Description
Savory Pioneer Woman Turkey Brine elevates holiday poultry with robust herbs and salt solution. Succulent, juicy turkey emerges from this classic brining method, promising memorable family gatherings around a perfectly seasoned centerpiece.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 gallons (7.6 litres) cold water
- 3 cups (710 ml) apple juice or apple cider
- 1 ½ cups (350 g) kosher salt
- 2 cups (450 g) brown sugar
Aromatic Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons (60 ml) fresh rosemary leaves
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons (45 ml) peppercorns
- 5 whole bay leaves
- Peel of 3 large oranges
Instructions
- Assemble the aromatic brine elements, including crisp apple juice, pure water, fragrant rosemary sprigs, crushed garlic cloves, kosher salt, rich brown sugar, whole peppercorns, dried bay leaves, and vibrant orange peel zest.
- Transfer all collected ingredients into a spacious cooking pot, then carefully heat the mixture, continuously stirring until the salt and sugar crystals completely dissolve into a harmonious liquid solution.
- Once the brining liquid reaches a rolling boil, immediately remove from heat source, securely cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and allow the entire mixture to naturally cool to ambient room temperature.
- Select a large brining container or heavy-duty plastic bag capable of accommodating the entire turkey, then gently transfer the thoroughly cooled aromatic liquid over the poultry, ensuring complete submersion.
- Carefully place the brining turkey into the refrigerator, maintaining a consistent temperature below 40°F (4°C), and allow the meat to marinate for approximately 18 to 22 hours, which permits optimal flavor absorption without excessive saltiness.
- After brining duration concludes, extract the turkey from its liquid bath, discard the used brine, and meticulously rinse the poultry under cold running water for 10 to 15 minutes to remove excess salt residue.
- Using multiple clean paper towels, carefully pat the turkey’s exterior and interior surfaces until completely dry, preparing it for the next cooking phase with a perfectly seasoned and moisture-balanced texture.
Notes
- Brine penetrates deep into turkey meat, creating a flavor explosion that transforms an ordinary bird into a culinary masterpiece.
- Kosher salt and brown sugar work magic by breaking down protein structures, ensuring incredibly juicy and tender meat.
- Rosemary, garlic, and orange peel infuse complex layers of flavor that dance across your taste buds with every single bite.
- Overnight marinating allows herbs and spices to fully develop, turning a simple turkey into a show-stopping main course.
- Careful timing prevents over-salting while guaranteeing a golden, crispy skin that crackles with deliciousness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 4500 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg