To brine or not to brine that is the question

[Mike Chavez]

What do ya'll think? If all you can find is a self basting turkey is it worth it to brine?

 

[Chris Hart]

I think it is worth it to find a non-self-basting turkey and to brine it with the honey brine listed in the Let's Cook section.

chris

 

[Chris Allingham]

I have brined self-basted turkeys and found that they were OK, but that was before I knew any better. I think you'll be happier if you use a natural turkey, since the flavors of your brine will not be mixed together with the self-basted flavors.

It shouldn't be difficult to find a natural turkey. Big chains like Albertons and Safeway all carry two store brands of turkey, a self-basted and a natural. Read the package label carefully and buy the one that reads "natural" and "minimally processed."

Regards,
Chris

 

[Guest]

Dude,

I did the Honey Brine last weekend, with apple wood. Was VERY tasty, would encourage you to try it...