What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This turkey brine recipe is sure to make your holiday meal unforgettable, keeping your bird juicy and flavorful. Its simplicity and flexibility make it a must-try for any home cook. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, with just a few common ingredients. The brine locks in moisture, ensuring every bite is tender and delicious. Plus, you can customize the flavors to match your personal taste, adding herbs, spices, or even a touch of sweetness.
Recipe
A well-crafted turkey brine is essential for achieving a juicy, flavorful bird. This simple yet effective brine recipe guarantees your turkey stays moist and absorbs a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
1 gallon water
1 cup kosher salt
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon black peppercorns
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon dried sage
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 gallon ice water
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine 1 gallon of water, salt, sugar, peppercorns, rosemary, thyme, sage, and oregano.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve completely.
- Remove the pot from heat and let the brine cool to room temperature.
- Once cooled, add 1 gallon of ice water to the brine.
- Submerge the turkey in the brine, making certain it is fully covered.
- Refrigerate the turkey in the brine for 12 to 24 hours.
- Remove the turkey from the brine, rinse it thoroughly under cold water, and pat it dry before cooking.
Notes:
For best results, use a fresh or thawed turkey. Avoid pre-brined or self-basting turkeys. Adjust the brine time based on the size of the turkey—larger birds may require the full 24 hours.
Equipment:
Large pot, measuring cups, refrigerator-safe container or brining bag.
Time:
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes (brining only)
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Suitable for 1 turkey (12-16 pounds).
Nutrition
Turkey brine primarily consists of salt, sugar, and water, with minimal calories and macronutrients. Here are the nutritional details per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 5 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0 g |
| Sodium | 590 mg |
| Total Carbs | 1 g |
| Sugars | 1 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing brined turkey with classic side dishes like creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables, as they complement the savory flavors so well. Adding a tangy cranberry sauce or a fresh green salad can balance the richness, making the meal feel complete. Don’t forget a warm loaf of bread or buttery cornbread to round it all out!
Side Dish Ideas
When you’ve got a perfectly brined turkey ready to roast, you’ll want sides that complement its juicy flavor without stealing the spotlight. I always go for classic mashed potatoes—creamy and buttery—because they’re comforting and pair so well with turkey. Roasted vegetables, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, add a nice crunch and balance. Stuffing, whether homemade or from a trusted recipe, is a must for me—it’s hearty and flavorful. Finally, cranberry sauce brings a tangy sweetness that ties everything together. These sides keep the meal simple but delicious, letting the turkey shine while making the whole dinner feel complete.
Complementary Flavors
Since a well-brined turkey is already packed with savory, herby goodness, you’ll want sides that enhance those flavors without competing. I love pairing it with roasted garlic mashed potatoes—they’re creamy, rich, and let the turkey shine. A tangy cranberry sauce adds a pop of brightness, balancing the richness. Don’t forget roasted veggies like carrots or Brussels sprouts; their caramelized sweetness complements the savory notes perfectly. Fresh, herby stuffing or cornbread dressing ties everything together. Last, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette refreshes the palate. These sides create a harmonious meal that highlights the star—your perfectly brined turkey.
