A dry brine turkey is a method of preparing a turkey for roasting by rubbing it with a mixture of salt, herbs, and spices and then refrigerating it uncovered for 12 to 24 hours. This allows the salt to penetrate the turkey and season it evenly throughout, resulting in a juicy, flavorful bird. Dry brining is a preferred method for many chefs and home cooks, as it is relatively simple and produces excellent results.
There are many benefits to dry brining a turkey. First, it helps to evenly distribute the salt throughout the bird, resulting in a more consistent flavor. Second, the salt helps to draw moisture out of the turkey, which results in a crispier skin and juicier meat. Third, the dry brine helps to break down the proteins in the turkey, which makes it more tender. Finally, dry brining can help to prevent the turkey from drying out during roasting.