Hickory Smoked Bourbon Turkey

This is a great way to make your holiday turkey this year. it takes a little work, but belive me it's well worth it.

Remove giblets and neck from turkey.

Reserve for other uses , if desired.

Rinse turkey thoroughly with cold water , and pat dry.

Add water to a large stockpot , filling half full.

Stir in maple syrup , bourbon , and pickling spice.

Add turkey and , if needed , additional water to cover.

Cover and chill turkey 2 days.

Soak hickory wood chunks in fresh water at least 30 minutes.

Prepare charcoal fire in smoker.

Let fire burn 20 to 30 minutes.

Remove turkey from water , discarding water mixture.

Pat dry.

Cut carrot and celery in half crosswise.

Stuff cavity with carrot , celery , and onion.

Pierce lemon with a fork.

Place in neck cavity.

Combine salt and pepper.

Rub mixture over turkey.

Fold wings under , and tie legs together with string , if desired.

Drain wood chunks , and place on coals.

Place water pan in smoker , and add water to depth of fill line.

Place turkey in center of lower food rack.

Cover with smoker lid.

Cook 6 hours or until a meat thermometer ins.

whole turkey, maple syrup, bourbon, pickling spices, wood chunks, carrot, celery rib, onion, lemon, salt, pepper, mixed greens, lemon wedge