Imagine a turkey so succulent, with skin so crisp and golden, that it becomes the heart of your Thanksgiving celebration. Our Golden Feast Dry-Brined Turkey achieves this culinary dream with a simple yet revolutionary technique: dry brining. This method infuses the turkey with rich flavors and ensures a moist, tender interior beneath a gloriously crisp skin.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 48 hours (includes brining)
- Cooking Time: 3 to 4 hours
- Total Time: About 52 hours
Servings and Size
- Servings: Serves 10-12 people
- Serving Size: 1 generous slice
Ingredients
- Whole turkey (about 12-14 lbs or 5.4-6.4 kg)
- Kosher salt (3/4 cup or 170g)
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup or 100g)
- Dried thyme (2 tablespoons or 5.6g)
- Ground black pepper (1 tablespoon or 7g)
- Paprika (2 tablespoons or 13g)
- Garlic powder (1 tablespoon or 8g)
- Onion powder (1 tablespoon or 7g)
Detailed Method of Preparation
Dry Brining:
- Thoroughly rinse the turkey, inside and out. Pat dry.
- In a bowl, mix together the salt, brown sugar, thyme, pepper, paprika, garlic, and onion powders.
- Generously rub the dry brine all over the turkey, inside the cavity, and under the skin.
- Place the turkey in a large bag and refrigerate for 48 hours, turning it once halfway through.
Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Remove the turkey from the bag and wipe off excess brine with paper towels.
Roasting
- Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack inside a roasting pan.
- Roast for about 3 to 4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Baste occasionally with pan juices to enhance flavor and moisture.
Resting
Once cooked, let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving to allow juices to redistribute.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Room Temperature: Begin with the turkey at room temperature to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Don't overcrowd the roasting pan; a snug fit is ideal.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
- Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting time; it’s crucial for a juicy turkey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I stuff this turkey? Yes, but cook stuffing separately for food safety and better control over cooking times.
- How long can leftovers be stored? Properly stored in the refrigerator, leftovers can last 3-4 days.
- Can I use a larger turkey? Absolutely, just adjust the amount of brine and cooking time accordingly.