So I brine a turkey every year because it makes me happy. What is Brining?   Brining involves soaking a turkey in a very salty solution for a certain length of time, long enough for the salt to get into the turkey and actually make the meat so yummy. It doesn’t turn it into a salty mess, either. It just results in a juicy, fantastic turkey. You will Sing & Dance

You can buy pre-made brining solutions. The one that I have trusted comes from The Pioneer Woman.  It works every time and nothing needs to be changed in my opinion.  

Let’s Brine!

3 c. apple juice or apple cider

2 gallons cold water

4 tbsp. fresh rosemary leaves

5 cloves garlic, minced

1 1/2 c. kosher salt

2 c. brown sugar

3 tbsp. peppercorns

5 whole bay leaves

Peel of three large oranges

Brine Bag or Tub to submerge the turkey

Combine all the ingredients in a large pot and bring to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve. Turn off heat, cover and allow the brine to cool completely. 

Place the uncooked turkey in a large brining bag or pot, pour in the brine solution to cover the turkey, and refrigerate for 16 to 24 hours. 

Before roasting, remove the turkey from the brine (discard the brine) and submerge the turkey in a pot or sink filled with fresh, cold water for 15 minutes. This removes excess salt from the outside. 

Remove the turkey from the water, pat dry, and cook according to your normal roasting method.