Tips for Frying a Turkey

Brenda Hoffman
Thanksgiving time is almost here. That means that it is almost time for frying a turkey again. This can be a fast, easy process if you follow some simple turkey frying tips and use the right equipment for deep frying turkey.

Correct Cooking Temperature

It is important to know the correct cooking temperature because if the oil isn't hot enough then the water inside the food will not cook the food quick enough and the oil will begin to penetrate the meat, thus making it taste greasy and be unhealthy for you. This is because the water vapor inside of the meat is what cooks the food, not the oil. For this reason you will always want to have a thermometer handy.

Don't Overfill Your Stockpot

Whenever you are frying a turkey you should put it into the stockpot while it is still cold. Then fill your stockpot with just enough cold water to cover the turkey. Now remove the bird and note where the water level is at. This is the amount of oil that you will need to use.

Know the Correct Cooking Time

Remember, it will take you less time whenever you are frying a turkey than it will to roast one.

Use a Dedicated Cooking Rack

Once your oil is at the right temperature, you will want to insert your turkey on a dedicated rack. Now cook your turkey at a consistent temperature for the right amount of time so that you don't have a turkey that is burnt on the outside and not cooked on the inside.

Keep the Lid Closed

In order to maintain the right temperature while you are frying a turkey, make sure to keep the lid closed.

Use the Correct Cooking Utensils

You will want to use either a slotted spoon or a pair of frying tongs whenever you are frying a turkey. This will make it easier and safer to take the turkey out of the deep fryer.

Cook In Batches

If you plan to have a lot of turkey, then you will want to fry your turkey in batches. This is especially important if you will be frying a turkey with batter since it won't crisp up.

Watch Out For Ice

Make sure that you take as much ice off of the turkey as possible before frying it.

Use Paper Towels

Whenever you are frying a turkey, you will want to have paper towel to place it on once you take it out of the deep fryer. This will help to remove any excess fat.

Follow Some Simple Safety Guidelines

If you are frying a turkey outdoors, you will need to follow some simple safety guidelines. To begin with you will need to have a bucket of sand handy in case there is a problem. You will also want to make sure that you are on level ground without anything flammable nearby. Also, make sure that you never leave it unattended.

Conclusion

By following these tips for frying a turkey you will have the best fried turkey you have ever tasted. So, make this a Thanksgiving to remember and fry your turkey up the right way.

Published by Brenda Hoffman

I am a college graduate and now a single mother of a wonderful daughter whom I am able to homeschool because I work as a full-time freelance writer from home.  View profile

1 Comments

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  • Malina Debrie10/5/2009

    I hear once you taste fried, you will not want baked or roasted again!

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