Skip to main content
Epicurious

Citrus and Peppercorn Dry Brine

5.0

(9)

Raw turkey covered in dry brine with spices and orange zest.
Citrus and Peppercorn Dry BrineMarcus Nilsson

Our dry brine is like a concentrated rub; massage citrus zest and peppercorns onto the skin and let it cure for a few hours before the bird hits the oven.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes enough for one 12- to 14-pound turkey

Ingredients

2 tablespoons black peppercorns
1 tablespoon pink peppercorns
2 teaspoons white peppercorns
2 teaspoons coriander seeds
6 bay leaves
1/2 cup kosher salt
2 tablespoons light brown sugar
1/4 cup lemon zest
2 tablespoons orange zest

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Toast black, pink, and white peppercorns and bay leaves in a skillet until fragrant. Let cool, then crush in a bag using a rolling pin or heavy skillet. Mix with salt, sugar, lemon zest, and orange zest. Apply to turkey and after curing, rinse off and pat dry before roasting.

    Step 2

    DO AHEAD: Dry brine can be made 3 days ahead. Cover and chill.

TagsOrangeCitrusFruitLemonDairy FreeGluten FreeNut FreeVegetarianVeganMeal PrepBon Appétit

See Related Recipes and Cooking Tips

Read More
Mango Sticky Rice
Khao niaow ma muang, or steamed coconut sticky rice with ripe mango, is a classic in Thai cuisine—and you can make it at home.
Easy Egg Custard
With just a handful of ingredients, this old-fashioned egg custard is the little black dress of dinner party desserts—simple and effortlessly chic.
Simple Hot Cocoa for One
With rich chocolate flavor and easy customization, this hot cocoa recipe is just the one you want to get you through winter.
Buttermilk Corn Pasta
This pasta starring summer corn achieves its savory, creamy sauce thanks to one special ingredient: buttermilk powder.
Pad Kra Pao
This fast stir-fry dish pairs minced pork and fragrant basil with hot Thai chiles and a crispy fried egg.
Dulce de Leche
Make this versatile caramel at home with our slow-simmered method using milk and sugar—or take one of two sweetened condensed milk shortcuts.
Steak Salad With Feta Dressing
Juicy steak, crisp lettuce, and a blender dressing come together for a breezy summer dinner.
Frozen Espresso Martini With Spiked Whipped Cream
This frozen cocktail uses instant espresso for a strong flavor and unbeatable convenience.