African Food and Art

Thank you to our latest donor, Tony. Thank you, Tony. We were able to purchase three new stainless steel pots to continue our cooking and teaching heritage.

Dry Turkey is Fowl Play

Peri Peri Turkey Brine for a Spicy Turkey Day Feast

Turkey brine

Thanksgiving is a time to gather, celebrate, and share delicious food. This year, why not elevate your Thanksgiving turkey with Peri Peri Turkey Brine.


A well-made brine infuses deep flavors into the meat and keeps it moist, juicy, and full of life. 


Below, I’ll share a simple recipe for Peri Peri Turkey Brine along with a little bit about why brining is essential and how trying new foods will keep your mind young and vibrant.


Why Brine?


Brining is an age-old technique that involves soaking meat in a saltwater solution. This method helps the turkey stay moist and enhances the flavor by allowing the turkey to absorb both moisture and seasonings. 


A brined turkey is far less likely to dry out, and the result is a bird that’s succulent and tender, even after long hours of roasting. A brine not only seasons the meat but also locks in juices, making each bite rich and satisfying.


The Benefits of Exploring New Foods


Trying new foods, like Peri Peri Turkey Brine will be a fun adventure for your taste buds, but it’s more than that, it’s also good for your brain.


Exploring unfamiliar tastes and ingredients stimulates your mind, helping you stay curious and open to new experiences. 


This practice enhances cognitive flexibility, which is key to keeping your brain healthy as you age. New flavors and textures evoke memories and spark creativity, making meal times more meaningful.


Peri Peri Turkey Brine Recipe


Turn Up the Flavor with our Peri Peri Brine Turkey


Peri Peri Turkey Brine Recipe


Ingredients


1 gallon water

1 cup sea salt

1/2 cup brown sugar

2 peri peri hot peppers, diced

1 tablespoon whole allspice berries

1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns

2 cinnamon sticks

4 cloves of garlic, smashed

1 ounce of fresh ginger, sliced

2 oranges, quartered

2 sprigs of fresh thyme

1 bunch of fresh cilantro or parsley

1 tablespoon smoked paprika

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1 tablespoon ground coriander


Directions 


In a large pot, combine water, salt, and brown sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve. Remove from heat.


Add allspice, peppercorns, cinnamon, garlic, ginger, oranges, thyme, peri peri peppers, parsley, smoked paprika, cumin, and coriander to the pot. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until fully chilled.


Place your turkey in a large container or brining bag. Pour the chilled brine over the turkey, ensuring it’s fully submerged. If necessary, weigh down the turkey with a plate.


Cover and refrigerate for 12-24 hours.


When ready to roast, remove the turkey from the brine, pat dry, and proceed with your favorite roasting method. 


Remember not to add extra salt to the turkey, as it’s already seasoned from the brine.

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