Brined Turkey with Garlic Herb Butter

Directions

1. 1
   In a large stock pot combine 1 qt water, salt, lemons, oranges, rosemary, bay, sage, thyme, peppercorns, and syrup
2. 2
   Bring to a boil.
3. 3
   Remove from heat and add apple juice.
4. 4
   Let cool completely.
5. 5
   Place cleaned turkey in a large container (stock pot, brining bag, 10 gallon bucket, or unscented garbage bag)
6. 6
   Pour brine over the bird. If bird is not submerged add water until it is. If bird floats, weigh it down with a bowl or plate.Keep bird in brine at 40 degrees F for 8-24 hours, turning the bird once.Once brining time is complete rinse and dry turkey and prep for cooking.Garlic Herb Compound Butter
7. 7
   In a medium bowl combine all ingredients. Stir until well combined.Bird Prep
8. 8
   Preheat over to 450 degrees.Once brining is complete, rinse and dry bird.
9. 9
   Place bird in a roasting pan.
10. 10
    Place compound butter under the skin of the bird and rub the entire outside of the bird.Stuff cavity of bird with herbs, lemon, and onion.Reduce oven heat to 325 degrees.
11. 11
    Place bird inside oven and bake until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. About 15 minutes per pound.
12. 12
    Let bird rest 15 minutes before carving.