Best Thanksgiving Day Turkey
This recipe is all about achieving the juiciest and most flavorful turkey for Thanksgiving. By breaking down the bird, wet brining, and smoking it to perfection, you’ll have a centerpiece that will leave everyone at the table raving. The herb blend adds a wonderful aroma and taste, making this turkey truly unforgettable.
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Ingredients
Turkey
whole turkey (broken down into breast, wings, thighs, and drums)1
Brine
water1gal
salt1cup
sugar1cup
Seasoning Blend
rosemary2sprigs
sage2sprigs
thyme2sprigs- salt1tbsp
pepper1tbsp
orange zest1tbsp
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
96.8kcal (4.84%)
Protein
0.0g (0.08%)
Carbs
25.0g (9.09%)
Sugars
24.9g (49.76%)
Healthy Fat
0.0g
Unhealthy Fat
0.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Best Thanksgiving Day Turkey
Preparation
- Step 1
Break down the turkey into its parts: breast, wings, thighs, and drums.
- Step 2
Prepare a wet brine by mixing water, salt, and sugar until dissolved.
- Step 3
Submerge the turkey pieces in the brine and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, up to 2 days.
Drying and Seasoning
- Step 1
Remove the turkey from the brine and pat it dry.
- Step 2
Place the turkey pieces on a wire rack and refrigerate uncovered for 12 hours to dry.
- Step 3
Coat the turkey pieces in the seasoning blend, ensuring even coverage.
Smoking
- Step 1
Preheat the smoker to a temperature of 245-260°F.
- Step 2
Place the seasoned turkey pieces in the smoker.
- Step 3
Smoke the turkey until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 155°F.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
96.8kcal (4.84%)
Protein
0.0g (0.08%)
Carbs
25.0g (9.09%)
Sugars
24.9g (49.76%)
Healthy Fat
0.0g
Unhealthy Fat
0.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Breaking down the turkey ensures even cooking and allows for better brine penetration.
Drying the turkey on a wire rack helps achieve a better texture and allows the seasoning to adhere better.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to the perfect temperature.
FAQS
Why should I break down the turkey?
Breaking down the turkey ensures even cooking and allows the brine to penetrate more effectively, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful bird.
How long should I brine the turkey?
You should wet brine the turkey for at least 12 hours and up to 2 days for the best results.
What temperature should I smoke the turkey at?
Smoke the turkey at a temperature of 245-260°F for optimal results.
How do I know when the turkey is done?
The turkey is done when the internal temperature of the meat reaches 155°F. Use a meat thermometer to check.
Can I use a different seasoning blend?
Yes, you can customize the seasoning blend to your taste, but the herb blend with rosemary, sage, thyme, and orange zest adds a wonderful flavor.
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Carson Sweezy
(@carsonsweezy)
Food is our common ancestral language. I'm on a mission to Nourish community through food. Food is our common ancestral language. I'm on a mission to Nourish community through food. ...
Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia