Forktionary

Alton Brown's Brined Turkey Recipe

Unlock the secret to unbelievably juicy and flavorful turkey with Alton Brown's foolproof brining method! This recipe transforms a simple turkey into a culinary masterpiece. The salt water brine magically alters the turkey's cellular structure, locking in moisture and infusing the meat with incredible depth of flavor from aromatic herbs and spices. From the moment you create the fragrant brine to the rich, flavorful gravy, this recipe is a symphony of taste that will impress even the most discerning palates. Prepare for rave reviews – this is the best roasted turkey you'll ever serve! Easily adaptable to chicken too!

Prep Time 60 mins
Cook Time 3060 mins
Calories 666.1 kcal
Protein 158g
Rating 4.1 (16 Reviews)
Alton Brown's Brined Turkey 113

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Alton Brown's Brined Turkey

  • 1 whole turkey (14-16 pounds)
  • 1 cup kosher salt
  • ½ cup light brown sugar
  • 1 gallon vegetable stock
  • 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
  • 1½ teaspoons allspice berries
  • 1½ teaspoons candied ginger
  • 1 gallon heavily iced water
  • 1 red apple, quartered (optional)
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 6 sprigs fresh sage (optional)
  • Canola oil, as needed for rubbing
  • 2 cups chopped celery
  • 4 bay leaves
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme

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How to Make Alton Brown's Brined Turkey

  1. In a large stockpot, combine 1 gallon of water, 1 cup kosher salt, ½ cup brown sugar, 2 cups chopped celery, 1 cup chopped onion, 4 bay leaves, 1 tablespoon black peppercorns, 2 sprigs fresh thyme, and 2 sprigs fresh rosemary.
  2. Bring the brine to a boil over high heat, stirring until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved.
  3. Remove from heat and let the brine cool completely. This is crucial to prevent cooking the turkey before roasting.
  4. Place the turkey in a large food-safe container or a large zip-top bag that can hold the turkey and the brine. Ensure the turkey is fully submerged in the brine.
  5. Refrigerate the turkey in the brine for at least 12 hours, or up to 24 hours. Longer brining times result in a more flavorful and moist turkey.
  6. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
  7. Remove the turkey from the brine and rinse thoroughly under cold water. Pat the turkey completely dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely.
  8. Place the turkey in a roasting pan, breast side up.
  9. Roast the turkey for approximately 3-4 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F (74°C).
  10. Let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful turkey.
  11. Carve and serve with your favorite gravy and sides.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

404 g

Sugar

42g

Fat

43g

Carbs

3g

Recipe Categories (Choose a category and find related recipes!)

Main Courses Main Dish / Dinner Poultry Turkey Recipes American Gluten Free Fall Recipes Holiday Recipes

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Preparation Occasion Main Dish Poultry 1 Day Or More Holiday Event Turkey Oamc Freezer Make Ahead Meat Whole Turkey