Herbed Citrus Dry Brine for Turkey

🕒 Prep: 30 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 10
★★★★★
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If you're looking to elevate your turkey game this holiday season, this Herbed Citrus Dry Brine is your ticket to success. Infused with the vibrant zest of citrus and aromatic herbs, it's a simple, foolproof way to ensure a moist, flavorful bird.

Ingredients for Herbed Citrus Dry Brine for Turkey

Kosher salt is the backbone of our dry brine, helping to tenderize the meat while enhancing its natural flavors. Brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness that balances the saltiness and helps with browning. The lemon zest and orange zest infuse the turkey with a fresh, citrusy aroma that feels festive and bright. Dried thyme and dried rosemary bring in earthy, herbal notes for depth and complexity. Finally, black pepper adds a subtle kick to round it all out.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a deeper flavor, opt for fresh herbs if you have them on hand.
  • Don't skip the resting period in the fridge; it allows the skin to dry out, resulting in a crispier finish.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brine mix.

Serving Suggestions

This turkey pairs beautifully with classic sides like buttery mashed potatoes, a robust cranberry sauce, or a savory stuffing. For a refreshing contrast, consider a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this brine on other meats?
Absolutely! This brine works well with chicken or even pork.
Do I need to cover the turkey while it’s in the fridge?
No, keeping it uncovered helps the skin dry out, which is key for crispiness.

Herbed Citrus Dry Brine for Turkey Recipe Walkthrough

Start by ensuring your turkey is completely thawed, which is crucial for even brining. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is essential as it allows the brine to adhere better to the skin.

In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, brown sugar, lemon zest, orange zest, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper. Mix them until well combined. This is your magic dust that will transform your turkey.

Now, for the fun part: rubbing the brine. Spread the mixture evenly over the turkey, making sure to cover every nook and cranny. If you're feeling adventurous, gently loosen the skin and rub some of the mixture underneath. This ensures the flavors penetrate deep into the meat.

Place the seasoned turkey on a rack set over a baking sheet. This setup allows air to circulate around the bird, helping the skin dry out and crisp up later. Refrigerate it uncovered for 24-48 hours. The longer, the better for maximum flavor infusion.

Before cooking, rinse the turkey thoroughly under cold water to remove the brine, then pat it dry again. This step is crucial to avoid an overly salty bird. Now, you're ready to roast using your preferred method.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Packs a punch of flavor without being overwhelming.
  • Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients.
  • Makes your turkey incredibly moist and tender.
  • Perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

12 lbs whole turkey
1/4 cup kosher salt
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp finely grated lemon zest
1 tbsp finely grated orange zest
2 tsp dried thyme
2 tsp dried rosemary
1 tsp black pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels and ensure it is completely thawed.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, brown sugar, lemon zest, orange zest, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper.
3. Rub the dry brine mixture evenly over the turkey, making sure to cover all parts, including under the skin where possible.
4. Place the turkey on a rack over a baking sheet and refrigerate uncovered for 24-48 hours.
5. Before cooking, rinse the turkey thoroughly under cold water to remove the brine and pat dry with paper towels.
6. Proceed with your preferred roasting method.

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