For an even deeper flavor, consider adding a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or sage to the brine during the simmering process. If you don't have rum on hand, bourbon or apple brandy can be substituted. Ensure your stockpot is large enough to accommodate the turkey and the brine. If needed, divide the brine between two smaller containers. Always thaw your turkey completely before brining.
Easy Citrus Turkey Brine
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PREP TIME10 mins
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COOK TIME20 mins
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TOTAL TIME1 hrs 30 mins
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SERVING18 People
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VIEWS10
Infuse your Thanksgiving centerpiece with vibrant flavors! This quick citrus brine, spiked with rum and aromatic spices, guarantees a juicy, flavorful turkey that will be the star of your holiday feast.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate22 g
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Fiber1 g
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Protein1 g
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Sodium2635 mg
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Sugar19 g
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Fat0 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepIn a large stockpot, combine water, vegetable broth, sliced oranges, chopped onion, limeade concentrate, orange juice concentrate, brown sugar, rum, kosher salt, crushed garlic, ground black pepper, ground thyme, dried parsley, crushed juniper berries, cinnamon sticks, and bay leaves.
02
StepBring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. (Approximately 15 minutes)
03
StepOnce boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
04
StepRemove the pot from the heat and cover tightly. Allow the brine to cool completely to room temperature. (Approximately 1-2 hours)
05
StepOnce cooled, refrigerate the brine until thoroughly chilled. (Minimum 2 hours, ideally overnight)
06
StepSubmerge your turkey completely in the chilled brine. Ensure the entire bird is covered; you may need to weigh it down with a plate or a brine bag filled with ice.
07
StepRefrigerate the turkey in the brine for at least 8 hours, and up to 16 hours, for optimal flavor penetration. Do not brine for longer than 16 hours, as the turkey may become too salty.
08
StepRemove the turkey from the brine, rinse thoroughly with cold water, and pat dry with paper towels. Discard the used brine.
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Please Rate
Magdalen Metz
Jun 30, 2025I added some rosemary and it was fantastic!
Nelson Mosciski
Jun 27, 2025This brine was amazing! My turkey was so moist and flavorful, everyone raved about it.
Constance Kozey
Jun 27, 2025Be careful not to over-brine! 12 hours was perfect for my 14-pound bird.
Giovani Spinka
Jun 22, 2025Easy to follow and made a huge difference in the taste of my turkey. Will definitely use again!