Are you tired of bland, uninspired dishes? Look no further! Renowned chef and TV personality Alton Brown has shared his secret to unlocking a world of flavors in his brine recipes. From classic turkey to succulent shrimp, these mouthwatering marinades will elevate your cooking game and leave your guests begging for more.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just want to add some excitement to your weeknight meals, Alton Brown’s brines are the perfect solution. With over 18 flavorful options to choose from, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore some of Alton Brown’s most popular and mouthwatering brine recipes, guaranteed to impress even the pickiest eaters.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive in and discover the secret to making your meals truly unforgettable!
Alton Brown’s Classic Turkey Brine
This brine recipe, adapted from Alton Brown’s “I’m Just Here for the Food”, is a tried-and-true method for achieving a moist and flavorful turkey. With its balance of salt, sugar, and spices, this brine will elevate your Thanksgiving dinner to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp black peppercorns
– 2 tsp coriander seeds
– 2 tsp mustard seeds
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the water, kosher salt, brown sugar, black peppercorns, coriander seeds, and mustard seeds. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve.
2. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
3. Once cooled, add the chopped thyme.
4. Place the turkey in a large container or brining bag and pour the cooled brine over it. Make sure the turkey is completely submerged.
5. Refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
Cooking Time:
– Allow the turkey to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before roasting.
– Roast the turkey according to your preferred method (e.g., oven-roasted, deep-fried, etc.).
Alton Brown’s Apple Cider Pork Brine
Elevate your pork chops with this autumnal brine, featuring the warm spices and sweet flavors of apple cider.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons kosher salt
– 2 tablespoons black peppercorns
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the water, apple cider, brown sugar, and kosher salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the black peppercorns, garlic, and thyme. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Use this brine to soak pork chops (1-2 pounds) for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
5. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the brine, pat dry with paper towels, and cook as desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Alton Brown’s Spicy Chicken Brine
Transform your chicken into a flavor bomb with this spicy brine recipe from Alton Brown. This bold and aromatic liquid will add depth and excitement to any dish, from grilled chicken breasts to roasted legs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 gallon water
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons black peppercorns
– 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine salt, brown sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and add apple cider vinegar, black peppercorns, coriander seeds, mustard seeds, red pepper flakes, and cumin. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain brine into a large bowl or container. Submerge chicken pieces (up to 4 lbs) in the brine for 2-4 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from brine and pat dry with paper towels before cooking.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Alton Brown’s Honey Mustard Salmon Brine
This brine recipe from Alton Brown’s pantry adds a sweet and tangy twist to traditional salmon preparation, resulting in tender and flavorful fish. With a simple combination of honey, mustard, and spices, you’ll be on your way to creating an impressive main course or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons water
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together salt, brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until dissolved.
2. Add the water and stir until combined.
3. Submerge salmon fillets in the brine, making sure they’re fully covered.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (up to 24 hours).
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove salmon from the brine and pat dry with paper towels.
6. Place salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 2 hours + 12-15 minutes
Alton Brown’s Citrus Herb Shrimp Brine
Elevate your shrimp game with this bright and zesty brine recipe, perfect for adding a burst of citrus flavor to your seafood.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine water, kosher salt, brown sugar, orange juice, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, and ginger. Stir until the sugar and salt dissolve.
2. Add the shrimp to the brine, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (up to 12 hours).
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the shrimp from the brine, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (brining) + 4-6 minutes (grilling)
Alton Brown’s Maple Bourbon Ham Brine
Transform your ham into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this maple bourbon brine recipe from Alton Brown. This bold flavor combination is perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, preferably smoked
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1 gallon water
– 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
– 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine kosher salt, brown sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, and water. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and add black peppercorns and coriander seeds. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Submerge the ham in the brine, making sure it’s fully covered. Cover the pot with plastic wrap or a lid.
4. Refrigerate for 7-10 days, turning the ham every day.
5. After the brining process, remove the ham from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 2 hours before cooking.
Cooking Time:
– Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
– Place the ham in a roasting pan and score the fat layer. Bake for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
Alton Brown’s Garlic Rosemary Beef Brine
Elevate your beef’s flavor with this aromatic brine, perfect for grilling or roasting. A blend of garlic, rosemary, and spices will make your beef tender and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon pink peppercorns (optional)
– 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, kosher salt, and brown sugar. Heat until dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and add rosemary, garlic, pink peppercorns (if using), and black peppercorns.
3. Let the brine cool to room temperature.
4. Place beef (up to 5 lbs) in a large container or zip-top bag; cover with the cooled brine.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight, flipping occasionally.
Cooking Time: None! The brine does all the work. Simply remove the beef from the brine and cook using your preferred method (grill, roast, or pan-fry).
Alton Brown’s Smoky BBQ Rib Brine
Transform your ribs into tender, flavorful masterpieces with this simple and effective brine recipe from Alton Brown.
Alton Brown’s Lemon Pepper Chicken Brine
Elevate your chicken game with this zesty and aromatic brine, perfect for grilling or roasting. A combination of citrusy lemon zest, peppery black pepper, and savory garlic will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1/2 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 lemons, zested (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine water, salt, and sugar. Stir until dissolved.
2. Add lemon zest, garlic, and black pepper to the brine mixture. Stir well.
3. Place chicken pieces (up to 4 lbs) in a separate container or zip-top bag. Pour the brine over the chicken, making sure it’s fully submerged.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from brine and cook according to your preference.
Cooking Time:
– Grilled: 20-25 minutes
– Roasted: 40-50 minutes
Alton Brown’s Herb-Infused Turkey Breast Brine
Elevate your turkey game with this flavorful brine that’s perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. This recipe yields a juicy, aromatic turkey breast that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp black peppercorns
– 2 tbsp coriander seeds
– 2 tbsp dried thyme
– 2 tbsp dried rosemary
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, salt, brown sugar, black peppercorns, coriander seeds, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
3. Add sliced lemons and minced garlic to the brine.
4. Place turkey breast in a large container or zip-top bag and pour the cooled brine over it.
5. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight.
6. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove turkey from brine, pat dry with paper towels, and roast for about 2-3 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Alton Brown’s Sweet Tea Brined Fried Chicken
Sweet Tea Brined Fried Chicken Recipe
Get ready to savor the sweet and savory flavors of this mouthwatering fried chicken recipe, infused with the warmth of sweet tea brine.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup sweet tea (chilled)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, sweet tea, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the brine mixture, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or electric fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the brine, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
5. Dredge the chicken pieces in all-purpose flour, shaking off excess.
6. Fry the chicken for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Alton Brown’s Soy Ginger Duck Brine
A flavorful brine that combines the savory taste of soy sauce with the warm, spicy essence of ginger, perfect for marinating duck before roasting.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (240 ml) water
– 1/2 cup (120 g) kosher salt
– 1/4 cup (60 g) brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine water, kosher salt, and brown sugar. Whisk until dissolved.
2. Add soy sauce, grated ginger, garlic, and black peppercorns to the bowl. Whisk until well combined.
3. Place duck in a large container or zip-top plastic bag. Pour brine over duck, making sure it’s fully submerged.
4. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
5. Remove duck from brine, pat dry with paper towels. Roast according to your preferred method.
Cooking Time: At least 24 hours (brining) + roasting time (varies depending on the size of the duck).
Alton Brown’s Spiced Apple Turkey Brine
Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic brine featuring the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, balanced by the sweetness of apple. Perfect for a special occasion or holiday feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tsp ground allspice
– 2 apples, peeled and chopped (Granny Smith or other sweet-tart variety)
– 1 lemon, quartered
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, salt, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Heat until the solids dissolve.
2. Remove from heat and add chopped apples and lemon quarters.
3. Let the brine cool to room temperature.
4. Submerge turkey (thawed) in the cooled brine, making sure it’s fully covered.
5. Refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
6. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove turkey from brine and pat dry with paper towels. Roast according to your preferred method.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Alton Brown’s Buttermilk Brined Cornish Hens
A classic Southern dish gets a clever twist with Alton Brown’s Buttermilk Brined Cornish Hens. Tender and juicy, these hens are perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Cornish game hens (about 1 lb each)
– 2 cups buttermilk
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, kosher salt, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar until dissolved.
2. Add the hens to the brine, making sure they’re fully submerged. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid.
3. Refrigerate for 24-48 hours.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Remove the hens from the brine, pat dry with paper towels.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the hens and sprinkle with thyme leaves.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Alton Brown’s Juniper Berry Venison Brine
This brine brings a savory depth to roasted venison, with the earthy sweetness of juniper berries complementing the rich flavor of the meat. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 gallon water
– 2 cups juniper berry syrup (see note)
– 2 tablespoons black peppercorns
– 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine salt, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the solids dissolve.
2. Remove from heat and add juniper berry syrup, black peppercorns, and coriander seeds. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Place venison in a large zip-top bag or a non-reactive container with lid. Pour brine over the meat, making sure it’s completely covered.
4. Refrigerate for 24 hours or overnight. After soaking, pat dry with paper towels before roasting.
Cooking Time: N/A (brining time only)
Alton Brown’s Brown Sugar Bacon Brine
Transform your bacon game with this sweet and savory brine recipe from Alton Brown!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1 gallon water
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine brown sugar, kosher salt, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt have dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and thyme sprigs.
3. Submerge 4-6 slices of bacon (thicker or thinner as you prefer) in the brine solution.
4. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours for a more intense flavor.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the bacon from the brine, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Bake the bacon for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 24-48 hours (brining) + 20-25 minutes (baking)
Alton Brown’s Cajun Spiced Shrimp Brine
This Cajun-spiced brine is a flavorful treatment for shrimp that’s perfect for grilling, sautéing, or using as an appetizer. The bold combination of spices and aromatics will have your taste buds dancing the two-step.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 2 bay leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Combine water, salt, brown sugar, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper in a large pot.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Submerge shrimp in the brine for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
5. Just before serving, remove the shrimp from the brine, pat dry with paper towels, and squeeze a sliver of lemon juice over them. Garnish with parsley.
Cooking Time: None
Alton Brown’s Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Brine
Elevate your pork dishes with a sweet and savory brine that combines the flavors of pineapple, teriyaki sauce, and aromatic spices. This recipe makes 2 gallons of brine, perfect for marinating a 2-3 pound pork shoulder or butt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine sugar, granulated sugar, water, pineapple juice, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the brine has reduced slightly and thickened.
4. Let the brine cool to room temperature before using.
Cooking Time:
– Marinating time: 2 hours to overnight (8-12 hours)
– Cooking time: varies depending on pork shoulder size and cooking method
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with Alton Brown’s flavorful brine recipes! From classic turkey and pork to spicy chicken and sweet tea-fried chicken, these 18 mouth-watering recipes are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a tangy twist on traditional flavors or something entirely new, Alton Brown’s brines have got you covered. With ingredients like apple cider, maple bourbon, and soy ginger, these recipes will take your dishes from ordinary to extraordinary. Try one today and experience the magic of brining for yourself!