Flavorful Turkey Brine with Fruits

Ingredients 0/19

Step 1

In a large pot, combine the vegetable broth, candied ginger, dried cherries, dried pears, dried apples, brown sugar, kosher salt, black peppercorns, allspice berries, three cinnamon sticks, and five sage leaves. Stir everything together until the sugar and salt have completely dissolved. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about an hour, stirring now and then.

Step 2

Once the brine has cooked, take it off the heat and add the ice water. Stir until the ice melts and the brine is nicely chilled. Pop it into the fridge and let it get cold for at least two hours.

Step 3

Place your frozen turkey into the cold brine, making sure it’s fully submerged, and refrigerate it for three days. On the second day, flip the turkey over so it brines evenly.

Step 4

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the turkey out of the brine and set it in a roasting pan. Discard the brine.

Step 5

Put the onion, red apple, a sprig of rosemary, two cinnamon sticks, and a sage leaf into a microwave-safe measuring cup. Add enough water to cover the ingredients, then microwave on high for about five minutes until it’s hot. Pour this fragrant mixture into the turkey’s cavity. Finally, rub the turkey’s skin with vegetable oil.

Step 6

Roast the turkey in the oven until it turns golden brown and the juices run clear, which should take around 4 to 4 ½ hours. To be sure it’s done, check the thickest part of the thigh with a meat thermometer – it should read 165°F (75°C).