Pro Tip:
For the best flavor and moisture content, follow the rule of brining for 1 hour per pound of turkey.
How to Brine a Turkey
To prepare your turkey, follow these steps:
- Combine – Mix sugar, salt, peppercorns, 1 gallon of water, and fresh herbs in a container large enough to hold the brine and your turkey (or use a brining bag). Stir until the sugar and salt dissolve.
- Add Turkey – Place your turkey breast down into the brine and add more cold water to ensure it’s fully submerged. Store the turkey and brine in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours or overnight.
- Get Ready to Roast – Remove the turkey from the brine and discard the brine. In a clean sink, rinse the turkey to remove excess salt and seasonings. Pat it dry with paper towels, and your turkey is ready to be roasted or smoked.
Safety Tip:
Before rinsing the turkey, ensure your sink is clean and empty. Have paper towels for drying, and position your roasting pan next to the sink for the dried turkey. Setting up in advance prevents splashing and spreading of raw turkey juices and bacteria. After placing the turkey in the roasting pan, clean the sink and counters with antibacterial cleaning products to prevent cross-contamination.
