Apple Cider-Brined Turkey with Savory Herb Gravy-How to Brine a Turkey

November 26, 2013

Brining a turkey before roasting it is one way to get a tender, moist and flavorful bird. Here are some steps for successful brining.

Ingredients

.Brine:

8 cups apple cider

1/2 cup kosher salt

2/3 cup sugar

1 tablespoon black peppercorns, coarsely crushed

1 tablespoon whole allspice, coarsely crushed

8 (1/8-inch-thick) slices peeled fresh ginger

6 whole cloves

2 bay leaves

1 (12-pound) fresh or frozen turkey, thawed
you will also need:
1 large orange or 2 small oranges, quartered

6 cups ice this is to cool off the hot brine mixture that you will cook for a few minutes to mix everything

Remaining ingredients:
These go in and around the turkey
4 garlic cloves
4 sage leaves
4 thyme sprigs
4 parsley sprigs
1 onion, quartered

1 (14-ounce) can fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and divided
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt, divided

To prepare brine, combine first 8 ingredients in a large saucepan; bring to a boil. Cook 5 minutes or until sugar and salt dissolve. Cool completely. Remove giblets and neck from turkey; and don't forget...
See the full directions on my site

Nutritions

Calories
548

Sodium
5384mg
224% DV

Fat
43g
67% DV

Protein
22g
44% DV

Carbs
28g
9% DV

Fiber
5g
22% DV