kosher salt
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 3 Tbsp. peppercorns
- 5 whole bay leaves
- Peel of three large oranges
Instructions
- In a large Bowl, combine apple juice or cider, cold water, kosher salt, brown sugar, rosemary, garlic, peppercorns, bay leaves, and orange peel. Stir until salt and sugar dissolve.
- Place the turkey in the brining container and pour the brine over it, making sure the bird is fully submerged.
- Cover and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours.
- Remove turkey from the brine, rinse well with cold water, and pat dry with paper towels.
- Let the turkey sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before roasting.
- Roast the turkey according to its weight and your preferred method until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.
- Serve and enjoy with your favorite sides and sauces like Alabama White Sauce.
Nutrition
Calories: 160kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 550mg | Sugar: 1g