Bird Brine

Original recipe from Alton Brown.

Brine a chicken or turkey by soaking it in these seasonings before cooking to enhance flavor and soften texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 c salt
• 1/2 c light brown sugar
• 1 gallon water
• 1 T peppercorns
• 1 t allspice berries
• 1 t ginger 

Directions:

1. In a large 12-quart pan or canning pot, combine all ingredients. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally until well dissolved. Remove from heat and refrigerate.
2. Early in the day or the night before cooking, place thawed bird into brine and add water until covered (may need to weigh down bird). Refrigerate 8-16 hours. 
3. Proceed to cook bird according to desires. We prefer roasting or slow cooker.