We Found the Ultimate Hack to Avoid ‘Dry Turkey Syndrome’

One of the best times of year in Tyler, Texas is celebrating Thanksgiving.

For the most part, I don't eat a ton of meat. However, on Thanksgiving, I'll partake of the turkey. However, often I end up not finishing the little bits on my plate if the turkey turns out to taste like accidental jerky. Or worse, like dusty feathers. No, thank you. I'll just have extra green bean casserole and dressing, please. (My favorites, anyway.)

Occasionally, I'll have some turkey that tastes like turkey. What I mean is--the way I'd imagine turkey was meant to taste. It's moist, flavorful, and delicious. Rarely is this the case, though.

If, like many others in East Texas, you've struggled with perfecting what has traditionally been considered the main dish at many a Thanksgiving day feast, let's hear from the experts on how to make sure your turkey is worth all of the effort and time you put into preparing it.

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So what's the main thing that is often overlooked that leads to a dry turkey?

Forgetting to brine the turkey. 

Oh yeah. That. I've heard about that. Apparently, it makes a huge difference.

The experts at The Daily Meal say that "whether you choose to oven-roast, air-fry or deep-fry your turkey this year, the one step you should start with is to brine the bird."

"Brine" is just a synonym for "salt water." It's easy to do and can even be done the day before you're ready to prepare your turkey.

I've used this method many, many times when preparing chicken breasts, and it makes all the difference in the world, albeit on a much smaller scale.

Important point: For optimal turkey deliciousness, give yourself at least 12 hours to brine—24 is better.

Not surprisingly, the main ingredients in brine are salt and water. But, there's plenty of room for creating your own special recipe by adding in other ingredients.

Of course, you may consider a holiday poultry favorite like rosemary. Other options include bay leaves, garlic, or even brown sugar. Get ideas for different brine "formulas" from Alton Brown here or Martha Stewart here.

Once you've decided on your brine, get a large stockpot (steel or enamel) that will hold both the brine AND the turkey.

While leaving out the turkey, put your brine ingredients in and heat to high--but just long enough to start it simmering. You DO NOT want to boil it into a frenzy. Too much heat and you'll break down the flavors--not our goal.

Ok, so once the brine is simmering, turn off the heat and let it cool--completely.

Then prepare your turkey for cooking by removing giblets--which you'll want to save for making stock later.

Then add the turkey to the brine, making sure there's enough to cover it. You'll want to add water if there's not enough. (So, be sure and make plenty of brine so you don't have to do this.) 

At this point, it's time to refrigerate.

Give it at least 12 hours, and make sure to turn it twice at reasonable intervals.

OK, now drain the brine, pat the turkey dry, and THEN cook the bird according to your recipe.

I assure you, it's worth the extra time. 

What other holiday meal "hacks" could you share with the class? Let us know in the comments!

And if you don't feel like cooking and want help from professionals, there's help for that, too.