Turkey Soaked in Spicy Brine

Step 1

Combin the chicken stock, salt, brown sugar, onion, red pepper flakes, cinnamon sticks, peppercorns, allspice berries, and candied ginger in a large pot over medium-high heat. Bring it to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar and salt have completely dissolved, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Take the pot off the heat and let the brine cool to room temperature, then pop it in the fridge until it’s completely chilled.

Step 2

Once the brine is cold, mix it with some ice water in a clean, food-safe 5-gallon bucket or a large container. Submerge the turkey breast-side down in the brine, cover it up, and refrigerate or place it somewhere cool like a basement. Let it soak for about 6 hours, flipping the turkey halfway through so it brines evenly.

Step 3

When you’re ready to cook, move your oven rack to the lowest position and preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C). Set a roasting rack inside a wide, shallow pan. Take the turkey out of the brine and give it a good rinse inside and out with cold water, then discard the brine. Pat the bird dry with paper towels, tuck the wings back, and rub butter all over the skin generously.

Step 4

Pop the turkey in the hot oven and roast it for 30 minutes. After that, pull it out, insert a probe thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, and cover the breast loosely with a double layer of foil. Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and return the turkey to the oven. Continue roasting until the meat is no longer pink near the bone and the juices run clear—this usually takes another 3 to 3 ½ hours. The thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh should read 165°F (74°C) when it’s done.

Step 5

Take the turkey out of the oven and keep it loosely covered while it rests for about 15 minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute, making for a juicy and flavorful bird when you slice it up.