Best Brined and Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey with Stuffing You’ll Ever Have! – In this video learn how to make a perfectly roasted …
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The Best Brined and Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey with Stuffing You’ll Ever Have!
As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, thoughts of Thanksgiving dinner begin to surface. It’s a time for family, friends, and of course, the centerpiece of the feast: the turkey. If you want to serve a turkey that will have your guests raving for years to come, look no further than this ultimate brined and roasted turkey recipe, complete with a delicious stuffing. Let’s dive into how you can make this Thanksgiving truly memorable!
Why Brine Your Turkey?
Brining is a simple process that involves soaking the turkey in a saltwater solution before cooking. This not only helps to enhance the flavor of the meat but also ensures that it remains juicy and tender throughout the cooking process. The salt in the brine breaks down some of the proteins in the turkey, allowing it to retain moisture. When you roast it, you end up with a moist, flavorful bird – the kind everyone dreams of for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
For the Brine:
- 1 cup kosher salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 gallon water
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed
- 8 sprigs fresh thyme
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
For the Turkey:
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs.)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage) for aromatics
- 1 onion, quartered
- 1 lemon, quartered
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Stuffing:
- 1 loaf of rustic bread, cubed
- 1 stick unsalted butter
- 2 cups onion, diced
- 2 cups celery, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Brine:
In a large pot, combine the kosher salt, brown sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat until the salt and sugar dissolve. Add the black peppercorns, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Let the brine cool completely before using it.
2. Brine the Turkey:
Submerge the turkey in the brine, ensuring it is fully covered. You can use a large container, a cooler, or even a clean bucket. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
3. Make the Stuffing:
While the turkey is brining, prepare the stuffing. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and celery, cooking until softened – about 8 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, sage, and thyme, cooking for an additional minute.
In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables. Gradually add the chicken broth until the bread is just moistened (you may not need all of it). Season with salt and pepper. Allow to cool before using.
4. Roast the Turkey:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the turkey from the brine, rinse it thoroughly under cold water, and pat it dry with paper towels. Rub the softened butter all over the turkey, including under the skin where you can reach. Season generously with salt and pepper, and stuff the cavity with the quartered onion, lemon, and fresh herbs.
Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan, breast side up. Roast for approximately 13-15 minutes per pound, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (73°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
5. Baste and Serve:
For a golden and crisp skin, baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the pan juices. Once the turkey is visually brown and cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is as juicy as possible.
6. Serve with Stuffing:
While the turkey is resting, you can bake the stuffing in a separate dish (if you have leftover stuffing). Pour it into a greased dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-45 minutes, or until heated through and golden on top.
Final Touches
Carve the turkey and serve it alongside the stuffing with your favorite Thanksgiving sides. Don’t forget to pair it all with your family’s favorite gravy and cranberry sauce!
Conclusion
This brined and roasted turkey with stuffing is sure to become the highlight of your Thanksgiving feast. With a balance of flavors and succulent moisture, it embodies the spirit of the season. So gather your loved ones, set your table, and enjoy a truly memorable Thanksgiving. Happy feasting!
