Chef Justin's Signature Stuffed Turkey Recipe
Turkey Brine Recipe
1 cup kosher salt
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons garlic powder
2 tablespoons onion powder
1 tablespoon black peppercorns
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
1 tablespoon dried sage
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
1 tablespoon lemon zest (dried)
1 tablespoon orange zest (dried)
NOTE: All the ingredients mentioned above are conveniently included in the Lighthouse Pre-Mix Brine jar.
Home instructions
1. **Prepare the Brine:**
In a large pot, combine the entire contents of the package with **1 gallon (4 liters) of water**.
2. **Dissolve:**
Heat over medium heat until the salt and sugars have dissolved completely. Stir occasionally. Once dissolved, remove from heat and allow to cool.
3. **Brine the Turkey:**
Place the turkey in a large brining bag or container. Pour the cooled brine over the turkey, ensuring it’s fully submerged. Seal the bag or cover the container.
4. **Refrigerate:**
Brine in the refrigerator for **12 to 24 hours** (depending on the size of the turkey).
5. **Rinse and Roast:**
After brining, remove the turkey and rinse it under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat dry with paper towels before roasting.
### Notes:
- For added flavor, consider suggesting optional ingredients like apple cider, bay leaves, or peppercorns that can be added to the brine water.
- Ensure customers know to keep the turkey refrigerated during the brining process.
This recipe is simple, easy to follow, and perfect for anyone looking to enhance their holiday turkey without the hassle!
Stuffing Recipe
1 ea Lighthouse Stuffing Kit
2 Tbsp melted butter
2 stalks celery, finely chopped
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cup chicken broth
2 large eggs
**Prepare the stuffing**
In a large mixing bowl, add 2 eggs and lightly beat. Mix in the remaining ingredients and mix well.
Set aside until ready to stuff turkey.
Roasting a Brined Turkey
#### Ingredients:
- 1 brined turkey (12-14 pounds)
-2 cup melted butter
- 0.5 cup white wine
- 1 bag Lighthouse Stuffing Mix- Prepared
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
#### Equipment:
- Roasting pan
- Rack (optional)
- Meat thermometer
- Aluminum foil
- Cheesecloth
Steps:
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
Preheat your oven to **325°F (165°C)**.
2. **Prepare the Turkey:**
- Remove the turkey from the brine and rinse it thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat it dry with paper towels, both inside and out.
- Using the prepared Lighthouse Stuffing Mix. Stuff turkey.
- Mix melted butter and wine together in sauce pan and soak cheesecloth for 5-10 min .
4. **Place in Roasting Pan:**
- Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a roasting pan. If you don’t have a rack, you can place it directly in the pan.
-Place the butter and wine soaked cheese cloth over turkey ensuring to cover any exposed skin
5. **Roasting:**
- Roast the turkey in the preheated oven. General roasting time is about **13-15 minutes per pound**. For a 12-14 pound turkey, this will take approximately **2.5 to 3.5 hours**.
- Baste the turkey with its juices every 30-45 minutes to keep it moist.
6. **Check the Temperature:**
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The thickest part of the breast should reach **165°F (74°C)**, and the thighs should be at least **175°F (80°C)**.
7. **Tent with Foil (if needed):**
- If the turkey skin is browning too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil after the first hour of roasting.
8. **Rest the Turkey:**
- Once the turkey is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for **20-30 minutes**. Remove cheese cloth.
9. **Carve and Serve:**
- After resting, carve the turkey and serve it with your favorite sides.
### Tips:
- Consider using a roasting pan with a lid or covering with foil during the initial roasting time to help keep moisture in.
- For added flavor, you can pour some broth or wine into the bottom of the roasting pan, which will help create a delicious gravy.
Enjoy your perfectly roasted brined turkey!