Brining Your Turkey
Recipe by: Chop Shop Team
Brining is the secret to a turkey that’s juicy, flavorful, and tender in every bite. By soaking your bird in a seasoned saltwater solution, you allow it to absorb moisture and infuse with flavor all the way through. This process helps prevent dryness during cooking and enhances the natural taste of the meat.
With Chop Shop Butchery’s Brine Kit, we’ve made it easy to take your turkey to the next level. Follow the simple steps to achieve a perfectly seasoned centerpiece for your holiday table!
Chop Shop Butchery Turkey Brine Kit Instructions
(2-Gallon Kit)
Step 1: Bring ½ gallon of water to a boil in a large pot. Add the dry brine ingredients to the pot and stir until they are fully dissolved. This creates a concentrated brine base.
Step 2: In a large, clean bucket or container, combine the brine base with 2 gallons of cold water (or enough to fully submerge your turkey). For best results, include ice or very cold water to quickly cool the mixture. Stir to ensure an even distribution of the brine ingredients.
Optional: For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage, or bay leaves, along with sliced citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, or limes to the brine. These additions will enhance the aroma and taste of your turkey.
Step 3: Place your uncooked turkey into the bucket, making sure it is fully submerged. If necessary, weigh the turkey down with a plate or other object to keep it under the surface.
Step 4: Carefully pour the cooled brine mixture (including herbs and citrus, if used) over the turkey, ensuring all parts of the bird are covered.
Step 5: Cover the container and refrigerate or place it in a very cold area (35-40°F) overnight, ideally for 12-24 hours.
Step 6: Remove the turkey from the brine and thoroughly pat it dry with paper towels. Ensure the skin is as dry as possible for optimal cooking results.
Important: DO NOT ADD EXTRA SALT to the turkey before cooking—the brine has already seasoned it!
Your turkey is now ready for the oven, smoker, or fryer! Enjoy a perfectly seasoned, flavorful bird. 🦃