Succulent Brown Sugar Turkey Brine
Transform your Thanksgiving centerpiece into a savory wonder with this exquisite Succulent Brown Sugar Turkey Brine. Designed to infuse your turkey with a subtle sweetness, this brine promises to deliver a bird that is juicy, tender, and full of natural flavors without overpowering herbs or spices. This versatile recipe works splendidly for a turkey weighing up to 20 pounds. To ensure safety and convenience, consider using a food-safe picnic cooler for brining, especially if you foresee regular use. The recipe calls for kosher salt to maintain the ideal salt balance. The inclusion of garlic is highly recommended to elevate the flavor profile. Upon completion of the brining process, you can proceed with your preferred cooking method to achieve a golden-brown exterior and juicy interior.
32
Servings
10
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
water
32 cups (warm)
kosher salt
1 cup (none)
light brown sugar
1 1/2 cups (well-packed)
black peppercorns
2 tablespoons (none)
garlic
3 to 4 tablespoons (coarsely chopped or sliced into thirds)
Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons (optional)
whole turkey
1 (up to 20 pounds)
Instructions
1
1. In a large, food-safe container or bucket, combine the warm water with the kosher salt and brown sugar. Stir vigorously until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved and the solution is clear.
2
2. Incorporate the black peppercorns, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce into the solution, stirring to integrate the flavors thoroughly.
3
3. Allow the brine to cool to room temperature, ensuring it is no longer warm.
4
4. Wash the turkey thoroughly, both inside and out, with cold water to remove any impurities.
5
5. Submerge the turkey completely in the brine. If the liquid does not fully cover the turkey, start by placing it breast-side up, and turn it once after a few hours for even brining.
6
6. Refrigerate the turkey in the brine for 24 hours, ensuring it remains at a safe temperature.
7
7. After brining, remove the turkey and rinse it thoroughly under cold running water to eliminate excess brine.
8
8. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. If not cooking immediately, cover the turkey and refrigerate until ready to prepare. If desired, continue with your favorite turkey recipe.
Nutrition Information
0g
Fat
3g
Carbs
0g
Protein
2400mg
Sodium
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary benefit of using the Succulent Brown Sugar Turkey Brine?
The brine is designed to infuse the turkey with a subtle sweetness, ensuring the bird is juicy, tender, and full of natural flavors without using overpowering herbs.
How many servings does this brine recipe provide?
This recipe is calculated for 32 servings.
What size turkey is this brine recipe suitable for?
This brine recipe works perfectly for a whole turkey weighing up to 20 pounds.
How long should the turkey be kept in the brine?
The turkey should be refrigerated in the brine solution for 24 hours.
Why is kosher salt recommended for this brine?
Kosher salt is used to maintain the ideal salt balance throughout the brining process.
What is the calorie count per serving for this brine?
There are approximately 10 calories per serving.
How much sodium is in each serving of the brine?
Each serving contains 2400mg of sodium.
Is Worcestershire sauce a mandatory ingredient?
No, Worcestershire sauce is listed as an optional ingredient in this recipe.
How much brown sugar is needed for the recipe?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 cups of well-packed light brown sugar.
What preparation is required for the garlic?
The garlic should be coarsely chopped or sliced into thirds; 3 to 4 tablespoons are recommended.
Should the brine be hot when the turkey is added?
No, the brine must be allowed to cool to room temperature and should no longer be warm before submerging the turkey.
What type of container is recommended for brining?
A large, food-safe container, bucket, or a food-safe picnic cooler is recommended.
Do I need to wash the turkey before brining?
Yes, you should wash the turkey thoroughly inside and out with cold water to remove impurities before brining.
What should I do if the brine does not fully cover the turkey?
Place the turkey breast-side up and turn it once after a few hours to ensure even brining.
Should I rinse the turkey after it finishes brining?
Yes, rinse the turkey thoroughly under cold running water after removing it from the brine to eliminate excess salt.
How much water is used in the brine?
The recipe calls for 32 cups of warm water.
What are the total carbohydrates per serving?
There are 3g of carbohydrates per serving.
Does this brine contain any fat or protein?
No, the nutritional profile shows 0g of fat and 0g of protein.
What is the purpose of the black peppercorns?
Black peppercorns are added to the solution to help integrate savory flavors into the brine.
Can I use this recipe for holiday cooking?
Yes, it is tagged for Thanksgiving and holiday cooking as a way to enhance your centerpiece bird.
What is the very first step in preparing the brine?
Combine warm water with kosher salt and brown sugar in a large container and stir vigorously until fully dissolved.
How should the turkey be dried after rinsing?
Pat the turkey dry with paper towels after rinsing.
What should I do if I am not cooking the turkey immediately after brining?
Cover the turkey and keep it refrigerated until you are ready to prepare it.
How much kosher salt is required?
The recipe requires 1 cup of kosher salt.
Does this recipe use any fresh herbs?
No, this specific recipe focuses on brown sugar, garlic, and peppercorns rather than herbs.
How much garlic is used in the brine?
The recipe uses 3 to 4 tablespoons of garlic.
Is there any fiber in this brine recipe?
No, the fiber content is listed as null.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include turkey brine, thanksgiving, savory, browning, juicy turkey, natural flavors, and holiday cooking.
What is the desired outcome for the turkey's exterior?
The brine helps achieve a golden-brown exterior once the turkey is cooked.
Is the garlic optional?
While not labeled optional, the description states garlic is 'highly recommended' to elevate the flavor profile.