– 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
– ½ cup brown sugar
– ½ cup kosher salt
– 8 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons dried rosemary
– 2 tablespoons dried thyme
– 2 teaspoons onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 2 cups cold water
– Fresh herbs (for garnish, optional)
Follow these simple steps to create the flavorful Garlic Brown Sugar Dry Brine Turkey:
1. Prepare the Brine: In a bowl, combine ½ cup brown sugar, ½ cup kosher salt, minced garlic, black pepper, rosemary, thyme, onion powder, and paprika. Mix until well blended.
2. Apply the Brine: Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Rub the brine mixture evenly all over the turkey, including under the skin and inside the cavity.
3. Refrigerate: Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.
4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) about 30 minutes before you’re ready to roast.
5. Rinse and Dry: After the brining period, remove the turkey from the refrigerator. Rinse it under cold water to remove excess salt and brine. Pat dry with paper towels.
6. Prepare for Roasting: Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a clean roasting pan. Optionally, you can tie the legs together with kitchen twine for a more uniform shape while roasting.
7. Seasoning: You can optionally add a bit of olive oil on the skin and sprinkle additional seasoning to taste before roasting.
8. Roast the Turkey: Insert into the preheated oven. Roast for 13-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
9. Baste: Every 30 minutes, baste the turkey with the pan drippings for added moisture and flavor.
10. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to verify the turkey reaches the proper temperature. Ensure you do not touch the bone while checking.
11. Rest the Turkey: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for about 30-60 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
12. Carve and Serve: After resting, carve the turkey and serve with your favorite sides.
By following these steps, you’ll create a Garlic Brown Sugar Dry Brine Turkey that is truly an extraordinary addition to your festive table!