Easy Smoked Turkey

Directions

1. 1
   1st Day: Remove turkey from freezer.
2. 2
   2nd Day: Clean turkey and soak in marinade.
3. 3
   3rd Day: Start baking.
4. 4
   While turkey is thawing out, prepare marinade. Add salt, tender quick and liquid smoke to a large, clean bucket. (A new mop-bucket or Rubbermaid container works well. DO NOT use metal!) Add water to bucket, and whisk well until granules are dissolved. Keep cool until turkey is ready.
5. 5
   The turkey must soak in the brine, completely submerged, for 24-36 hours.
6. 6
   When done marinating, rinse brine completely off under cold water. Dry completely with paper towels.
7. 7
   Spread skin with salad oil, covering all lightly. (Do not use butter!) Place breast side down in large roasting pan; do not cover.
8. 8
   Bake at 350 degrees F for one hour, then at 250 degrees F for 12 hours, or one hour per pound for smaller bird.
9. 9
   When done, cool 3-4 hours before cutting (it will be hard!), to let breast juices rest.