Out of This World Turkey Brine

Name: Out of This World Turkey Brine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 745 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 4 litres water (cold); 1 cup kosher salt (coarse); 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed); 1 tbsp black peppercorns (crushed); 1 tbsp allspice berries (crushed); 1 tbsp dried thyme; 6 cloves garlic (smashed); 4 bay leaves; 1 large onion (quartered); 1 orange (quartered)

745 min 12 servings Medium

All Recipes

Elevate your turkey with this out of this world brine, ensuring moist and flavourful meat for your next holiday feast.

Prep

15 min

Cook

10 min

Total

745 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Brining is a technique that infuses your turkey with moisture and flavour, resulting in a succulent centerpiece for any festive occasion. This out of this world turkey brine is packed with aromatic herbs and spices, elevating your bird to new culinary heights. Whether you're preparing your first holiday turkey or are a seasoned pro, this recipe is designed to enhance the flavour and juiciness of your turkey. It's perfect for those who want to impress family and friends with a tender and flavourful dish.

Instructions

Prepare the brine

In a large pot, combine water, kosher salt, and brown sugar. Stir over medium heat until salt and sugar dissolve completely.

Pro tip: Ensure the mixture does not boil to prevent altering the flavour.

Add aromatics

Add black peppercorns, allspice berries, thyme, garlic, bay leaves, onion, and orange to the pot. Stir to combine.

Pro tip: Crush the spices slightly to release more flavour.

Cool the brine

Remove the pot from heat and let the brine cool to room temperature.

Pro tip: Speed up cooling by placing the pot in an ice bath.

Submerge the turkey

Place your turkey in a large non-reactive container. Pour the cooled brine over the turkey, ensuring it is fully submerged.

Pro tip: Use a weight to keep the turkey submerged if necessary.

Refrigerate the turkey

Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 12 to 24 hours.

Pro tip: Flip the turkey halfway through brining for even flavour distribution.

Rinse and dry the turkey

Remove the turkey from the brine, rinse it thoroughly with cold water, and pat dry with paper towels.

Pro tip: Ensure the turkey is completely dry to achieve crispy skin when roasting.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Ensure your turkey is completely submerged for even brining.
Use a large, non-reactive container like a stainless steel pot or food-grade plastic bucket.
For enhanced flavour, brine the turkey for at least 12 hours.
Rinse the turkey thoroughly after brining to remove excess salt.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this turkey brine out of this world?

The combination of aromatic spices and citrus infuses the turkey with deep flavour and moisture, making it exceptionally tender and delicious.

How long should I brine my turkey?

Brine your turkey for at least 12 to 24 hours for optimal flavour and juiciness.

Can I use this brine for other poultry?

Yes, this brine can be used for chicken or other poultry to enhance flavour and moisture.

Do I need to rinse the turkey after brining?

Yes, rinsing the turkey after brining removes excess salt and ensures a balanced flavour.

How much salt is in the brine?

The brine contains 1 cup of kosher salt, which is essential for flavour and moisture retention.

Can I make the brine ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the brine up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your brined turkey with classic sides like mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and roasted vegetables for a complete holiday meal. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a light red for a harmonious dining experience. You can make the brine ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. After brining, the turkey should be cooked immediately or kept in the fridge for up to a day before cooking.

Nutrition per serving

Calories

Protein

See the whole store

Food Prep · Mixing Bowls

EHOMEA2Z Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls Set, Deep Mixing Bowls,Durable, Stackable,Food-Grade Safe,Rust and Corrosion Resistant Mixing Bowls Stainless Steel,Food Prep (5Pc Set)

$24.99

Kitchen Utensils · Can Openers

GORILLA GRIP Heavy Duty Upgraded Stainless Steel Smooth Edge Manual Can Opener and Bottle Openers, Soft Comfortable Oversized Handheld Turn Knob, US Designed Multifunctional Kitchen Tool, Black

$12.99

Pit Boss Grills

700FB Wood Pellet Grill

$799.99

Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.