Best A Simple Brine Recipes

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A SIMPLE BRINE



A Simple Brine image

Provided by Sam Sifton

Categories     Onion     Thanksgiving     Celery     Thyme     Bon Appétit

Yield For a turkey up to 16 pounds

Number Of Ingredients 10

3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons kosher salt
3/4 cup sugar
1 carrot, peeled, diced
1 large onion, peeled, diced
1/4 cup diced celery
2 large sprigs thyme
2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon black peppercorns
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon fennel seeds

Steps:

  • Bring salt, sugar, and 4 cups water to a boil in a very large (16-quart) pot, stirring until salt and sugar are dissolved.
  • Turn off heat. Add remaining ingredients to brine base. Refrigerate, uncovered, until cold.
  • Add 6 quarts cold water to pot. Add turkey. Place a plate on top of turkey to keep submerged. Cover; chill for up to 72 hours. (The turkey will be moister and more flavorful if allowed to brine the full 72 hours.)

SIMPLE CHICKEN BRINE



Simple Chicken Brine image

This simple chicken brine will help make the meat more tender and juicy.

Provided by Jay

Categories     Side Dish     Sauces and Condiments Recipes

Time 1h10m

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 5

1 gallon warm water
¾ cup kosher salt
⅔ cup sugar
¾ cup soy sauce
¼ cup olive oil

Steps:

  • Pour the warm water into a container that is twice the volume of the water. Pour in the salt, sugar, soy sauce, and olive oil. Stir until the sugar and salt have dissolved, then allow the brine to cool to room temperature.
  • To use, place chicken in the brine, cover, and refrigerate two hours for skinless breasts, 4 hours for bone-in pieces, and 4 hours to overnight for whole chickens. Drain and pat the chicken dry before cooking. One gallon of brine is enough for 6 pounds of whole chicken or bone-in chicken pieces, and up to 10 pounds of skinless, boneless chicken breasts.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 182.5 calories, Carbohydrate 24.7 g, Cholesterol 0 mg, Fat 9 g, Fiber 0.3 g, Protein 2 g, SaturatedFat 1.2 g, Sodium 13209.3 mg, Sugar 22.7 g

BASIC QUICK PICKLE BRINE



Basic Quick Pickle Brine image

Provided by Katherine Sacks

Categories     Kid-Friendly     Low Cal     Carrot     Healthy     Low Cholesterol     Vegan     Small Plates

Yield 4 1/2 cups

Number Of Ingredients 6

2 cups apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons kosher salt
1 tablespoon black peppercorns
1 tablespoon mustard seeds
10 medium carrots (about 1 1/2 pounds), peeled, quartered, sliced crosswise into 3-inch segments

Steps:

  • Bring vinegar, sugar, salt, peppercorns, mustard seeds, and 2 cups water to a boil in a medium pot over high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 10 minutes.
  • Place carrots in a heatproof resealable container or jar (divide among several containers if necessary). Pour hot brining liquid over carrots. Let cool to room temperature, then cover and chill at least 2 hours before serving.

ULTIMATE TURKEY BRINE



Ultimate Turkey Brine image

Simple overnight brine that will make any turkey moist and tasty. You can use this recipe for turkeys in the 15 to 20-pound range. Brining works best for fresh turkeys; you should definitely not brine any turkey that is already injected with a 'solution.'

Provided by Eric

Categories     Side Dish     Sauces and Condiments Recipes

Time 2h25m

Yield 30

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 gallon water
2 cups kosher salt
1 ½ cups dark brown sugar
12 whole cloves
3 bay leaves
1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
2 ½ teaspoons dried rosemary
2 ½ teaspoons dried thyme

Steps:

  • Bring water to a boil in a large stockpot. Stir salt and sugar into the water until dissolved; bring water again to a boil. Add cloves, bay leaves, peppercorns, rosemary, and thyme to the water, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook mixture at a simmer for about 20 minutes.
  • Refrigerate brine until completely cooled.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 44.1 calories, Carbohydrate 11.3 g, Fat 0.1 g, Fiber 0.3 g, Protein 0.1 g, Sodium 6080.8 mg, Sugar 10.7 g

TURKEY BRINE



Turkey Brine image

This is a tasty brine for any poultry. It will make your bird very juicy, and gravy to die for!! This is enough brine for a 10 to 18 pound turkey.

Provided by SHERI GAILEY

Categories     Side Dish     Sauces and Condiments Recipes

Time 8h20m

Yield 15

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 gallon vegetable broth
1 cup sea salt
1 tablespoon crushed dried rosemary
1 tablespoon dried sage
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon dried savory
1 gallon ice water

Steps:

  • In a large stock pot, combine the vegetable broth, sea salt, rosemary, sage, thyme, and savory. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently to be sure salt is dissolved. Remove from heat, and let cool to room temperature.
  • When the broth mixture is cool, pour it into a clean 5 gallon bucket. Stir in the ice water.
  • Wash and dry your turkey. Make sure you have removed the innards. Place the turkey, breast down, into the brine. Make sure that the cavity gets filled. Place the bucket in the refrigerator overnight.
  • Remove the turkey carefully draining off the excess brine and pat dry. Discard excess brine.
  • Cook the turkey as desired reserving the drippings for gravy. Keep in mind that brined turkeys cook 20 to 30 minutes faster so watch the temperature gauge.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 2.8 calories, Carbohydrate 0.6 g, Cholesterol 0 mg, Fat 0.1 g, Fiber 0.4 g, Protein 0.1 g, SaturatedFat 0 g, Sodium 5640.3 mg, Sugar 0 g

PERFECT CHICKEN BRINE



Perfect Chicken Brine image

Brining chicken adds tons of flavor and keeps the meat moist. Several years of experimenting with ingredients and method and I finally found the right combination for my perfect chicken brine.

Provided by Kate Leifker

Categories     Side Dish     Sauces and Condiments Recipes

Time 2h30m

Yield 20

Number Of Ingredients 8

16 cups water
¾ cup kosher salt
⅔ cup white sugar
2 heads garlic, crushed and chopped
¼ cup dried sage, or to taste
¼ cup dried basil, or to taste
1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
1 large bay leaf

Steps:

  • Mix water, kosher salt, white sugar, garlic, sage, basil, peppercorns, and bay leaf in a large pot over medium-high heat; bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the salt and sugar are dissolved completely, about 20 minutes.
  • Remove pot from heat and cover with a lid. Cool brine at room temperature for 2 hours before refrigerating to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 37.8 calories, Carbohydrate 9.2 g, Fat 0.1 g, Fiber 0.6 g, Protein 0.6 g, Sodium 3422.9 mg, Sugar 6.7 g

BASIC BRINE FOR SMOKING MEAT



Basic Brine for Smoking Meat image

This is a very basic brine recipe for preparing meats and fish for smoking. Add any personal taste preferences to the brine for additional flavor enhancement. I like to add white wine, soy sauce, and various herbs and spices. Anything that you like will work, so experiment at will.

Provided by Smokin' Ron

Categories     Side Dish     Sauces and Condiments Recipes

Time 10m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 3

¼ cup kosher salt
¼ cup packed brown sugar
4 cups water

Steps:

  • In a medium bowl, combine the salt, sugar and water. Whisk vigorously until all the salt and sugar is dissolved. Then pour this mixture over the meat, poultry, or fish that you are preparing. Soak for several hours, or overnight. (Note: Make certain the meat is fully submerged in the brine, and make more brine as needed to fully cover the meat.)

Nutrition Facts : Calories 26.1 calories, Carbohydrate 6.7 g, Cholesterol 0 mg, Fat 0 g, Fiber 0 g, Protein 0 g, SaturatedFat 0 g, Sodium 2852.1 mg, Sugar 6.7 g

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A brine is a solution of salt and water that is used to enhance the flavor, tenderness, and juiciness of meat, poultry, fish, and vegetables. Brining is a simple and effective way to add flavor to your favorite dishes without adding extra fat or calories. There are many different types of brines, ranging from sweet to spicy, and each one can bring out the best in your ingredients.

Why Use a Brine?

Using a brine can have several benefits when cooking. Firstly, it helps to keep meat, poultry, and fish moist during cooking, preventing them from drying out and becoming tough. This is particularly useful when cooking larger cuts of meat, such as a turkey or a pork roast, which can easily become dry and overcooked. Secondly, brining can enhance the natural flavors of meat and vegetables, making them taste richer and more complex. Lastly, brining can help to tenderize tougher cuts of meat, making them more enjoyable to eat and easier to digest.

How to Make a Simple Brine Recipe

To make a simple brine recipe, you only need a few basic ingredients and a little bit of time. Here is a basic brine recipe that you can use as a starting point:
Ingredients:
  • 4 cups of water
  • 1/4 cup of kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup of sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of whole black peppercorns
  • 2 bay leaves
Instructions:
  1. Combine the water, salt, and sugar in a pot and bring it to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar have dissolved.
  2. Add the peppercorns and bay leaves and remove from heat.
  3. Let the brine cool to room temperature.
  4. Pour the brine into a large bowl or container.
  5. Add your meat or vegetables to the brine, making sure that they are fully submerged.
  6. Cover the container and refrigerate for at least two hours, or overnight for best results.
  7. Remove the meat or vegetables from the brine and rinse them with cold water, patting dry with paper towels before cooking.
  8. Discard the brine, it cannot be reused.

Customizing Your Brine Recipe

One of the great things about brining is that you can customize your recipe to suit your tastes. Here are few tips to help you make the perfect brine for your next meal:
Salt
When making a brine, it’s important to choose the right type of salt. Kosher salt is the preferred salt to use, as it dissolves easily and is free from additives. Table salt can also be used, but be aware that it is more heavily processed and can contain anti-caking agents that may affect the flavor of your brine.
Sugar
Sugar is typically added to a brine to balance out the saltiness and enhance the natural sweetness of the meat or vegetables. You can experiment with different types of sugar to achieve different flavors, such as brown sugar or honey.
Herbs and Spices
Adding herbs and spices to your brine can help to bring out the natural flavors of your ingredients. Some popular options include garlic, thyme, rosemary, and cumin. Be sure to experiment with different combinations and quantities to see what works best for you.
Liquid
Most brine recipes call for water, but you can also use other liquids such as apple cider vinegar, beer, or wine to give your brine a unique flavor.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a simple and effective way to enhance the flavor of your meat, poultry, fish, or vegetables, then consider using a brine. With just a few basic ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a delicious and juicy meal that your family and friends will love. By customizing your brine recipe to suit your tastes, you can easily bring out the best in your ingredients and take your cooking to the next level.
Brining is a technique that involves soaking meat or seafood in a solution of salt and water. The process adds flavor and moisture to the meat while also tenderizing it. Brining is a simple technique that can transform a regular cut of meat into something extraordinary. In this article, we will discuss some valuable tips when making a simple brine recipe.

Tip 1: Use the Right Ratio of Salt to Water

The most crucial part of a brine recipe is the ratio of salt to water. The general rule of thumb is to use one cup of salt per gallon of water. However, this may vary depending on the type of meat and personal preference. To ensure that the meat does not become too salty, it is best to start with a lower ratio and adjust accordingly.

Tip 2: Be Careful with the Salt

Using the right amount of salt is crucial in a brine recipe, but it is also important not to overdo it. Too much salt can result in an unpleasant taste and texture. It is best to use kosher salt or sea salt in a brine recipe as they dissolve easily and do not contain any additives.

Tip 3: Add Sugar to Balance the Flavor

Sugar is an essential ingredient in a brine recipe. It balances the saltiness and brings out the natural flavors of the meat. Brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey are excellent sweeteners that can be added to a brine recipe. The ratio of sugar to salt should be around one tablespoon of sugar per cup of salt.

Tip 4: Experiment with Spices and Flavorings

Adding spices and flavorings can enhance the taste of the meat and add complexity to the brine recipe. Bay leaves, peppercorns, garlic, and herbs are common ingredients that can be added to a brine recipe. It is best to use fresh, whole ingredients rather than dried or ground ones.

Tip 5: Brine for the Right Amount of Time

The length of time the meat is brined depends on the type and size of the meat. As a general rule, poultry and pork should be brined for 4-6 hours, while beef or large cuts of meat can be brined for up to 24 hours. It is essential to follow the recommended times, as over-brining can result in a mushy texture.

Tip 6: Use Cold Water

When making a brine recipe, it is important to use cold water. Warm water can cause bacteria to grow and can lead to food poisoning. The water should be chilled in the refrigerator before use.

Tip 7: Rinse the Meat Before Cooking

After the meat has been brined, it is essential to rinse it thoroughly before cooking. This removes any excess salt and sugar and prevents the meat from becoming too salty.

Tip 8: Don't Overcook the Meat

Brining can make meat more tender and moist, but it also has a downside. The meat can become mushy if overcooked. It is important to monitor the temperature of the meat and remove it from the heat once it has reached the appropriate internal temperature.

Tip 9: Brine in a Non-Reactive Container

When making a brine recipe, it is important to use a non-reactive container such as plastic or glass. Reactive metals such as aluminum or copper can react with the salt and cause a metallic taste.

Tip 10: Don't Skimp on Quality

The quality of the ingredients used in a brine recipe can make a significant difference in the final result. It is important to use high-quality, fresh meat, and ingredients. Bargain store meat may not produce the desired results, even with the most perfected brine recipe.

Conclusion

Brining is a simple but effective technique that can transform a regular cut of meat into a delicious and flavorful dish. By following these valuable tips, you can create a perfectly seasoned brine recipe that will impress family and friends. Remember, keep it simple, use quality ingredients, and experiment with spices and flavorings.

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