Brining a Turkey in a Garbage Bag: A Deep Dive into the “Mississippi Trash Bag Method”

Hey there, fellow turkey enthusiasts! Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and you know what that means: it’s time to get your brine on! But before you go diving headfirst into the world of brining, let’s talk about a method that’s been making waves (or should we say, bags?) in the culinary world: brining a turkey in a garbage bag

This technique, affectionately known as the “Mississippi Trash Bag Method,” has sparked both curiosity and controversy. So, let’s delve into the depths of this method, exploring its pros, cons, and everything in between.

What is the Mississippi Trash Bag Method?

In essence, the Mississippi Trash Bag Method involves placing a whole turkey in a large garbage bag and marinating it in a salt brine herbs and spices for several hours at room temperature. The idea is that the bag creates a sealed environment, allowing the brine to penetrate the turkey evenly, resulting in a juicy and flavorful bird.

The Appeal of the Trash Bag Technique

There are several reasons why this method has gained popularity:

  • Convenience: Using a garbage bag eliminates the need for a large container, making it ideal for those with limited kitchen space.
  • Cost-effectiveness: Garbage bags are readily available and inexpensive, making this a budget-friendly option.
  • Ease of Use: The process is straightforward, requiring minimal effort and time.

Safety Concerns and the Controversy

However, the use of a garbage bag in food preparation has raised concerns about potential safety risks. Some experts warn against using regular garbage bags, citing the possibility of harmful chemicals leaching into the food.

To address these concerns, it’s crucial to use food-grade trash bags specifically designed for cooking. These bags are free from harmful chemicals and safe for food contact.

The Verdict: Is the Mississippi Trash Bag Method Safe?

When using food-grade trash bags, the Mississippi Trash Bag Method can be a safe and effective way to brine a turkey. However, it’s essential to follow proper food safety guidelines:

  • Use food-grade trash bags only.
  • Discard the bag after use.
  • Thoroughly wash and sanitize all surfaces that come into contact with the raw turkey.
  • Refrigerate the turkey during the brining process.

Additional Considerations for the Mississippi Trash Bag Method

  • Brining time: The recommended brining time for a turkey in a garbage bag is 12-24 hours.
  • Brine recipe: There are numerous brine recipes available online, each with its unique blend of flavors. Experiment and find one that suits your taste.
  • Thawing the turkey: Ensure the turkey is completely thawed before brining.
  • Cooking the turkey: After brining, rinse the turkey thoroughly and pat it dry before roasting or smoking.

Beyond the Trash Bag: Alternative Brining Methods

If the idea of using a garbage bag doesn’t appeal to you, there are plenty of other brining methods to explore:

  • Brining in a large pot or container: This is the traditional method, requiring a large container that can accommodate the turkey and brine.
  • Dry brining: This method involves rubbing the turkey with a salt-based rub and letting it rest in the refrigerator for 12-24 hours.
  • Injection brining: This technique involves injecting the brine directly into the turkey’s meat, ensuring even distribution of flavor.

The Bottom Line: To Trash Bag or Not to Trash Bag?

Ultimately, the decision to use the Mississippi Trash Bag Method is up to you. If you’re looking for a convenient and cost-effective way to brine a turkey, and you’re comfortable using food-grade trash bags, then give it a try. Just remember to follow proper food safety guidelines to ensure a delicious and safe Thanksgiving feast.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Downright unsafe ways to cook your turkey – Part 2

Jeannie Nichols, – November 14, 2013

Cooking the holiday bird in a bag is nothing new. It is important to know that there are safe and unsafe bags.

Unique regional methods of preparing holiday birds can be downright unsafe. These unique methods are designed to tantalize the senses and produce the perfect turkey – moist breast meat, tender legs and thighs, golden brown skin and memorable flavor.

Michigan State University Extension food safety wants you to have a safe, nutritious and delicious bird for your holiday meals. Two of these unsafe, non-traditional methods are cooking turkey in a brown paper bag or trash bag. Alternative resources can be used to make them safe.

Brown paper bag method

This method involves placing the turkey in a grocery type brown paper bag and cooking the bird at a very low temperature. Brown paper bags were never intended to be used for cooking. The glue, ink, chemicals and other materials used in recycling grocery bags may give off poisonous fumes. Paper grocery type bags are not sanitary and may cause a fire. Intense heat may cause a bag to ignite, causing a fire in the oven and ruining the turkey.

Make it safe – Replace the brown bag with a turkey-size oven-cooking bag. When a turkey reaches a minimum internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, as determined by a food thermometer, it is considered cooked and safe. Take the temperature inside the thickest area of the breast, the innermost part of the thigh, and the wing.

Trash bag method

A whole turkey is placed in a large trash bag and marinated in salt brine, herbs and spices for several hours at room temperature. It is never recommended to use non-food grade materials as holding containers for food. Chemicals and non-food colors may leach into the food. MSU Extension, along with the United States Department of Agriculture Food Safety Inspection Service recommends marinating meat in the refrigerator, not at room temperature.

Make it safe – Replace the trash bag with a large oven-cooking bag. Refrigerate the turkey during the marinating process and the results will be safe and delicious.

The lesson from this article is to make sure that the bag you use to cook your holiday bird is food grade commercial cooking bag so that you and your family can be safe.

For more information on preparing turkeys read Downright unsafe ways to cook your turkey – Part 1.

Are garbage bags safe for brining?

FAQ

Can you brine in a plastic bag?

When choosing a container for brining, keep in mind that it must be food safe. Bowls (glass, stainless-steel or ceramic), stainless-steel stock pots, brining bags or plastic containers are all suitable. Many restaurant-supply stores sell larger food grade containers, which are often sold to the general public as well.

What can you use if you don’t have a brining bag?

If you want completely foolproof Thanksgiving Turkey, use an Oven Bag, (along with a recyclable Aluminum Roasting Pan, or your own roasting pan), which we also have in the store in a few locations but you can always find them on Aisle 7 with the foil and plastic wrap.

What is the best container to brine a turkey in?

While some people use coolers, plastic bags or pots, we suggest only using a Cambro container. A Cambro container is the best vessel for brining because it is food safe, protects your turkey and you can see through it to watch what’s happening.

Can you brine a turkey without a brine bag?

With a dry brine, you just mix the salt and spices, rub it on the meat, throw it in the fridge, and you’re done! You can basically forget about it until you’re ready to cook the turkey.

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