Easy & Long Turkey Brine for a Juicy Bird
This simple brine recipe creates a deliciously moist and flavorful turkey, perfect for any holiday gathering. Brining for 12-24 hours ensures maximum flavor and juiciness.
Equipment
- Large Stockpot or Brining Bag
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Roasting pan
Ingredients
Brine Ingredients
- 1 gallon Cold Water
- 1 cup Kosher Salt Do NOT use table salt
- 0.5 cup Brown Sugar, packed
- 0.25 cup Granulated Sugar
- 2 tablespoons Black Peppercorns
- 4 Bay Leaves
- 2 large Fresh Rosemary Sprigs
- 2 large Fresh Thyme Sprigs
- 1 large Onion, quartered
- 4 Garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 Orange zested and juiced
- 1 Turkey 12-14 pound
Instructions
Instructions
- In a large stockpot or brining bag, combine cold water, kosher salt, brown sugar, granulated sugar, peppercorns, bay leaves, rosemary, thyme, onion, garlic, orange zest, and orange juice. Stir until salt and sugars are dissolved.
- Submerge the turkey completely in the brine. If using a stockpot, ensure the turkey is fully covered with brine; otherwise, use a brining bag.
- Refrigerate for 12-24 hours. The longer it brines, the more flavorful and moist the turkey will be.
- Remove the turkey from the brine and rinse thoroughly under cold running water.
- Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
- Roast the turkey according to your preferred method and recipe. Allow for appropriate resting time before carving.
- Serve and enjoy your incredibly juicy and flavorful turkey!
Notes
For best results, use a food-safe container or brining bag. Adjust brine ingredients proportionally for smaller or larger turkeys. Always ensure your turkey reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.