Mighty Fine Turkey Brine

Dark brown sugar, whiskey, apple juice, and fresh orange dial up the flavor on this mighty turkey brine that makes for a very juicy bird.

• Preparation Time: 25 mins
• Cooking Time: 16 mins
• Total Time: 41 mins
• Calories: 102 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 cup salt
• 1 gallon water
• 5 cups water, divided
• 2 quarts apple juice (not from concentrate)
• 1 large Gala apple, quartered and chopped
• 1 navel orange, quartered, or more to taste
• 1 pint whiskey (such as Jack Daniel's®)

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Combine 2 1/2 cups water and salt in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, until salt is dissolved, about 3 minutes.

Step 2

Pour water and salt mixture into a 5-gallon bucket. Add 1 gallon of water.

Step 3

Combine 2 1/2 cups water and brown sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, until sugar is dissolved, about 3 minutes. Pour into the bucket.

Step 4

Stir apple juice, whiskey, and lemon juice into the bucket. Add chopped apple. Squeeze in orange juice and add in rinds.