Holiday Turkey Brine

• In a large pot bring 2 L of water to a boil, dissolve sugar and salt, then add all remaining ingredients.
• Allow brine to cool. Place turkey in a cooler, then add brine and water to cover turkey, and ice cubes and let sit for about 12 hours. Then rinse, Pat dry inside and out.

To cook the turkey:

• Preheat oven to 325°F
• Place turkey in roasting pan with wire rack, breast side up, with foil on the wing tips and foil loosely covered on top (remove foil for last hour of cooking and increase heat to 350°F). Brush with melted butter (You can baste with butter every hour) and cook for about 4 to 4.5 hours or until internal temp reaches about 82°C/180°F and the juices run clear.
• Once cooked let rest for about 20 minutes. Then carve and serve.