Buttermilk Brined Southern-Spiced Turkey
Buttermilk Brined Southern-Spiced Turkey is a mouthwatering dish that elevates your holiday gatherings with its tender, juicy meat and vibrant Southern flavors. Soaked in a savory buttermilk brine and seasoned with spices like cayenne and smoked paprika, this turkey is perfect for impressing family and friends. Each slice reveals a golden-brown exterior and succulent meat that practically melts in your mouth, making it an unforgettable centerpiece for any feast.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
- 4 cups buttermilk
- 1 cup kosher salt
- 2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Brine: In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and onion powder until well combined.
- Brine the Turkey: Submerge the turkey in the brine. If necessary, weigh it down with a plate. Cover and refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a roasting pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare for Roasting: Remove the turkey from brine and pat dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil over its skin and season with additional salt and spices as desired.
- Roast: Place the turkey breast-side up in the roasting pan and roast for approximately 3-4 hours or until internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C). Baste occasionally to keep moist.
- Let It Rest: After removing from oven, let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving to allow juices to redistribute.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz (113g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: For added flavor variations, consider incorporating fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into your brine. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.