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Effortless Turkey Brine


  • Author: Marlene Quinn
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 1 turkey 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

A simple yet flavorful brine that enhances turkey, making it juicy and delicious for holiday gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup kosher salt
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 gallons cold water
  • 45 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 45 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 45 sprigs fresh sage
  • Handful of crushed garlic
  • Sliced onion
  • Whole spices (peppercorns, allspice berries, bay leaves)
  • Optional: Citrus (orange or lemon)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, combine kosher salt and brown sugar with cold water over medium heat until dissolved.
  2. Add crushed garlic, sliced onion, and the chosen herbs, letting the brine simmer for about 10 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
  4. Place turkey in a clean container or brining bag and pour the cooled brine over, ensuring it’s submerged.
  5. Refrigerate for 12-24 hours, weighing down the turkey if it floats.
  6. After brining, rinse the turkey under cold water and pat dry before roasting.

Notes

Start brining a day before cooking to ensure maximum flavor infusion.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Brining
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 100
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 1950mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: brine, turkey, holiday cooking, Thanksgiving, flavorful turkey