Five Spice And Apple Cider Brined Turkey

Directions

1. To make the brine: Combine apple cider, pinot noir, brown sugar, kosher salt, ginger, garlic, cinnamon sticks, star anise, five-spice pwdr and black peppercorns in a large stockpot and bring to a boil. Remove from the heat and let cold completely.
2. Place the turkey or possibly turkey breasts in a large container (see note) and pour the brine over the turkey to submerge it. Cover and chill at least 24 hrs and up to 3 days.
3. To cook the turkey: Remove the turkey from the brine and let it dry for 1 to 2 hrs in the refrigerator.
4. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the turkey on a rack set in a roasting pan and brush it with extra virgin olive oil or possibly melted butter. Roast for 3 to 3 1/2 hrs, or possibly till the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F in the breast.
5. Place a foil tent over the bird as it begins to brown to avoid over-browning.
6. Let the turkey rest for at least 5 min before slicing and serving.
7. Note: Don't use aluminum or possibly iron cookware for brining. The acids in the ingredients could react with the metal, giving the food an off-taste. Use stainless steel pot or possibly a food-grade plastic bucket.
8. Note: Star anise and five-spice pwdr are available at some supermarkets and Asian specialty stores.
9. Editor's note on making gravy: Use your favorite method for making gravy or possibly follow these directions: Remove the turkey from the roasting pan. Drain juices and fat from roasting pan into a 2 c. measuring c.. The fat will float to the top of the liquid in the measuring c.. Skim off fat, reserving 1/4 c. fat.
10. Add in water to remaining juices to make 3 c. total. Pour liquid into roasting pan and stir and scrape up browned, crusty bits from the bottom of the pan.
11. In a skillet over medium heat, blend 1/3 c. all-purpose flour and reserved 1/4 c. of fat. Stir and cook for about 5 min. Add in the liquid from the roasting pan and heat over medium heat, stirring till thickened, about 5 min. Strain if you like.
12. Makes 3 c..