Wednesday, November 25, 2009

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.