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Smoked Turkey Legs

Smoked Turkey Legs Recipe

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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 610
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 gallon water
  • ¾ cup kosher salt
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons black peppercorns
  • 4 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4 turkey drumsticks
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon coarse black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Method
 

  1. Combine water, salt, brown sugar, peppercorns, garlic, and bay leaves in a pot. Bring to a boil, then cool and refrigerate until cold. Submerge turkey legs and brine for 8 to 12 hours.
  2. Remove legs, pat very dry, and let them air-dry on a rack for 30 minutes.
  3. Mix paprika, brown sugar, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Coat the legs evenly with the rub.
  4. Smoke at 225°F until the thickest part reaches 165°F, about 4 to 5 hours. Continue to 175°F for more tenderness.
  5. Rest the legs for 10 minutes, then slice meat off the bone and serve.

Notes

Brine time is not included in the prep total, so plan on starting the night before. For the firmest bark, let the rubbed legs rest uncovered in the fridge for a few hours before smoking. Use a probe thermometer for doneness; every smoker runs a little differently.