Herbaceous Orange and Brown Sugar Brine for Turkey
Recipe Date:
September 20, 2022
Serving Size:
1
Cook Time:
12:00:00
Difficulty:
Easy
Measurements:
Imperial (US)
Let’s make dry turkey a thing of the past. Not only does brining bring extra-nuanced flavor and seasoning, it also ensures the turkey remains moist throughout the cooking process. This brine recipe can be adapted with what you have available, but keep in mind that salt and sugar are the most important part. Before getting started on this recipe make sure you have a large container, brine bucket or brining bag as well as space in your refrigerator.
Ingredients
- 2 oranges, cut in wedges
- 1 lemon, cut in wedges
- 1 head of garlic, cut in half
- 1 bunch parsley
- 1 bunch sage
- 1 bunch rosemary
- 1 bunch thyme
- 4 bay leaves
- 1 cup kosher salt
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsps whole black peppercorns
- 2 tbsps whole juniper berries
- 2 tbsps whole white peppercorns
- water
Directions
- Start by lightly toasting the spices in a small pan until aromatic.
- In a large pot bring three quarts of water and all of the ingredients, including the toasted spices, up to a boil. Stir until the sugar and salt is dissolved, then remove from the heat.
- Transfer the brine to a large plastic container or brine bucket and add an additional two quarts of cold water.
- Once the brine has cooled you can add your turkey. Make sure the turkey is completely submerged in the brine and brine for 8-12 hours.
- Remove the turkey from the brine, rinse and dry before roasting.
Take a look at our recommended pairing below.
