Brining the Bird

On my very messy garden room table, I decorated a small tree.


This is going to someone that can't have a real tree.


Topped it with a big butterfly and placed smaller ones all over it.


If you want to brine your turkey there is still plenty of time. Just put two gallons of water in a big pot.


Add 2 cups of apple cider.


2 cups of kosher salt.


2 cups of brown sugar.


Some peppercorns.


Bay leaves and thyme.


The rind from a whole orange. Bring this to a boil and then let it cool completely.


Using a large heavy duty hefty bag...


Put your turkey inside and pour the cooled brine over it.


Place the bag in a bowl and place it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook it. Turn it a couple of times during this time. Remove from the brine and rinse with cool water. Discard the brine. This imparts more flavor and juiciness to the turkey.

Comments

brokenteepee said…
I'm not cooking the bird so I am safe...but if I ever do.
I misread the title of your post as "BRAINing the Bird" and thought to myself "OMG, I know Jaz cooks from scratch, but don't tell me that she kills her own turkey?!?" Glad you don't go that far!
Kelly said…
I discovered this process last year. It really does make for a better bird. I just got this years turkey into the brine; he's in a cooler though. He was too big for the fridge.
The tree is lovely.
That tree really says CHRISTMAS!
Have a really great day now!
Christer.
Birgit said…
I wonder if that works also with chicken...

Happy Thanksgiving -- and a BIG thanks to you for always sharing such wonderful photos, stories, and recipes. :) :) :)

Hugs,
Birgit
Divaeva said…
What a beautiful tree :) I leave the bird prep and cookin' to my roomate - I have festive cocktail duty! Bright Thanksgiving Blessings!
Sharon Day said…
Yummy idea! Have a super good T-giving!
Hibiscus Moon said…
that butterful on your tree is gorgeous. ENjoy your Thanksgiving!