what to spray on a turkey while smoking

The Secret to Perfectly Moist Smoked Turkey: Magical Misting and Spritzing

As Thanksgiving approaches, pitmasters nationwide are gearing up to wow their families with mouthwatering smoked turkeys. But cooking the big bird on a smoker comes with some major hurdles. With turkey’s delicate white meat and lack of fat, it can easily dry out and turn leathery.

That’s why basting and spritzing the turkey as it smokes is absolutely critical A regular misting with broth, juice, or oil will unlock the juiciest smoked turkey you’ve ever tasted

In this article, I’ll share my top tips on how to keep your holiday bird super moist and delicious using sprays and mists. You’ll learn:

• The best ingredients to use in your spritzes and when to apply them
• Creative recipes to take your turkey to the next level
• Mistakes to avoid so you don’t ruin your beautiful bird

Let’s get started!

Why Your Turkey Needs Moisture While Smoking

There are two enemies of juicy smoked turkey:

• Low fat content – White breast meat has very little fat compared to dark meat. Less natural fat means it dries out faster.

• Long cook time – Smoking a whole turkey can take 8+ hours at low temps. That gives moisture plenty of time to evaporate.

Misting and spritzing adds back moisture lost during the long smoking process. This keeps the meat tender and stops it drying into jerky.

When Should You Spritz Your Turkey?

There’s no set schedule for when you must spritz. But these tips will help:

• Wait at least 1 hour before the first spritz so rub and smoke flavors can set.
• Spritz every 45-60 minutes during the cook.
• Always spritz after adding more fuel or wood chunks to temper temperature spikes.
• Give a final spritz 30 minutes before the turkey is finished.

The Best Turkey Spritzes and How to Use Them

Anything wet can be used to spritz, but some ingredients add extra flavor. Here are my favorites:

• Chicken or turkey broth – Adds moisture and savory flavor.
• Fruit juices – Apple or pineapple are perfect. Tinge the smoke flavor sweet.
• Oil – Creates crispy skin. Spray lightly to avoid greasiness.
• Wine/beer – Choose mild flavors that complement poultry.
• Water – Plain water mists keep turkey hydrated.

Get creative and make your own infused spritzes too. Herbs, citrus, and spices are all fair game!

Use a clean new spray bottle to mist the turkey. Focus on white meat and any visibly dry areas. Take care not to overdo it – you want a light sheen of moisture, not sopping wet meat.

5 Rookie Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to mess up your masterpiece turkey without the right technique:

• Don’t spritz too early – Let rub and smoke flavors develop first.
• Don’t spritz too late – The turkey won’t absorb it if the skin has hardened.
• Don’t soak the turkey – Use a light misting action, not a heavy stream.
• Don’t forget the back – Moisture evaporates here quickest.
• Don’t use sugary spritzes early – This can make the skin rubbery.

By following these turkey spritzing tips and techniques, your holiday bird will turn out perfect every time. Juicy, tender meat with a delicate kiss of smoke flavor is just a spray bottle away.

Now get out there, mist those turkeys, and wow your family with the best smoked Thanksgiving bird they’ve ever tasted! Just be ready for the begging to make this your new holiday tradition.