How to Make Orange Turkey Brine - A Step-by-Step Guide

Brining is a fantastic way to infuse flavor and moisture into your turkey and keep it juicy and tender throughout the cooking process. By immersing the bird in a salt and spice solution, you're able to elevate the flavors and ensure a succulent, delicious end result. And when you add in the bright, citrusy notes of orange, you take your turkey to a whole new level of deliciousness.

This orange turkey brine recipe is the perfect solution for anyone looking to take their Thanksgiving or...

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Ingredients

  • 1 (12 fluid ounce) can frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • 1 lime, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 cup kosher salt
  • 1 ½ gallons water

Information

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 15 mins
  • Additional Time: 2 hrs
  • Total Time: 2 hrs 25 mins
  • Servings: 1
  • Yield: 1 1/2 gallon

  • Combine the orange juice concentrate, orange slices, lemon slices, lime slices, thyme, pepper, garlic, bay leaves, salt, and water in a large stockpot; bring to a boil. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature.
  • Wash and dry your turkey. Make sure you have removed the innards. Place the turkey, breast down, into the brine. Make sure that the cavity gets filled. Place the bucket in the refrigerator. Allow turkey to marinate 1 to 2 days before cooking. Remove the turkey carefully. Drain and discard the excess brine and pat dry.
  • Cook the turkey as desired reserving the drippings for gravy. Keep in mind that brined turkeys cook 20 to 30 minutes faster.
  • Nutrition

    697 cal.

    • Total Fat: 2g
    • Saturated Fat: 0g
    • Sodium: 91282mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 177g
    • Dietary Fiber: 17g
    • Total Sugars: 143g
    • Protein: 13g
    • Vitamin C: 662mg
    • Calcium: 561mg
    • Iron: 10mg
    • Potassium: 3004mg