Before we discuss how to brine a turkey, let’s talk about what a brine is first. Essentially, a brine is an acidic solution that has several properties that make it ideal for treating poultry. But more than just the acidic nature of it, what really makes a brine so great for poultry is the salt in it. When you soak meat in a brine, you are essentially extracting moisture from the meat through osmosis. You end up with tender and juicy chicken or turkey after this process. So can you brine a turkey in a stainless steel pot? Sure you can! And here’s how…
What is a Brine?
When you brine a turkey, you are soaking it in a saltwater solution. This is done for a few reasons. One is that salt is a preservative: it prevents bacteria from growing in the meat. That is why you salt your veggies when you get home from the grocery store.
Two, salt is an alkaline substance – meaning it is a base. In meats, like pork and some seafood, we naturally produce an enzyme that breaks down proteins in the meat – making it easier for your body to digest. In poultry, that enzyme only breaks down the outer layer of the muscle cell, which is where you get the most flavour from.
Thus, by soaking the meat in a brine, we are extracting the salt from the brine and allowing the enzymes to break down the proteins in the meat, giving it a more flavourful taste.
How to Brine a Turkey in a Stainless Steel Pot?
You can soak a turkey in a brine in a stainless steel pot filled with cold water. Gently place the turkey in the pot, submerging it in water as much as possible. Add your desired amount of salt and stir until the salt has dissolved. Submerge the pot in a cooler filled with ice and water.
Cover the pot and set the turkey on the counter, away from direct sunlight. Allow the turkey to brine in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. After 24 hours, remove the turkey from the brine and allow the turkey to come to room temperature for 30 minutes before roasting. You can also use a brining container for your turkey. You can buy a brining container like these for $10 on Amazon.
Can You Brine a Turkey in an Air Tight Container?
Yes, you can brine a turkey in an air tight container! All you need is an air tight container, such as a plastic jar or a plastic container that can be sealed with a lid. Fill the container with your desired amount of salt, stir it until it is dissolved, and then add the turkey. Seal the container and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the turkey to brine in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
If you are short on time or don’t have access to an air tight container, you can also brine the turkey in a water bottle. Just fill a clean, empty water bottle with your desired amount of salt and tap water, seal the bottle, and set it out in the fridge. The turkey will brine in the water while in the bottle and then you can remove from the water bottle and roast it that same day.
Pros of Brining in a Stainless Steel Pot?
– No mess and easy clean up.
– No need for propane or electricity.
– Brining container or pot can be placed in the fridge for faster brining.
– No need for exact temperatures or timing.
– No need to clean a brining pan.
– No need to take a turkey out of the fridge.
– No need to worry about the turkey getting too cold and spoiling.
– Better flavour due to the salt and the acids in the brine.
– Easier clean up.
Cons of Brining in a Stainless Steel Pot?
– Brining container or pot have to be cleaned properly
– Not for everyone
– Pot may be too large for smaller turkeys
– Pot can be too small for larger turkeys
– Can’t use a turkey that has been frozen
– Can’t use a turkey that has been previously brined
– Pot can’t be used for other dishes
– Pot or container can’t be stored or transferred
Wrapping the Turkey in Paper towels and foil
After removing the turkey from the brine and allowing it to come to room temperature, you need to place a large sheet of paper towels in the bottom of the roasting pan and place the turkey on top of them. You will want to keep the turkey submerged in the brine for the entire roasting process.
The paper towels will absorb any excess juices from the turkey. You can pour the brine from the pot into a saucepan, add some spices and saute the turkey in the pan until the juices have reduced to your desired thickness. Or you can just keep the pot of brine in the roasting pan after you remove the turkey. The turkey will continue to brine in the juices while roasting.
Once the turkey is done, use a clean set of kitchen tongs to remove the turkey from the pan and place it on a clean kitchen towel on the counter. Allow the turkey to cool for 15 minutes and then remove the foil and paper towels.
Wrapping the Turkey in paper towels and foil
After removing the turkey from the brine and allowing it to come to room temperature, you need to place a large sheet of paper towels in the bottom of the roasting pan and place the turkey on top of them. You will want to keep the turkey submerged in the brine for the entire roasting process. The paper towels will absorb any excess juices from the turkey.
You can pour the brine from the pot into a saucepan, add some spices and saute the turkey in the pan until the juices have reduced to your desired thickness. Or you can just keep the pot of brine in the roasting pan after you remove the turkey. The turkey will continue to brine in the juices while roasting.
Once the turkey is done, use a clean set of kitchen tongs to remove the turkey from the pan and place it on a clean kitchen towel on the counter. Allow the turkey to cool for 15 minutes and then remove the paper towels.
Conclusion
There are many reasons why you should brine your turkey. Brining is an easy and effective way to add flavour to your turkey, and it also helps to keep it juicy and fresh. With a little bit of prep work, you can make a delicious turkey dinner any day of the year.
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