My Favorite Turkey Brine

I adapted this recipe from Alton Browns Good Eats Roast Turkey episode based on what I had on hand many years ago. Original recipe at http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/good-eats-roast-turkey-recipe.html

• Ready In: 24 hrs 15 mins
• Serves: 30
• Yields: 3-4 gallons

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 cups kosher salt
• 3⁄4 cup sugar
• 1 -2  gallon water
• 1  tablespoon black peppercorns
• 4 -5  sprigs thyme
• 3  sprigs rosemary
• 10  sage leaves
• 1  bay leaf
• 1  gallon  ice water

Directions

1. Combine 1-2 gallons water, salt, sugar, peppercorns, thyme, rosemary, sage and bay leaves in large pot over medium heat.
2. Stir to dissolve salt and sugar and bring to a boil. Take the brine off the stove and cool down to room temperature.
3. Mix brine and ice water in a large stockpot or brining bag.
4. Place rinsed and thawed turkey breast side down in brine and cover or tie up brining bag.
5. Place inside of cooler and fill cooler with ice (can also be refrigerated) for 8-24 hours, turning the turkey once half way through.
6. Be sure to drain and rinse well once removed from the brining liquid.
7. Roast or smoke as you normally would.