SMOKED TURKEY

Brined, rubbed down with an amazing combination of spices, and smoked to perfection - there's no better way to enjoy your Thanksgiving bird!

INGREDIENTS:

1 turkey, about 12-14 lbs

Brine
2 qts apple juice
1 cup kosher salt
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup molasses
3 qts ice cold water

Rub
1 tbsp paprika
1 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp freshly ground pepper
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp cayenne powder
¼ tsp cumin
1 chunk applewood or other light smoking wood
1 cup melted butter (for basting)

Tools 
Smoker 
Large container for brining 
Small bowl
Roasting pan
Boning Knife 
Instant read thermometer

DIRECTIONS:

1. Whisk together the apple juice, salt, brown sugar, and molasses in a large container (large enough to fit your bird) until the salt and sugar have dissolved.
2. Stir in the ice cold water and submerge the turkey, breast side down, into the brine. Refrigerate for 12 hours.
3. In a small bowl, combine all ingredients for the rub and mix well.
4. Remove the turkey from the brine and pat dry with paper towels.
5. Use your fingers to gently separate the skin from beneath the breasts and around the thighs. Spread about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the rub under the breast and thighs then sprinkle the remaining rub all over the turkey and inside of the cavity.
6. Preheat your grill or smoker to 325°F. Add your wood chunks when at temperature.
7. Place your turkey in a large roasting pan, breast side up.
8. Smoke for 1 hour, then cover with aluminum foil and continue smoking until an internal temperature of 150°F is reached in the thickest part of the breast, around another 1-2 hours. Uncover and baste the bird every 15-20 minutes with the melted butter and continue smoking until the bird hits an internal temp of 160°F.
9. Remove from the smoker and allow to rest, uncovered, for 20-30 minutes.
10. To get the skin extra crispy use a kitchen torch or put in an oven on broil for 3-5 minutes
11. Carve, serve, and enjoy!