Mimi’s Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe

This Thanksgiving, elevate your turkey with a delicious recipe that celebrates the fresh, vibrant flavors of herbs grown right here in our greenhouse! Mimi’s Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe combines aromatic herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage—picked at their peak of freshness—to create a succulent, flavorful bird that will be the star of your holiday table. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a first-time cook, this recipe is a perfect way to infuse your Thanksgiving feast with the essence of homegrown goodness. Let’s dive into this savory, herb-infused masterpiece!

Ingredients 

  • 4 quarts fresh apple cider
  • 2 cups Morton kosher salt
  • 4 bay leaves
  • 3 tablespoons whole allspice berries
  • 2 tablespoons peppercorns
  • 1/3 cup fresh sage
  • 1/3 cup fresh rosemary
  • 1/3 cup fresh thyme
  • peel of 2 large oranges
  • 4 quarts cold water

Instructions

Prepare the Brine:

  1. In a large stockpot, combine all ingredients except the water.
  2. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Turn heat off and cool to room temperature. Add cold water.

Brine & Cook the Turkey:

  1. Place the turkey in a large zip-top bag. I recommend the Ziploc Big Bags (size large). 
  2. Pour the brine over the turkey, in the bag, making sure the breasts are fully submerged. Zip the bag closed.
  3. Place the bagged turkey in a large foil tray and store it on the fridge shelf. Brine for 24 hours.
  4. Rinse the turkey inside and out and pat dry the turkey with paper towels.
  5. Bring to room temperature for 1-2 hours before roasting. Roast according to your preferred method.