Mario Batali's Turkey Brine

Everything you need to brine a turkey.

skill level

Easy

time

Over 120min

servings

For 1 Turkey

cost

Contributed by : Mario Batali

Mario shares his secret recipe for turkey brine.

things you'll need.

ingredients

kitchenware

step by step directions. We've Made Cooking As Easy As 1-2-3! print recipe

step 1

ingredients 1 gallon water
1 cup sea salt
1 bunch fresh rosemary
1 bunch sage
1 tablespoon dried thyme
2 cup maple syrup
10 cloves garlic (smashed with skin on)

instructions In a large stock pot, combine the water, sea salt, rosemary, sage, thyme, maple syrup and garlic cloves. Bring to a boil, and stir frequently to be sure salt is dissolved. Remove from heat, and let cool to room temperature.
step 2

ingredients 1 gallon ice water
2 cup apple cider

instructions When the broth mixture is cool, pour it into a clean 5 gallon bucket. Stir in the ice water and cider.
step 3

ingredients

instructions Place the turkey, breast down, into the brine. Make sure that the cavity gets filled. Place the bucket in the refrigerator overnight but no longer than 12 hours. Remove the turkey and carefully drain off the excess brine and pat dry. Discard excess brine.
step 4

ingredients

instructions Cook the turkey as desired reserving the drippings for gravy. Keep in mind that brined turkeys cook about 5-10% faster so watch the temperature. I like 160 degrees F at the thickest part of the thigh. Always be sure and let the cooked turkey rest 20-30 minutes before carving.
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