Name: Cider-Brined Turkey with Star Anise and Cinnamon
Yield: Makes 10 to 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 quarts plus 1 cup apple cider; 1 cup kosher salt plus more; 1 cup soy sauce; 1/2 cup (packed) light brown sugar; 16 whole black peppercorns; 8 whole star anise pods plus more for garnish; 6 garlic cloves, smashed; 6 scallions, white parts only, trimmed, split lengthwise; 6 1/4"-thick slices unpeeled ginger; 5 dried shiitake mushrooms; 2 3"-4" cinnamon sticks plus more

Ciderbrined turkey on a serving platter with fresh herbs.

Cider-Brined Turkey with Star Anise and CinnamonPhoto by Marcus Nilsson

"Brining the turkey overnight keeps it moist and seasons the interior of the meat," says Lo. "The ingredients, except the cider, are classic 'red-cooking' flavorings used in Chinese cooking to braise and glaze meats like pork or duck." Tent the turkey—especially the wings—with foil if it darkens too quickly while roasting.

Recipe notes

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