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Pickle-Brine Turkey

Pickle-Brine Turkey
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Pickle-Brine Turkey is a unique holiday dish that uses pickle juice to infuse tender, juicy turkey meat with a zesty and tangy flavor. This simple brining method locks in moisture and delivers a bold, savory twist on the classic holiday turkey, creating a succulent centerpiece your family will adore.

Ingredients

Scale

Turkey

  • 1 whole turkey (12–16 pounds), fresh or fully thawed

Brine

  • 4 cups pickle juice
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/4 cup salt
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 4–6 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 2–3 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 2–3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon black peppercorns

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Brine: In a large food-safe container, combine the pickle juice, water, salt, sugar, garlic cloves, fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, bay leaves), and black peppercorns. Stir well until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved. Chill the brine until cold.
  2. Brine Your Turkey: Fully submerge the thawed turkey in the chilled brine. Cover the container and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate and tenderize the meat.
  3. Remove and Dry: Take the turkey out of the brine and discard the liquid. Pat the turkey dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture and help achieve a crispy skin when roasting.
  4. Season and Roast: Lightly season the turkey with additional pepper and fresh herbs if desired. Roast the turkey in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C), cooking approximately 13-15 minutes per pound, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  5. Rest and Carve: Allow the cooked turkey to rest for 20 to 30 minutes before carving to let the juices redistribute and keep the meat tender and moist.

Notes

  • Use a food-safe container large enough to hold the turkey and brine without leaks.
  • Always brine in the refrigerator or an ice-filled cooler to prevent any bacteria growth.
  • Do not brine for longer than 24 hours to avoid overly salty meat.
  • Pat the turkey skin dry thoroughly before roasting to achieve crispy skin.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pickle Brine Turkey, Holiday Turkey, Juicy Turkey, Tangy Turkey, Turkey Brining, Festive Turkey Recipe, Moist Turkey

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/pickle-brine-turkey/