Deep-Frying Your Turkey

Deep-Frying a Turkey

By: RecipeCove.com

Deep-fried turkeys have become very popular over the past few years. Done properly, deep-fried turkeys can be delicious, but preparing them can be dangerous if not done properly. Proper equipment and proper precautions are necessary for a good result.

Deep-frying whole turkeys should always be done outside using proper equipment. A deep-fryer specifically designed for turkeys should be used. The fryer should have a solid base that holds the pot securely in place. A number of models come with tripod (3) legs. These should be avoided as they are not stable. The pot should be large enough to hold the size turkey you plan on cooking.

The pot must be filled with oil but care should be taken to not overfill. Remember, when you place the turkey in the hot oil the oil level will rise. If the oil level is too high this could cause the oil to spill over the side and catch on fire. In addition, the temperature of the oil should be monitored closely. If the oil becomes too hot it may ignite.

The turkey should be completely thawed before immersing it in the oil. Immersing a frozen or partially thawed turkey into hot oil may cause excessive splattering or cause the oil to spill over the pot. In addition to making sure the turkey is thawed also make sure that the turkey is as dry as possible before placing it in the oil.

The oil should be heated to 390 degrees prior to placing the turkey in the oil. Once the turkey has been immersed the oil should be maintained at a temperature of 365 degrees.

As the turkey cooks, move it around in the oil occasionally. Whole turkeys take approximately 3 to 4 minutes per pound to fry. When the turkey is done it will float to the surface of the oil and the skin should be crispy and brown. Make sure to check the internal temperature with a good meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the breast meat should be 180 degrees.

Keep the deep-fryer as far away from combustible items as possible. The deep-fryer should not be placed on a deck, on a table or near any building. In addition, never leave the deep-fryer unattended and NEVER allow children or pets near the deep-fryer.

Once cooking is complete, let the oil cool COMPLETELY before transferring it to a container for disposal. This may take several hours so please be patient.