Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones, share gratitude, and indulge in a feast that warms the heart and soul. At the center of this festive celebration lies the star of the show: a perfectly cooked turkey. To elevate your Thanksgiving table this year, try the Citrus Turkey Brine—a recipe that infuses your bird with bright citrus flavors, fragrant herbs, and a touch of holiday magic. This brining technique ensures a tender, juicy turkey that will impress your guests and create unforgettable memories.
Thanksgiving turkey recipe, how to brine a turkey, and citrus-infused turkey brine, this method is your secret to hosting a delicious and stress-free celebration. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or hosting for the first time, this foolproof recipe brings a burst of flavor and a festive twist to your Thanksgiving feast. Let the aromas of oranges, lemons, and herbs fill your kitchen and set the stage for a holiday to remember.
Ingredients
For the Brine:
- 1 gallon (4 liters) cold water.
- 1 gallon (4 liters) apple cider (or additional water for a lighter taste).
- 1 cup kosher salt.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar.
- 4 oranges (halved and juiced, keep the peels).
- 3 lemons (halved and juiced, keep the peels).
- 2 limes (halved and juiced, keep the peels).
- 6 garlic cloves (smashed).
- 1 large onion (quartered).
- 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns.
- 1 tablespoon whole allspice berries.
- 4 bay leaves.
- 6-8 sprigs fresh thyme.
- 4 sprigs rosemary.
- 1 tablespoon red chili flakes (optional, for a subtle kick).
For the Turkey:
- 1 whole turkey (12-16 pounds), thawed if frozen
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for roasting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Brine Base:
- In a large stockpot, combine the water, apple cider, salt, and brown sugar.
- Heat over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the salt and sugar dissolve completely. Do not let it boil.
- Infuse the Brine:
- Remove the pot from the heat and let the liquid cool slightly.
- Add the orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, and their respective peels to the pot.
- Stir in the garlic, onion, peppercorns, allspice berries, bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and chili flakes (if using).
- Cool the Brine:
- Allow the brine to cool completely to room temperature. You can speed this process by adding ice cubes or refrigerating it.
- Brine the Turkey:
- Place the turkey in a large brining bag or a clean, food-safe bucket. Pour the brine over the turkey, ensuring it is fully submerged.
- Seal the bag tightly or cover the container, and refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
- Prepare for Roasting:
- After brining, remove the turkey from the brine and discard the liquid.
- Rinse the turkey thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt, then pat it dry with paper towels.
- Rub the skin with olive oil or melted butter and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Roast the Turkey:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Roast the turkey according to its weight (approximately 15 minutes per pound) or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
- Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
Pair this citrus-brined turkey with roasted vegetables, buttery mashed potatoes, or a tangy cranberry sauce to balance the citrusy, savory flavors.
Enjoy your beautifully moist and flavorful turkey.
# this citrus-brined turkey #Thanksgiving