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Equipment:
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Have ready a heavy roasting pan large enough to hold the turkey.
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Place a plastic oven bag inside a second one to create a double thickness (see Cooks Note); then place these bags, open wide, in the roasting an.
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Remove the turkey from its wrapping.
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Remove the neck and bag of giblets from the main and neck cavities of the bird.
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Store separately in the refrigerator for making gravy.
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If using the Apple Cider Brine, stuff the main cavity of the turkey with the orange quarters at this point.
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Fold back the top third of the bags, making a collar (this helps to keep the top of the bag open).
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Place the turkey inside the double-thick bags, stand it upright, unfold the top of the bag, and pour the Juniper Brne or Apple Cider Brine over the bird.
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Add an additional 2 cups of cold water.
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Draw up the top of the inner bag, squeezing out as much air as possible; then secure it closed with a twist tie.
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Do the same for the outer bag.
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Place the turkey, breast-side down, in the roasting pan and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours.
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Turn the turkey 3 or 4 times while it is brining.
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Just prior to roasting, remove the turkey from the brine.
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Discard the bags, brine, and any cured herbs or spices remainingon the bird Discard the oranges and ginger if using the Apple Cider Brine.
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Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
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The turkey is now ready to be roasted.
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Juniper brine:
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Juniper Brine directions: Put all the ingredients in a 3- to 4-quart saucepan.
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Add 8 cups of water and stir to combine.
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Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the salt and sugar have dissolved.
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Boil for 3 minutes; then remove from the heat.
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Add 4 cups of ice-cold water, stir, and set aside to cool.
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Apple Cider Brine directions: In a 3- to 4-quart saucepan, put the salt, sugar, ginger, bay leaves, cloves, peppercorns, and allspice.
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Add cups of apple cider or juice and stir to combine.
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Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the salt and sugar have dissolved.
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Boil for 3 minutes; then remove from the heat.
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Add 4 cups of ice-cold water, stir, and set aside to cool.
