Description
Wet brining transforms turkey from dry and bland to juicy and flavorful by soaking it in a seasoned saltwater solution. It’s perfect for holiday meals and ensures every bite is tender and rich with aromatic flavor.
Ingredients
1 gallon water (plus more as needed)
1 cup kosher salt (Diamond Crystal preferred)
½ cup brown sugar
1 tbsp whole peppercorns
4–5 garlic cloves, smashed
Zest and juice of 2 oranges
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
3 sprigs fresh rosemary
3 sprigs fresh thyme
2 bay leaves
1 onion, quartered
Instructions
1. Combine water, salt, and sugar in a large stockpot. Bring to a simmer until dissolved, then cool completely.
2. Add aromatics—citrus, herbs, garlic—and stir. Pour brine into a brining bag or 5-gallon bucket.
3. Submerge the turkey breast-side down. Seal or cover and refrigerate for 12–24 hours, rotating once halfway through.
4. On roast day, remove turkey and pat dry thoroughly. Allow one hour air drying in fridge, uncovered.
5. Cook using your preferred method. Enjoy the juicier, flavorful result!
Notes
Never brine over 24 hours to avoid mushy texture.
Keep turkey cold throughout brining.
Don’t reuse brine due to food safety.
Pat turkey dry before cooking for crispy skin.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 3 hrs
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Brining
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: turkey, brine, Thanksgiving, holiday, juicy turkey