Perfect Christmas Turkey

Directions

1. 1
   Bring salt, water, thyme and berries to a simmer in a large pot, then set aside to cool.
2. 2
   Put turkey in a large basin, at least twice as large as the bird.
3. 3
   Pour the brine over the turkey, cover, and rset aside in a cool dark place for 12 hours.
4. 4
   Preheat oven to 150°C Put the turkey in a large baking dish, on a rack, drizzle with oil and bake for 40 minutes.
5. 5
   Bring stock, sage, butter, and peppercorns to the boil and baste the turkey.
6. 6
   Bake for 45 minutes, basting every 20 minutes.
7. 7
   Turn the oven up to 220C and bake for a further 10 minutes.
8. 8
   Remove turkey from oven, cover with foil and a towel, and rest for 15 minutes.