Ultimate Thanksgiving Turkey Brine Recipe

Welcome to a Thanksgiving tradition like no other – the Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey Brine recipe that promises a bird that’s crispy on the outside and oh-so-juicy on the inside. Picture a golden turkey centerpiece that steals the show and melts in your mouth with every bite – that’s the magic of this brine.

Dry brining is a game-changer, and with this recipe, you’ll see how effortless it is to achieve mouthwatering results. The blend of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage, paired with garlic, lemon, and butter, creates a symphony of flavors that will have your kitchen smelling like Thanksgiving bliss. Your family will be coming back for seconds, guaranteed.

Whether it’s your first time hosting Thanksgiving or you’re a seasoned pro, this Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey Brine will elevate your feast to new heights. With simple ingredients and a little patience, you’ll create a turkey that’s not just a meal but a cherished memory. So, gather around, savor the delicious rewards, and let this recipe become your go-to holiday favorite.

Quick Benefits

• Dry brining seasons the meat deeply, drawing out moisture that reabsorbs, making the turkey juicy and flavorful.
• For best results, let the brined turkey rest uncovered in the fridge for 24 hours after removing plastic wrap.
• Onion, lemon, carrots, and celery infuse the meat with moisture and aromatic flavor while roasting.
• Fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage add robust flavor; just chop finely before mixing into the brine.

Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Thanksgiving Turkey Brine Recipe Recipe

• Dry brining seasons the meat deeply, drawing out moisture that reabsorbs, making the turkey juicy and flavorful.
• For best results, let the brined turkey rest uncovered in the fridge for 24 hours after removing plastic wrap.
• Onion, lemon, carrots, and celery infuse the meat with moisture and aromatic flavor while roasting.
• Yes, fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage add robust flavor; just chop finely before mixing into the brine.
• Melted butter ensures golden skin, while chicken stock keeps the pan moist and boosts juiciness during roasting.

Ingredients for Ultimate Thanksgiving Turkey Brine Recipe

Dry Brine (per 5 pounds of turkey)

• 1 1/2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage (equal parts)
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar

Turkey and Aromatics

• 1 1/2 cups chicken stock
• 1 whole turkey (12 to 15 pounds), thawed, neck and giblets removed
• 1 lemon, quartered
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 medium yellow onion, quartered
• 2 celery sticks
• 4 carrot sticks
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Pro Tips for Ultimate Thanksgiving Turkey Brine Recipe

Dry brining seasons the meat deeply, drawing out moisture that reabsorbs, making the turkey juicy and flavorful. For best results, let the brined turkey rest uncovered in the fridge for 24 hours after removing plastic wrap. Onion, lemon, carrots, and celery infuse the meat with moisture and aromatic flavor while roasting. Yes, fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage add robust flavor; just chop finely before mixing into the brine. Melted butter ensures golden skin, while chicken stock keeps the pan moist and boosts juiciness during roasting.

How to Make Ultimate Thanksgiving Turkey Brine Recipe

Step 1: Dry Brine Preparation

Use paper towels to pat dry the thawed turkey, removing any excess moisture.

Step 2: Make Dry Brine

Mix kosher salt, fresh herbs, minced garlic, black pepper, and brown sugar in a small bowl.

Step 3: Apply Brine Inside

Massage 1 tablespoon of the dry brine mixture inside the turkey cavity to ensure even coating.

Step 4: Apply Brine Externally

Evenly coat the turkey with the remaining dry brine by gently massaging it over the entire surface.

Step 5: Rest in Refrigerator (Covered)

Position the brined turkey on a rack in a roasting pan, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 24 hours.

Step 6: Rest in Refrigerator (Uncovered)

Remove the plastic wrap after 24 hours and refrigerate the turkey uncovered for another 24 hours to dry the skin.

Storage Tips

After preparing the Thanksgiving turkey using the dry brining method, it is important to let the turkey cool to room temperature before storing. To store the cooked turkey, place the meat in a tightly sealed container or wrap it with foil to prevent drying out. Drizzling some of the pan juices over the sliced turkey before refrigerating will help lock in extra moisture, ensuring the meat stays juicy when reheated. For leftovers, consider carving the turkey and freezing the slices flat in labeled zipper bags by part, adding some pan juices or stock to keep the meat juicy during reheating. Thawed turkey slices can be added to salads, soups, or sandwiches for delicious meals.

To enhance the flavors of the turkey, you can add apple slices to the roasting pan for a touch of fall sweetness, along with fresh sage sprigs and even a whole peeled shallot for a milder onion flavor. You can also use rainbow carrots for colorful and visually appealing presentation at the table. Remember that dried herbs can be substituted for fresh ones, but use a smaller amount to avoid overpowering the dish. Adding a twist like using orange instead of lemon, or incorporating a bit of cayenne or smoked paprika to the brine for heat, can further customize the flavor profile of the turkey.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried versions can be used, but in smaller amounts to prevent overpowering the dish. You can also try substituting orange for lemon for a slightly different citrus twist. To add some heat, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into the brine for a spicy kick.

If you’re looking to enhance the flavor profile, consider adding apple slices to the roasting pan for a hint of sweetness. Sprigs of fresh sage and even a whole peeled shallot can be added for additional layers of flavor. Rainbow carrots not only provide a pop of color but also make for an eye-catching presentation on the table.

For those who prefer a milder onion flavor, swap out the yellow onion for a whole peeled shallot. Feel free to get creative with the ingredients to tailor the recipe to your preferences while still maintaining the essence of a delicious Thanksgiving turkey.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try presenting the carved turkey on a beautiful platter garnished with fresh sage sprigs, lemon slices, and colorful roasted rainbow carrots for a festive and visually appealing presentation. Drizzle some of the pan juices over the sliced turkey to keep it moist and flavorful until it reaches the table. Pair this succulent turkey with classic Thanksgiving sides like creamy mashed potatoes, savory cornbread stuffing, and crisp green beans for a complete holiday feast that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

To elevate your leftovers, consider incorporating the juicy turkey slices into a hearty salad with mixed greens, dried cranberries, and toasted nuts for a refreshing post-Thanksgiving meal. The turkey can also be used to make delicious sandwiches with cranberry sauce or gravy for a comforting treat. Freeze any extra meat in labeled zipper bags with a bit of stock for juicy and convenient reheating later on. This versatile and flavorful turkey recipe is sure to become a beloved tradition at your holiday table year after year.

FAQs for Ultimate Thanksgiving Turkey Brine Recipe

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh in the brine?

Yes, you can use dried herbs as a substitute for fresh ones. Just remember to use a smaller amount of dried herbs compared to fresh herbs.

How can I store leftover turkey to keep it moist?

After letting the turkey cool to room temperature, store it in a tightly sealed container or wrap it with foil to prevent drying. Drizzle some pan juices over the slices before refrigerating to lock in extra moisture.

What can I do with the leftover turkey?

Carve the leftovers and freeze them flat in zipper bags labeled by part. Adding some pan juices or stock into the bag will keep the meat juicy when reheating. Thawed slices can be added to salads, soups, or sandwiches.

Why is dry brining preferred over wet brining for this recipe?

Dry brining is preferred for this recipe as it is easier to execute compared to traditional wet brining. It seasons the meat deeply, drawing out moisture that reabsorbs, resulting in a juicy and flavorful turkey.

Conclusion

As you prepare to embark on your Thanksgiving culinary journey, remember that the heart of the feast lies in a perfectly cooked turkey. This Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey Brine recipe promises a flavorful and succulent bird that will undoubtedly steal the show at your holiday table. The aromatic blend of herbs, citrus, and savory ingredients will elevate your turkey to new heights of deliciousness, ensuring that each bite is tender and bursting with flavor.

So go ahead, embrace the tradition of dry brining and unlock the secret to a juicy and delectable Thanksgiving turkey. Let the scents wafting from your kitchen bring everyone together, creating lasting memories and cherished moments around the table. With a little patience and a lot of love, you’ll soon be savoring a perfectly roasted turkey that will have your guests coming back for seconds and thirds. Cheers to a Thanksgiving filled with warmth, gratitude, and the unforgettable taste of Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey Brine.

Ultimate Thanksgiving Turkey Brine Recipe

“Transform your Thanksgiving table with this easy dry-brined turkey recipe, promising golden crisp skin and juicy, flavorful meat every time.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time45 min

Cook Time~ undefined

Total Time45 min

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings12 Servings (1 whole turkey (12 to 15 pounds))

Ingredients

Dry Brine (per 5 pounds of turkey)

• 1 1/2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage (equal parts)
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar

Turkey and Aromatics

• 1 1/2 cups chicken stock
• 1 whole turkey (12 to 15 pounds), thawed, neck and giblets removed
• 1 lemon, quartered
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 medium yellow onion, quartered
• 2 celery sticks
• 4 carrot sticks
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Dry Brine Preparation: Use paper towels to pat dry the thawed turkey, removing any excess moisture.
2. Make Dry Brine: Mix kosher salt, fresh herbs, minced garlic, black pepper, and brown sugar in a small bowl.
3. Apply Brine Inside: Massage 1 tablespoon of the dry brine mixture inside the turkey cavity to ensure even coating.
4. Apply Brine Externally: Evenly coat the turkey with the remaining dry brine by gently massaging it over the entire surface.
5. Rest in Refrigerator (Covered): Position the brined turkey on a rack in a roasting pan, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 24 hours.
6. Rest in Refrigerator (Uncovered): Remove the plastic wrap after 24 hours and refrigerate the turkey uncovered for another 24 hours to dry the skin.