Apple Cider Brine for Turkey February 27, 2008

Ingredients
8 C. Apple Cider
2/3 C. Kosher Salt
2/3 C. Sugar
1 C. Onion (Chopped)
1 C. Carrots (Chopped)
2 Bay Leaves
1 t. Black Peppercorns
4 C. Cold Water

Method
1. Combine the cider, salt, sugar, onion, carrots, bay leaves and peppercorns in a large stockpot. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally (or until sugar and salt dissolve).
2. Remove from the heat, add the cold water and cool to room temperature.
3. Wash the turkey inside and out and remove the giblets and neck.
4. Place the turkey in a very large pot and cover with the brine, making sure the cavities are filled as well. Cover the pot and refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
5. Before roasting, remove turkey from brine and rinse with cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.

Notes: This makes a wonderfully juicy Thanksgiving turkey!

Crock Pot Holiday Turkey December 13, 2006

Ingredients
5-6 lb. Turkey Breast
2 T. Butter
1 T. Soy Sauce
1 T. Parsley
1/4 C. Garden Veggie Whipped Cream Cheese
1/2 t. Basil
1/2 t. Sage
1/4 t. Pepper
1/4 t. Garlic Powder

Method
1. Place turkey in crock pot. Combine remaining ingredients and brush over turkey. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours.

Nothing could be easier than this turkey! The first time I made it was for a weekday dinner. We couldn’t believe how good it was! Bryan asked if I could make it for Thanksgiving next time. The bird stays incredibly juicy and has so much flavor. AND, you don’t need to do anything to it while it cooks. It doesn’t take up any space in your oven either! Great if you have a small kitchen or are making most of the holiday meal and only have one oven. Also, if your family and friends aren’t big fans of dark meat, you save lots of money by just buying the breast. It’s the only way I can justify the uber expensive free range organic turkeys at the holidays!