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The BEST Turkey Brine for Smoking

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This Turkey Brine Recipe is the secret weapon for a succulent, juicy, and flavor-packed smoked turkey. 

Tip

Prepare turkey brine recipe (16-24 hours ahead): After your turkey has completely thawed, it's time to immerse it in a flavorful brining solution. 

Ingredients

– 2 gallons cold water – 3 cups apple cider – 1 cup kosher salt (or 3/4 cups table salt) – 2 cups sugar – 4 tablespoons fresh, whole rosemary leaves – 5 cloves garlic, minced – 3 tablespoons whole black peppercorns – 5 whole bay leaves – 4 sprigs fresh thyme – 1 large red onion, chopped – zest of 3 large oranges

In a big, sturdy pot (12 to 16 quarts), combine water, apple cider, salt, sugar, rosemary, garlic, peppercorns, bay leaves, thyme, red onion, and orange zest.

1

Fire up the heat and bring the brine to a gentle boil. Stir it to make sure the salt and sugar dissolve into the mix.

2

Once your brine is cool and ready, it's time to let your turkey soak. Get yourself a large brining bag or a spacious pot.

3

Gently place your turkey into the brine solution. Now, pop it into the refrigerator, and let it soak in all those wonderful flavors for 16 to 24 hours. That's roughly 1 ½ hours per pound. 

4

Carefully take turkey out of the brine. Submerge it in a pot or sink filled with fresh, cold water for 15 minutes. This will wash away any excess salt from the outside.

5

Then, take it out and place it on a cutting board. Give it a gentle pat down with paper towels until it's nice and dry.

5

Now, you're all set to continue with your flavor injector (if using) and smoking. Whether you're using a smoker, grill, or oven, your beautifully brined turkey is primed and ready!

5

Now, you're all set to continue with your flavor injector (if using) and smoking. Whether you're using a smoker, grill, or oven, your beautifully brined turkey is primed and ready!

5

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