BEST SMOKED TURKEY

BEST SMOKED TURKEY

Ingredients

• 1 12 lb whole turkey

For the dry brine:

• 2/3 cup coarse kosher salt
• 2 tbsp brown sugar optiona
• 1/2 tsp black pepper optional
• 1 tbsp orange zest optional

For the rub:

• 1/2 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp salt Optional. If you don't brine the turkey the amount of salt should be more.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp fresh rosemary or 1/4 tsp dried, optional
• 1 tsp sage or 1/2 tsp dried, optional
• 1 tsp thyme or 1/2 tsp dried, optional
• 1 tsp parsley fresh or dried

Instructions

1. Rinse and pat dry the thawed turkey. In a bowl mix together the kosher salt, brown sugar, black pepper and orange zest. Rub the turkey on the inside and outside. Place on a tray and refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
2. Rinse the dry rub. Pat dry the turkey.
3. In a small bowl combine the melted butter, lemon juice, salt and herbs. Whisk to combine.
4. Rub the turkey on the outside, inside and under the skin on the breast with the butter and seasoning.
5. Set a pellet grill to a temperature of 250-275 F. Smoke until a thermometer inserted in the breast meat reads 165 F and the thigh meat reads 175 F.
6. Let the turkey cool for at least 20 minutes before carving and serving.