Thanksgiving Turkey Brine Recipe

Basic Turkey Brine Recipe: 1 gallon water 1 cup kosher salt ½ cup brown sugar 1 orange, quartered 2 lemons, 1 quartered onion, 6 cloves garlic, crushed 3 bay leaves 2 tablespoons whole black peppercorns 4 sprigs fresh rosemary 6 sprigs fresh thyme 2 trays ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Bring 4 cups of the water to a boil. Add salt and sugar, stir until completely dissolved.
2. Add citrus, garlic, herbs, and spices. Let steep for 5 minutes.
3. Add remaining water and ice to cool the brine completely (it must be cold before adding turkey).
4. Submerge turkey fully in brine in a large container or brining bag.
5. Refrigerate for 12-24 hours (about 1 hour per pound).

Important Tips:

• Use a food-grade container or brining bag
• Keep turkey and brine at 40°F or below
• Rinse turkey thoroughly after brining
• Pat completely dry before cooking
• Reduce any added salt in your cooking recipe since the meat is already seasoned