How to Cook Thanksgiving Turkey Brine Like A Professional

Updated
2 min read

Thanksgiving turkey brine –Thanksgiving is a time for family gatherings and sumptuous feasts, and one of the star attractions on the dinner table is often a beautifully roasted turkey. To elevate your turkey to new heights of flavor and succulence, consider using this delightful turkey brine recipe. Brining not only adds moisture but also enhances the turkey’s flavor, ensuring that every bite is juicy and savory.

Turkey Brine Recipe

Before diving into the details, let’s take a look at the mouth-watering image of our finished turkey.

Turkey Brine Recipe

This turkey brine is a combination of simple ingredients that transform your turkey into a magnificent centerpiece. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this incredible brine:

Ingredients

  • 1 cup kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
  • 1 tablespoon allspice berries
  • 1 tablespoon thyme (fresh or dried)
  • 1 gallon of water
  • 1 turkey (12-14 pounds)
  • Ice (optional, for cooling)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, combine the water, kosher salt, brown sugar, peppercorns, allspice berries, and thyme. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the salt and sugar fully dissolve.
  2. Once dissolved, remove the brine from heat and let it cool completely. If you’re short on time, you can add ice to cool it more quickly.
  3. Once the brine is cooled, place your turkey in a large container or a brining bag. Pour the brine over the turkey, making sure it is fully submerged. If needed, add more water to cover the turkey.
  4. Seal the container or bag tightly, and refrigerate it for 12 to 24 hours. The longer the turkey brines, the more flavorful it will be.
  5. After brining, remove the turkey from the brine and rinse it under cold water to wash away excess salt and spices. Pat dry with paper towels.
  6. Your turkey is now ready for seasoning and roasting. Enjoy the juicy, flavorful result!

This turkey brine recipe is simple yet transformative, ensuring that your turkey will be the hit of your Thanksgiving celebration. Not only will it taste amazing, but brined turkey retains moisture and has a beautiful, golden-brown skin when cooked. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create a memorable feast!