TURKEY BRINE

[mymoxiedoxie]

Hi. I am new to BYC. I was reading about brine for the chickens and I just learned you need to brine your turkey too. Question is; what is the brine mix? I have a 28lb turkey ("turkey boy") and I would like to have a general idea of how much salt to how much water. Someone suggested 12 hours for less salty taste. I just don't have any idea what is right. Any suggestions? Thanks!

 

[mullers3acers]

We just brined and smoked a turkey and two hens. One cup Morton Tender Quick, 1/2 brown sugar to one gallon water. Let sit in brine for 5 days then smoke. For a bird that size I would do about 6 gallons worth.

 

[andehens]

I haven't had a home grown turkey in years so don't know the length of time required for brining, but for my store turkeys I use about 3/4 cup salt, a frozen can of apple juice and about 3 gal water, and brine in fridge for 24 hours, ummmmmm, juicy and tender!

eta: of course double for the 6 gal or so!

 

[mullers3acers]

We did this brine and smoked with apple wood and it was out of this world.