Brine For Poultry

2 lemon cut in half
4 bay leaves
a few parsley stems
1 sprig thyme
1/2 cup honey
6 garlic cloves
1 tbsp black peppercorns
2 cups coarse sea salt
2 gallons water or 7 1/2 LT cold water


In large stock pot heat salt, water and honey to dissolve then take off of heat and add rest of ingredients then allow to cool completely. Next place bird into a large plastic bag or container that will not leak submerge the bird and allow to brine for 2-5 hours. remove pat dry and bake as usual * note if the bird starts to brown to early cover with a little tin foil