20 lb turkey brine recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best 20 lb turkey brine recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite 20 lb turkey brine recipe. This recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether it’s a holiday dinner or just a Tuesday, this brine will elevate your turkey to new heights. I’ve tried countless recipes over the years, but this one remains my go-to.

The secret lies in the combination of herbs and spices that infuse the turkey with so much flavor. My family loves when I serve this on special occasions, and it’s always a hit.

Not only does it taste amazing, but the health benefits of using a brine are numerous. By soaking the turkey in a saltwater solution, we’re able to retain moisture and prevent drying out.

This means that even after roasting, the turkey stays juicy and tender. I’ve also noticed that my kids are more willing to eat vegetables when they’re served alongside this delicious turkey.

It’s truly a win-win situation.

20 lb Turkey Brine Recipe

4.6 from 1840 votes

This turkey brine recipe is perfect for a 20 lb turkey. It ensures a juicy, flavorful bird for your holiday meal.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time4 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 30 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Brine

2 gallons water
2 cups kosher salt
2 cups brown sugar
1 bunch fresh thyme
1 bunch fresh rosemary
1 bunch fresh sage
1 head garlic, halved
2 large onions, quartered
2 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
2 stalks celery, cut into chunks
1 lemon, halved
1 orange, halved
1 tbsp black peppercorns
1 tbsp coriander seeds
1 tbsp mustard seeds

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large stockpot, bring 1 gallon of water to a boil over high heat.
2Add the salt, brown sugar, thyme, rosemary, sage, garlic, onions, carrots, celery, lemon, orange, peppercorns, coriander seeds, and mustard seeds.
3Stir until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved.
4Remove from heat.
5Add the remaining 1 gallon of cold water to the pot.
6Stir well to combine.
7Allow the brine to cool to room temperature.
8This can take about 1 to 2 hours.
9Once cooled, refrigerate until completely chilled.
10This can take an additional 1 to 2 hours.
11Place the turkey in a large non-reactive container or cooler.
12Pour the chilled brine over the turkey, ensuring it is completely submerged.
13If necessary, place a weight on the turkey to keep it submerged.
14Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or up to 24 hours.
15Preheat the oven to 325°F.
16Remove the turkey from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels.
17Discard the brine.
18Place the turkey breast-side up in a roasting pan.
19Tuck the wing tips under the turkey and tie the legs together with kitchen twine.
20Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh and 170°F in the breast.
21The turkey should be golden brown and the juices should run clear when the thigh is pierced with a knife.
22If the turkey begins to brown too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil.

🔧Equipment

Large stockpot
Large non-reactive container or cooler
Meat thermometer
Tongs
Roasting pan

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 3500mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 12g🥩Protein: 45g

📝Notes

Tips: Ensure the turkey is completely submerged in the brine for even flavor distribution. You can adjust the brine ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

This 20 lb turkey brine recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday dinner or just a regular Tuesday night meal. The key to success lies in allowing enough time for the turkey to soak in the brine before cooking.

Once cooked, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months. Reheat by placing the turkey in a low oven (around 300°F) until warmed through.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About 20 lb Turkey Brine

Q: What is the purpose of a brine for cooking a turkey?

A brine is used to soak the turkey in a saltwater solution before cooking. This helps to retain moisture and prevent drying out of the meat.

Q: Can I use this recipe for smaller turkeys?

This recipe can be scaled down for smaller turkeys, but keep in mind that the cooking time may be shorter.

Q: How do I ensure that my turkey is properly thawed before brining?

Make sure to thaw your turkey completely before brining by leaving it in cold water or letting it sit at room temperature for several hours.

Q: Can I use this recipe for other types of poultry?

This recipe can be adapted for other types of poultry, such as chicken or goose.

Q: How long should I soak the turkey in the brine?

The recommended soaking time is 24 hours, but you can adjust this time frame based on your schedule and preferences.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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