Smoked Turkey Recipe
Make Smoked Turkey Recipe in just 8h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Main Ingredients
Brine Ingredients
Method
Brining the Turkey
- 1
Prepare the Brine
In a large pot, combine 1 gallon of water, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 1 cup of salt. Stir until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.
- 2
Add Aromatics
Add 4 bay leaves, 1 tablespoon of black peppercorns, 1 tablespoon of thyme, and 4 crushed garlic cloves to the brine mixture.
- 3
Brine the Turkey
Submerge the whole turkey into the brine solution, ensuring it is fully covered. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or overnight for best results.
Preparing the Turkey
- 4
Remove from Brine
After brining, remove the turkey from the solution and rinse it under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat dry with paper towels.
- 5
Season the Turkey
In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of smoked paprika, 2 tablespoons of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of onion powder, 1 tablespoon of black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of salt. Rub this mixture all over the turkey, including under the skin.
Smoking the Turkey
- 6
- 7
Smoke the Turkey
Place the seasoned turkey in the smoker and add the soaked applewood chips. Smoke the turkey for approximately 30 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
- 8
Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the turkey from the smoker and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.