Description
Get ready to make the juiciest, most flavorful turkey of your life! This juicy turkey brine is the secret to a tender, mouthwatering bird that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday dinner. Made with citrus, herbs, garlic, and salt, it transforms a plain turkey into a showstopping centerpiece. Whether you’re planning an easy dinner, need holiday food ideas, or want quick meal prep ahead of time, this is a must-try brine that delivers every single time. Ideal for anyone looking for Thanksgiving recipe ideas, roast turkey tips, or brining how-to.
Ingredients
1 gallon water
3/4 cup kosher salt
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 large onion, sliced
6 cloves garlic, smashed
3 bay leaves
1 tablespoon whole peppercorns
4 sprigs fresh rosemary
4 sprigs fresh thyme
4 sprigs fresh sage
2 oranges, quartered
1 lemon, quartered
4 cups ice or cold water
Instructions
1. In a large stockpot, combine water, salt, brown sugar, onion, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, and herbs.
2. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally until the salt and sugar are dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and let cool for 20 minutes.
4. Stir in ice or cold water to bring brine to a cool temperature.
5. Place the turkey in a brining bag or large container.
6. Pour brine over the turkey, ensuring it’s fully submerged.
7. Refrigerate for 12–24 hours.
8. Remove turkey from brine, rinse thoroughly under cold water.
9. Pat dry and proceed with cooking as desired.
Notes
Avoid pre-brined or kosher turkeys to prevent over-salting.
Make sure the brine is fully cooled before adding the turkey.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Brining
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion of cooked turkey
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: juicy turkey brine, thanksgiving brine, holiday turkey, turkey recipe, easy brine