Eating turkey is becoming increasingly popular in South Africa, and with the festive season right around the corner, everyone is wondering how to prepare the most succulent turkey this year.
No one likes a dry, tasteless turkey. But not many people know the trade secret in how to pack in more flavour and lock in more moisture, while still finishing with a perfectly crisp skin.
The answer? Give it a bath! Yes, a salt brine is the perfect way to prep your turkey, and step one is choosing the right kind of salt. Salt is a natural product, and because of this, we must take care to identify know the origin of what we buy since we use it in ou food every day.
Fortunately, we are blessed with one of the finest sources of nature’s miracle condiment right here in our own country. Straight from the ancient deserts of the Kalahari, with an exquisite flavour to highlight all the delicious notes in your meal, Royal Ancient Desert Kalahari Salt is packed with essential minerals and trace elements. It’s also free from any additives or preservatives.
The company also ensure that their salt is harvested in harmony with nature, and they invest in projects that care for the community, so you know you are helping to support the planet and local communities in need by adding it to your grocery list.
But back to turkey. Simply mix the below ingredients in your cooler box or a large stockpot or plastic container. Submerge your turkey in the mixture and leave it to soak in the fridge (you’ll need to prep and clear some space). For a bird under 8 kg, the ideal bath time is between 24-36 hours and slightly longer for a bigger roast.
For your salt brine
4 L warm water (top up if your turkey is not fully submerged)
2 cups brown sugar
1 cup Royal Ancient Desert Kalahari Coarse Grinder Salt (½ cup or ¾ cup for a smaller turkey)
3 shallots, roughly chopped
6 garlic cloves, crushed
2 tbsp whole black peppercorns
2 tbsp dried juniper berries, optional
2 tbsp chopped parsley
1 tbsp chopped thyme
Before roasting, make sure your turkey is properly dry after its bath. Pat it dry with a paper towel and then allow it to air dry on a cooling rack for a little while. Then you’re pretty much ready to stuff, roast and dig in!
You can find Royal Ancient Desert Kalahari Coarse Grinder Salt online at takealot.com and in leading Checkers stores nationwide.
Photography: Courtesy images
