Sugar-Free Citrus Turkey Brine

Ingredients

• 2 quarts of water
• 1/2 cup of salt
• 1/2 cup of orange juice
• 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon of black peppercorns
• 1 bay leaf

Directions

1. In a large pot, combine the water, salt, orange juice, lemon juice, thyme, peppercorns and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Remove the pot from the heat and let the brine cool completely.
3. Once cooled, strain the brine and transfer it to a container or bag large enough to hold the turkey.
4. Add the turkey to the brine and make sure it’s completely covered. Refrigerate the turkey in the brine for at least 8 hours or overnight.
5. Remove the turkey from the brine, rinse it with cold water and pat dry before roasting.

Interesting Facts

• Brine is a liquid solution that is used to marinate foods such as turkey, chicken, pork, and seafood.
• Brine helps to tenderize and flavor the meat.
• Sugar is often added to brine to help balance out the saltiness, but it is not necessary.