County Fair Turkey Legs
Transport your taste buds straight to the county fair with these smoky, tender, and perfectly seasoned County Fair Turkey Legs. Brined in a flavorful mixture of kosher salt, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of liquid smoke, these turkey legs are infused with bold, savory flavors from the inside out. Grilled or smoked to perfection, they develop a juicy interior and beautifully caramelized exterior, with optional basting in melted butter for a rich buttery finish. Ideal for backyard BBQs, carnivorous cravings, or a fun meal the whole family will love, these turkey legs are reminiscent of classic fairground treats but elevated for the home cook. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or looking for a hearty entrée with a nostalgic twist, this recipe delivers mouthwatering results every time.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pieces turkey legs
- 4 cups water
- 0.5 cups kosher salt
- 0.25 cups brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons liquid smoke
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for basting)
Instructions
In a large pot or mixing bowl, combine water, kosher salt, and brown sugar. Stir until the salt and sugar have completely dissolved to make a brine.
Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and liquid smoke to the brine. Mix well.
Place turkey legs into the brine, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Once brining is complete, remove turkey legs from the brine and pat them dry with paper towels. Discard the brine.
Preheat your grill or smoker to 300°F (150°C). If using a grill, set up for indirect cooking.
Place the turkey legs on the grill grate away from direct heat. Close the lid and cook for 1½ to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
If desired, melt the unsalted butter in a small pan and baste the turkey legs during the last 15 minutes of cooking for added richness and a golden-brown finish.
Remove the turkey legs from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Serve hot with your favorite sides or enjoy them on their own!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1682 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 84.8 g | 109% | |
| Saturated Fat | 42.0 g | 210% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 666 mg | 222% | |
| Sodium | 54316 mg | 2362% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 59.6 g | 22% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.4 g | 30% | |
| Total Sugars | 36.8 g | ||
| Protein | 149.3 g | 299% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.9 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 323 mg | 25% | |
| Iron | 17.8 mg | 99% | |
| Potassium | 2103 mg | 45% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
