This simple turkey brine is the key to your best bird yet.
Simple Turkey Brine Ingredients
Here's what you'll need to make this quick and easy turkey brine:
· Water: This turkey brine starts with a gallon of water.
· Salt: Two cups of kosher salt should be enough to permeate the turkey, adding tons of savory flavor.
· Sugar: Dark brown sugar adds sweetness and complexity.
· Spices and seasonings: This simple turkey brine gets its irresistible flavor from bay leaves, black peppercorns, dried rosemary, dried thyme, and whole cloves.
How to Make Simple Turkey Brine
You'll find the full, step-by-step recipe below — but here's a brief overview of what you can expect when you make this simple turkey brine:
1. Boil: Bring the water to a boil, then add the salt and brown sugar. Stir until dissolved.
2. Season: Add bay leaves, peppercorns, rosemary, thyme, and cloves. Reduce to a simmer.
3. Cool: Remove from the heat and let cool completely before using.
How to Use This Turkey Brine
When your simple turkey brine is ready to use, here's what to do:
1. Find a large, non-reactive container that's large enough to hold your turkey. A plastic bucket is a great choice.
2. Pour the brine into the container, then place the thawed turkey in the brine. Add just enough cold water to completely cover the turkey with liquid.
3. Place the container in the refrigerator (never brine at room temperature).
Learn more: How to Brine a Turkey
How Long to Brine Turkey
Brine the turkey for at least 8 hours, but no more than 24 hours. When you're done brining, let the brined turkey rest on a rack for about an hour before cooking it according to your recipe.
Allrecipes Community Tips and Praise
"I would add garlic next time, but that's a personal preference for our family," according to Aimee. "It made the turkey just how I wanted it (tender, juicy etc)."
"I was pleased with the experience and the family said it was really good," raves Aimee. "One of the best things about this? It wasn't a list of oddball ingredients that I would only use for this single recipe. Everything was on hand and it was easy peasy."
"The amount here I think is perfect for a smaller turkey, but for a larger [turkey] you need to double it," says Corrissa Rodriguez. "That's what I did. I substituted the second gallon of water with apple juice and it was the best decision of my life!!!"
Editorial contributions by Corey Williams
