How to Brine a Turkey

One of the biggest problems with grilling poultry,- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
especially turkey, is that the meat can become dry- 1 tablespoon dried sage
and tasteless. A great way to add moisture and- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
additional flavor is with a brine.- 2 quarts cold water
To brine a turkey you'll need to start the nightIn a large pot combine the vegetable stock, salt, and
before you plan to cook it. A good rule of thumb isherbs over medium heat. Simmer for about 15 min
to brine your bird for one hour per pound. Here'suntil the salt is dissolved. Remove from heat and
what you'll need:allow to cool. Add the water.
- a large stock pot (or another large container ofPlace the turkey in your large container, and add
your choice) and enough room in your refrigeratorenough brine to completely cover the turkey within
for itan inch of completely covering the entire bird. Now
- saltput it in the refrigerator.
- waterDon't have room in the refrigerator? A large cooler
- sugarmakes a good container for your turkey and brine. If
- seasonings (whatever you like)it's cool outside you may not need to worry about it,
Start with a clean and completely thawed turkey. Tobut if it's warm you'll want to add enough ice to keep
make the brine, mix 1 cup of salt with 1 gallon ofthe turkey cool. Monitor the temperature of the brine
water. You'll need more than that, but keep the ratioclosely during the process to make sure it stays cool.
of 1 cup salt:1 gallon water. You'll probably need 2-3When you're ready to prepare your turkey, pull it out
gallons. Add whatever seasonings you like, but don'tof the brine and rinse it off with clean, cold water.
add anything that will add additional salt. Here's aThrow it on the grill and you're good to go. The
simple brine recipe, but feel free to experiment withadditional moisture will really make a difference!
your own concoctions.Finally, be careful how you dispose of your leftover
Ingredients:brine. Remember, this is saltwater, so it'll kill your lawn.
- 2 quarts vegetable stockI usually pour it down the sink along with additional
- 1/2 cup saltclean water.