½ bunch fresh thyme (about 10 sprigs) 3 bay leaves 30 black peppercorns 1 cup kosher salt 1 cup sugar 1 18-20 pound natural, unenhanced fresh or frozen turkey, thawed (See note*, below)
Braised Turkey Legs with Pan Gravy - 1 day ahead
½ bunch fresh thyme (about 10 sprigs) Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper 2 teaspoon rice oil or cooking oil 2 large onions, quartered 5 stalks celery, cut in thirds 3 carrots, halved crosswise ½ cup Chardonnay or dry white wine 6 cup turkey or chicken stock or reduced-sodium chicken broth 2 bay leaves 20 black peppercorns 2 cup water
Pan Gravy
¼ cup butter ½ cup all-purpose flour 4 cup reserved braising liquid (from Braised Turkey Legs), turkey stock, or reduced-sodium chicken broth 1 bay leaf Fresh thyme or sage (optional)
