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Master Buttermilk Brine

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Matt Duckor

This recipe makes enough brine for one 3½–4-pound chicken or 4 pounds of chicken pieces.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes 1 quart

Ingredients

1 quart buttermilk
4 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Whole chicken and/or chicken pieces

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Combine buttermilk, salt, and pepper in a large resealable plastic bag. Add chicken and chill at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain before using.

  2. Curry

    Step 2

    Add 4 teaspoons curry powder, 2 teaspoons ground cumin, and 2 teaspoons ground turmeric.

  3. Chipotle

    Step 3

    Add 2 tablespoons adobo sauce from a can of chipotle chiles in adobo.

  4. Louisiana-Style

    Step 4

    Add 2 tablespoons smoked paprika, 2 tablespoons Tabasco, and 2 teaspoons celery seeds.

  5. Lemon-Dill

    Step 5

    Add 2 thinly sliced lemons, 4 finely grated garlic cloves, and 2 cups chopped fresh dill.

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