I’ve never made a turkey before (my Mom has always cooked it on Thanksgiving), and I don’t think I’ve ever eaten a brined turkey.  I’ve talked to several people about how they cook their turkeys and many of them swear by brining, so now my interest has been peaked… what’s this brining business all about?  After watching this clip of Emeril’s Cider-Brined Turkey on Martha, I think this Christmas Eve will be my first attempt brining and baking the large bird.  After successfully making a roast for the first time this past weekend, I think I’m up for the challenge.  I have the entire day off so I’d rather make something special and use a recipe I haven’t made before since it is Christmas Eve.  We’ll see how it goes… I hope I’m not cringing at these words on Thursday, stressing out and wishing I had just made a lasagna instead!

{image shown is not the Emeril recipe, but is another cider brined turkey that looks very successful. the image belongs to mintyfreshflavor}