Turkey smoke or brine first

[ravenphoto]

Well it is thanksgiving weekend here in Canada this weekend, work is delaying my turkey day plans but Tuesday will be the day. I am going to be brining as well as cold smoking the bird and then I will be cooking indirect inside BBQ using large tray of coals.
What I am wondering is, should I do the brine first? Or should I cold smoke first? Does it really make a difference? My gut tells me brine 1st. Kind of doing it over 3 days so trying to make it flow smoothly. Thanks

 

[dirtsailor2003]

You need to brine first. For the cold smoking process keep in mind the 40-140 rule. What that means is you need to get your bird from 40f-140f in 4 hours or less. If plan on cold smoking at a temp of 40f or less then all is well. If not you will need to really watch your cook times and temps.

Good luck and post some pics of your smoke.

 

[venture]

I would also add?  If you are going to cold smoke a turkey, be sure you are using a curing solution and not a simple brine.  I don't know what your ambient temps are up there?

As Case said, unless the bird is actually cured, keep the 40 to 140 in 4 hour rule in mind.

Good luck and good smoking.

 

[ravenphoto]

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• ravenphoto
• Oct 13, 2015

Well George is now up to 160f and ready to come off the grill. Cover and have a nap for an hr now.