Elizabeth from Pasadena wants to know how how long and what temperature to roast an 8 1/4 pound turkey? She also wants suggestions for brining it.

A bird that size should be cooked at 325 degrees for about 3 hours. As always, the temperature should be verified by inserting an instant read thermometer into the meatiest, inside portion of the thigh (taking care no to touch the bone). When the temp reaches 170 degrees, confirm the temperature by checking the other thigh. Once removed from the oven and allowed to rest, the temperature will rise about another 10 degrees.

As for brining, we have an excellent recipe at our Thanksgiving help site. Another option is follow that brine recipe, but substitute apple cider for the water and eliminate the sugar.