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Smoked Orange & Bourbon Brined Turkey

Smoked Orange & Bourbon Brined Turkey

By Traeger Kitchen

Take your turkey hunt by the tail feathers and turn that gobbler into a warm citrus and bourbon-infused feast. This smoked bourbon brined turkey with the Trager orange brine and turkey rub kit is great for holidays or any freshly-fetched trophy.

Prep Time

20 Min

Cook Time

4 Hr

Pellets

Apple
Yields: 8 Servings

Ingredients

main
1
4 Quartcold water, divided, plus more as needed
1 Cupbourbon
1 (12-14 lb) turkey, thawed if frozen
1 Tablespoonunsalted butter, melted
1 Tablespoonorange-flavored liquor, such as Grand Marnier
Units of Measurement:

Steps

  • Step 1

    In a large pot, combine the Orange Brine Seasoning (from the Traeger Orange Brine & Turkey Rub Kit) with 1 quart of water. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook for 5 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat and add the remaining 3 quarts of water and the bourbon. Refrigerate until completely chilled.

    Ingredients
  • Step 2

    Place the turkey, breast-side down, in a large container. Pour the cooled brine over the bird, adding more cold water if needed to fully cover. Place a few plates on top to weigh the turkey down and completely submerge in the brine. Refrigerate for 24 hours.

    Ingredients
    • 1  (12-14 lb) turkey, thawed if frozen

  • Step 3

    Remove the bourbon brined turkey from the brine and pat dry with paper towels. Discard the brine.

  • Step 4

    In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter and orange-flavored liqueur, then evenly rub all over the outside of the turkey. Season the outside of the turkey with the Traeger Turkey Rub (from the Orange Brine & Turkey Rub Kit).

    Ingredients
    • 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

    • 1 Tablespoon orange-flavored liquor, such as Grand Marnier

  • Step 5

    When ready to cook, set the Traeger temperature to 225˚F and preheat with the lid closed for 15 minutes. For optimal flavor, use Super Smoke, if available.

    225 ˚F / 107 ˚C

    Super Smoke

  • Step 6

    Insert the probe into the thickest part of a turkey thigh. Place the turkey directly on the grill grates, breast-side up. Close the lid and smoke for 2 hours.

    02:00

    225 ˚F / 107 ˚C

    Super Smoke

  • Step 7

    Increase the Traeger temperature to 350˚F and roast the turkey until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, 2-3 hours more, depending on the size of the turkey.

    02:00

    350 ˚F / 177 ˚C

    165 ˚F / 74 ˚C

  • Step 8

    Remove the turkey from the grill and let rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. Enjoy!

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