====== Turkey Pastrami ====== ===== Ingredients ===== * 2 1/2 pounds turkey breast * 1 quart water * 1/2 cup brown sugar * 1/2 cup salt (kosher) * 1 tablespoon black peppercorns (whole) * 6 cloves garlic (crushed) * 2 teaspoons thyme * 1 teaspoon whole cloves * 3 bay leaves * 1 tablespoon dry juniper berries * 1/4 cup black pepper (coarsely ground) ==== Steps ==== In a saucepan combine the water, brown sugar and salt \\ Bring to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar are dissolved. \\ Remove from heat and stir in the 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of whole black peppercorns, thyme, bay leaves, whole cloves and garlic. \\ Allow to cool. \\ Place turkey breast in a nonreactive container and pour cooled mixture over it. Make sure that the turkey breast is completely covered. \\ Cover and refrigerate for 48 hours. Prepare smoker for a smoke at about 220 degrees for 2 1/2 hours.\\ Combine juniper berries and coarsely ground black pepper.\\ Remove turkey breast from brine mixture and rinse under cold water.\\ Pat dry with paper towels and cover with juniper berry-black pepper rub.\\ Make sure you press the rub into the surface of the turkey.\\ Place turkey breast in smoker, skin-side down and smoke for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.\\ Remove from smoker and allow to cool.\\ The turkey pastrami will continue to gain flavor the longer you let it rest.