# My Favorite Turkey Brine

> I brine my Thanksgiving turkey every year. This is my favorite combo of flavors! Makes turkey incredibly moist and flavorful.

**Prep time:** 10 minutes
**Cook time:** 15 minutes
**Total time:** 25 minutes
**Yields:** 18 servings (enough for 1 turkey)
**Brining time:** 16-24 hours
**Storage:** Use immediately after preparing

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## Ingredients

- 3 c. apple juice or apple cider
- 2 gallons cold water
- 4 tbsp. fresh rosemary leaves
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 c. kosher salt
- 2 c. brown sugar
- 3 tbsp. peppercorns
- 5 whole bay leaves
- Peel of three large oranges

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## Shopping List

### 🍎 Beverages
- [ ] 3 cups apple juice or apple cider

### 🌿 Fresh Herbs & Produce
- [ ] 4 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves
- [ ] 5 cloves garlic
- [ ] 3 large oranges (for peel)

### 🧂 Spices & Pantry
- [ ] 1 1/2 cups kosher salt
- [ ] 2 cups brown sugar
- [ ] 3 tablespoons peppercorns
- [ ] 5 whole bay leaves

### 🥤 Other
- [ ] 2 gallons cold water
- [ ] 1 large brining bag or pot

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## Instructions

1. **Combine and boil.** Combine all the ingredients in a large pot and bring to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve. Turn off heat, cover and allow the brine to cool completely.

2. **Brine the turkey.** Place the uncooked turkey in a large brining bag or pot, pour in the brine solution to cover the turkey, and refrigerate for 16 to 24 hours.

3. **Rinse turkey.** Before roasting, remove the turkey from the brine (discard the brine) and submerge the turkey in a pot or sink filled with fresh, cold water for 15 minutes. This removes excess salt from the outside.

4. **Prepare for roasting.** Remove the turkey from the water, pat dry, and cook according to your favorite turkey recipe.

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## Notes

**By Ree Drummond**
**Published: Oct 11, 2021**

The orange peel adds a subtle citrus note that complements the herbs beautifully. Make sure to plan ahead - the turkey needs at least 16 hours in the brine for best results!