Simpler Living Blog

HOLIDAYS

Classic Turkey Brine Recipe

For super moist, flavorful turkey this year, brine that bird! Shelley, Lehman's Merchandising Assistant, has been brining her family's Thanksgiving turkey for the past couple of years, and she shared her simple recipe with us. We're passing it on to you! Brining the turkey for at least 12 hours before roasting makes it extra moist, and this recipe gives the meat a slightly sweet flavor (which Shelley says her brood loves). Try it this year - it's quick, easy and it just may become part of your Turkey Day turkey_087.tif1024x768traditions. Classic Turkey Brine You'll need:
  • 1 gallon water
  • 1 cup coarse salt (such as sea salt or pink salt)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 orange, juiced and rind finely grated
  • 1 tablespoon whole cloves
  • 1 tablespoon whole allspice
  • 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
  • 1 turkey, 12-15 lb (thaw turkey and remove giblets before brining)
  • Ice (enough to cover turkey)
  • large stockpot and/or storage container with lid (such as a 5-gallon bucket or 4-gallon bucket)
Directions: In a large stockpot, combine all ingredients except turkey and ice. Bring to a boil and stir to dissolve salt and sugar. Remove from heat and let stand 30 minutes. Chill. Place the turkey, brining liquid and ice in stockpot or lidded bucket and let stand up to 12 hours (overnight works well). Roast and feast!
Did you make this recipe?Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

0 Comments

Share Lehman's

Lehman's

People Also Enjoyed Reading

Maple Nutmeg Feather Cake

Maple Nutmeg Feather Cake

Lehman's
Even though I've lived in Europe for over thirty years now, there are still some American childhood tastes and flavours...
Learn How To Make Kimchi

Learn How To Make Kimchi

Lehman's
Discover the perks kimchi! Fermenting expert and author Kirsten K. Shockey will show you how to make this beneficial dish.
How to Make Spaghetti Noodles

How to Make Spaghetti Noodles

Lehman's
If you’ve never made homemade spaghetti noodles, you may think it’s too complicated, or maybe it’s not worth your time....