Ingredients

• For Dry-Brining

  • 1 whole fresh or thawed frozen turkey (about 18 pounds), such as Broad Breasted White, neck and giblets reserved
  • Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
  • 2 teaspoons coarsely chopped fresh thyme

• For Roasting

  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh sage, plus 6 sprigs
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh thyme, plus 12 sprigs
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 dried bay leaves
  • 2 tart apples, such as Northern Spy or Granny Smith, sliced 1/2-inch thick (cores reserved)
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced crosswise into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 cups water, plus more if needed