Easy Turkey Brine Recipe
This simple brine recipe is perfect for beginners and adds incredible moisture and flavor to your Thanksgiving turkey.
Ingredients:
- 1 gallon water
- 1/2 cup kosher salt
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme (optional)
Cooking Guide:
-
Prep: In a large pot or container, combine water, salt, brown sugar, peppercorns, bay leaf (if using), and thyme (if using). Heat over medium heat until sugar and salt dissolve. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
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Brine: Once the brine is cool, place your thawed turkey in a large brining bag or clean container. Pour the cooled brine over the turkey, ensuring it’s completely submerged. Cover and refrigerate for 12-24 hours (depending on the size of your turkey).
- Brining time:
- For a 12-14 pound turkey, brine for 12 hours.
- For a 14-18 pound turkey, brine for 16-18 hours.
- For an 18-20 pound turkey, brine for 20-24 hours.
- Roast: After brining, remove the turkey from the brine and rinse thoroughly with cold water. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Season the turkey with your favorite herbs and spices, and roast according to your preferred recipe.
Tips:
- Use a brining bag specifically designed for turkeys. If not available, use a clean container large enough to hold the turkey and brine comfortably.
- Don’t reuse leftover brine.
- Brining can slightly alter your roasting time. Be sure to check the internal temperature of the turkey for doneness (165°F in the thickest part of the thigh).
- You can customize this brine recipe by adding other aromatics to the pot, such as sliced oranges, onions, or cloves.
- Be sure to thaw your turkey completely before brining.
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