Basic Turkey Brine Recipe
A basic turkey brine, or basic poultry brine, to enhance the flavor of turkey.
Prep Time3 minutes mins
Cook Time1 day d
Total Time1 day d 3 minutes mins
Course: Brine, Holiday
Cuisine: American, holiday
Keyword: basic turkey brine, Dry Brine Smoked Chicken, poultry brine, turkey brine, turkey brine recipe
Servings: 8 Quarts
Cost: $10.00
- 8 quarts water
- 1 ½ cups kosher salt
- ½ cup dark brown sugar
- 2 oranges, quartered
- 2 lemons, quartered
- 1 red onion, quartered
- ¼ cup whole peppercorns
- 4 dry bay leaves
- 5 whole dried cloves, (optional)
- 1 cup Bourbon or Whiskey, (optional, for added flavor)
In a large stock pot add water, salt, and sugar. Stir to dissolve the sugar and salt in the water.
Add remaining ingredients, squeeze the citrus to add to the flavor and stir.
Add 12 - 16 pound turkey to the stock pot and cover. Brine for 24 - 30 hours to maximize flavor.
Preparation: Be sure to use a thawed turkey. Plan 1 day of thaw for every 4 - 5 pounds of turkey.
Optional Additions: You can keep it basic with the salt, sugar, citrus, and herbs. But we love to add Bourbon and cloves for added flavor.
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Brining for longer than 36 hours can start to change the texture of the meat. We find 24 hours is ideal for a brine when smoking.
Calories: 73kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 21273mg | Potassium: 117mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 71IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 90mg | Iron: 1mg