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Best Turkey Brine Recipe

Best Turkey Brine Recipe for Unbeatable Juiciness and Flavor

Discover the Best Turkey Brine Recipe to ensure your turkey is succulent and full of flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Brining Time 14 hours
Total Time 14 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 1 turkey
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 1700
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Brine Base
  • 14 lb Turkey Ensure giblets and neck are removed for a juicy brine experience.
  • 2 gallons Liquid (Apple Cider/Water) Using apple cider enhances sweetness.
  • 1 cup Coarse Kosher Salt Essential for breaking down meat proteins.
  • 1 cup Brown Sugar Adds sweetness while helping retain moisture.
For the Flavor Boost
  • 8 cloves Garlic (smashed) Infuses rich flavor.
  • 2 units Oranges (juiced and halved) Adds citrusy kick and sweetness.
  • 2 units Lemons (juiced and halved) Complements the orange juice.
  • 4 tbsp Peppercorns Adds a warm and peppery note.
  • 4 units Bay Leaves Provides depth and aroma.
  • 1 handful Fresh Herbs (e.g., rosemary, thyme, sage, parsley) Infuse aromatic flavors.

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Brining container
  • Measuring Cups
  • Mixing spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Make the Brine Base: In a large saucepan, combine 8 cups of apple cider or water with 1 cup of coarse kosher salt and 1 cup of brown sugar. Stir over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil, allowing the salt and sugar to dissolve—this should take about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let the brine cool to room temperature.
  2. Add the Aromatics: Pour the cooled brine into a sturdy brining container. Add the remaining 16 cups of apple cider or water, smashed garlic cloves, fresh herbs, peppercorns, and juice from the halved oranges and lemons, along with the squeezed fruit halves. Stir well.
  3. Brine the Turkey: Submerge the cleaned 14 lb turkey into the brine, ensuring it is fully covered. Seal the container and refrigerate for about 14 hours.
  4. Rinse the Turkey: After brining, remove the turkey from the brine and rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt.
  5. Prepare the Turkey for Cooking: Pat the rinsed turkey dry with paper towels and season as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1turkeyCalories: 1700kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 120gFat: 80gSaturated Fat: 25gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 40gCholesterol: 300mgSodium: 3500mgPotassium: 800mgSugar: 20gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Always rinse your turkey thoroughly after brining to prevent it from becoming overly salty. Use fresh herbs for more flavor.

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