Sous Vide How to Brine for Sous Vide: Temperature & Time Guide
Brining and sous vide are a perfect pair: the salt penetrates during the bath's long cook, and the sealed bag keeps every drop of juice.
Our top pick
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
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Quick comparison
| Pick | Why we like it | |
|---|---|---|
| Anova Precision Cooker 3.0 | A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking. | View → |
| Instant-read meat thermometer | Use one to verify your water bath and spot-check the finish — a $15 probe removes all guesswork. | View → |
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
Editor’s PickA circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
- + On-device temperature control
- + 1100W heats fast
- + Recipe library for temps
- − Premium price
- − Some app features paywalled
Free shipping on eligible items
Use one to verify your water bath and spot-check the finish — a $15 probe removes all guesswork.
- + Verifies actual temperature
- + Cheap insurance
- − Not needed if your circulator is accurate
Free shipping on eligible items
Buying advice
Dry-brine (best): salt the meat 12-24 hours before, let it sit refrigerated — the salt draws out moisture, then it's reabsorbed seasoned. Wet-brine: 30-60 minutes in salt water for poultry. Don't oversalt — sous vide concentrates seasoning. Rinse only if you went heavy.
FAQ
What's the difference between dry and wet brining?
Dry = salt rubbed on, time to penetrate. Wet = salt-water soak. Dry is cleaner for sous vide.
How much salt do I use?
About 1 tsp of kosher salt per pound of meat — adjust for your salt's saltiness.
Can I brine then sous vide immediately?
A 30-60 minute rest minimum helps; 12-24 hours is ideal for deep seasoning.
Ready to cook perfectly?
Our top pick for this guide — check today’s price and clip any on-page coupon on Amazon:
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Want exact temps and times? Use our free sous vide calculators.