do you have to brine a fresh bird?

jd
  • Posted by: jd
  • November 23, 2022
  • 252 views
  • 3 Comments
Roast Spatchcocked Turkey
Recipe question for: Roast Spatchcocked Turkey

3 Comments

AntoniaJames November 23, 2022
The dry brine method I use here is easier, I've found, than basting during the roasting, especially at very high heat. I have not ever tried this method (spatchcocking, then roasting quickly at high heat) without doing the salt brine, so I cannot say for sure whether you will be happy with the results, not brining. I've read that 24 hours of dry brining is the absolute minimum. ;o)
 
Emily Z. November 23, 2022
You absolutely don't. A brine provides an extra layer of moisture, which can help the turkey stay juicy when cooking, but this can be addressed with basting and a covering of foil. Just make sure you're seasoning the bird well before roasting!
 
jd November 23, 2022
thanks very much - I've never brined, I'vealways basted and my 'whole' roast turkeys are always moist... as mentioned above, two guests are low sodium folk and I want to be careful for them - and yes I always use herbs and aromatics:)
 
Recommended by Food52