“You'll want to give thanks for this mouthwatering turkey! Moist, slightly sweet and a hint of spice make this one of our best turkeys ever.”
—Tina M., Johnstown, Pennsylvania

Ingredients

• 2 quarts cold water, divided
• 1/2 cup kosher salt
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon whole peppercorns
• 1 boneless skinless turkey breast half (2 to 3 pounds)

Basting Sauce:

• 1/4 cup canola oil
• 1/4 cup sesame oil
• 1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, combine 1 quart water, salt, brown sugar and peppercorns. Bring to a boil. Cook and stir until salt and sugar are dissolved. Remove from the heat. Add the remaining cold water to cool the brine to room temperature.


2. Place a large resealable plastic bag inside a second plastic bag; add turkey breast. Carefully pour cooled brine into bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible; seal bags and turn to coat. Place in a pan. Refrigerate for 4-6 hours.


3. Prepare grill for indirect heat, using a drip pan. Meanwhile, combine basting sauce ingredients. Place turkey over drip pan and grill, covered, over indirect medium heat for 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 hours or until a thermometer reads 170°, basting occasionally with sauce. Cover and let stand for 10 minutes before slicing. Yield: 6 servings.

Editor’s Note: This recipe was tested with Morton brand kosher salt. It is best not to use a prebasted turkey breast for this recipe.

 

This recipe is featured in: Taste of Home Best Holiday Recipes 2012

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