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The Ultimate Juicy Turkey Brine for Your Holiday Roast

A beautifully roasted turkey with golden-brown, crispy skin, likely prepared using a turkey brine method.
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This easy wet brine recipe infuses your turkey with moisture and savory flavor using simple herbs and citrus. It is the essential step for achieving a tender, flavorful holiday centerpiece.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup Kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 whole orange, halved
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 6 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
  • 1 gallon cold water (plus more ice)
  • 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey

Instructions

  1. Prepare the brine base: In a large pot, combine the salt, brown sugar, orange halves, lemon halves, rosemary, thyme, garlic, and peppercorns. Add 4 cups of water.
  2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the salt and sugar fully dissolve. Do not boil.
  3. Remove the pot from the heat. Add the remaining cold water and ice to cool the brine down quickly to below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
  4. Place the whole turkey in a large, food-safe container or brining bag. Pour the cooled brine over the turkey, making sure it is completely submerged. Add more ice or water if necessary to cover the bird fully.
  5. Refrigerate the turkey in the brine for 12 to 24 hours. For a turkey breast, brine for 6 to 8 hours.
  6. Remove the turkey from the brine. Discard the brine solution.
  7. Rinse the turkey thoroughly inside and out under cold running water to remove excess salt and aromatics.
  8. Pat the turkey completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for crispy skin.
  9. Proceed with your roasting recipe immediately, or let the turkey air-dry uncovered in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours for even better skin.

Notes

  • This wet brine method is the most reliable way to prevent dry meat and is perfect for roast turkey moisture.
  • For a quick brine, reduce the soaking time to 4 hours for a whole bird, but ensure the bird is completely submerged.
  • If you prefer a dry brine, skip this process and rub the turkey with salt and seasonings directly.
  • This recipe focuses on the best turkey brine ingredients for ultimate flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.unfoldrecipes.com/turkey-brine-recipe-juicy-moist-flavorful/