Basic Poultry Brine

Soaking chicken in a seasoned saltwater brine ensures the bird will emerge flavorful and, most importantly, moist. Consequently, the timing is a little less fussy when you’re cooking: it’s no big deal if you leave the chicken on the grill or in the oven a few minutes too long. After placing the poultry in the brine, refrigerate until ready to cook.

Ingredients:

  • 8 cups water 
  • 5 Tbs. kosher salt  
  • 2 Tbs. dried basil 
  • 2 Tbs. coriander seeds 
  • 1 Tbs. peppercorns 
  • 1 Tbs. yellow mustard seeds 
  • 1 tsp. granulated garlic 
  • 2 bay leaves 

Directions:

In a large bowl, combine the water, salt, basil, coriander, peppercorns, mustard seeds, granulated garlic and bay leaves and stir until the salt dissolves. Use immediately. Makes about 8 cups, or enough for 1 chicken.

Adapted from Williams-Sonoma Grill Master, by Fred Thompson (Weldon Owen, 2011).