How to Safely Start and Use a LoCo Turkey Fryer

Frying a turkey in one of LoCo’s turkey fryer kits results in a juicy, crispy and flavorful bird. But proper setup and operation is key to success and safety. Follow this guide to securely start and use your LoCo turkey fryer.

Selecting the Right Fryer

LoCo offers several turkey fryer options. Consider:

• Fryer size – Choose 30qt or 36qt to fit 12-20lb birds

• Temperature control – SmartTemp models maintain oil temp automatically

• Ignition – SureSpark fryers feature push button ignition

• Portability – Built-in carts provide mobility

Ensure your fryer is assembled properly per instructions. Review safety warnings. Position on a flat, stable surface away from any combustibles.

Preparing the Turkey

• Thaw turkey completely before frying, allowing 24 hours per 4-5 lbs.

• Remove giblets from the cavity. Reserve for gravy or discard.

• Dry turkey thoroughly inside and out with paper towels. Moisture causes hot oil to spatter.

• Do not stuff the turkey. Stuffing prevents even cooking and hot oil saturation.

• Truss turkey legs together to keep shape during cooking.

• Lower slowly into hot oil to prevent splashing or overflow.

Setting Up the Fryer

• Place fryer on a flat, non-combustible surface like concrete away from buildings. Never use on wooden decks.

• Position away from kids, pets or activities. Hot oil can cause serious injury.

• Setup in an open outdoor area with good ventilation. Never use indoors.

• Have a Class B fire extinguisher on hand. Never use water on an oil fire.

Using Proper Oils

• Use high quality cooking oils like peanut, vegetable or canola. Do not use olive or butter oils.

• Avoid reusing oil. Fresh oil helps prevent splattering and uneven cooking.

• Do not overfill the fryer. Oil expands when heated. Consult manual for fill lines.

• Slowly lower turkey into hot oil to prevent overflow. Oil will displace.

Safe Fryer Operation

• Remove plastic ties binding the turkey and any filters in fryer pot handles.

• Follow ignition instructions in product manual. Keep face clear when lighting.

• Gradually heat oil to 360-375°F monitoring temp closely. Turn off burner if oil smokes.

• Use the hook and thermometer probe tools, not hands, when lowering turkey into hot oil.

• Maintain oil at 325-350°F during frying per your recipe. Adjust burner as needed.

• Cook turkey using proper time and temp to ensure food safety and prevent undercooking.

• Check internal temp of 165°F in breast and 175°F in thigh before removing from oil.

• Turn off burner. Remove turkey slowly and carefully to prevent splashing. Drain oil back into fryer.

Safe Oil Handling

• Let oil cool completely before handling or disposing. This takes several hours.

• To store, carefully filter through cheesecloth into air tight, non-plastic container.

• Keep stored oil in a cool, dark place. Reusing oil more than once is not recommended.

• When disposing, mix oil with an absorbent like kitty litter. Double bag and discard.

• Wash fryer with hot soapy water after each use. Thoroughly dry all parts.

Handy Tips and Suggestions

• Injecting marinades helps add flavor and moisture when frying. Apply rubs and herbs under skin.

• Fry multiple small turkeys instead of one large bird for quicker, more even cooking.

• Use an infrared thermometer to verify oil temp. Adjust burner to maintain proper heat.

• Monitor birds closely to avoid over browning. Adjust fry time down if needed.

• Frying on lower heat for a longer time can help prevent coating burn while fully cooking.

• Let turkey rest 20 minutes before carving for juicier meat. Tent with foil to keep warm.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Smoking Oil: Turn off heat and allow oil to cool. Ensure pot is clean. Don’t overfill.

Sputtering/Splashing: Oil is too low. Turkey is too wet. Lower turkey slowly into hot oil.

Burn indicator comes on: Turn off heat. Allow oil to cool and lower temp before reheating.

Temperature fluctuating: Windy conditions affect heat. Use shelter like garage or tent when needed.

Turkey skins too dark/burnt: Fry at lower temp (300°F) for longer time. Lower turkey in oil more slowly.

Key Safety Reminders

• Never leave a fryer unattended during use. Oil can ignite quickly.

• Keep children and pets well away from fryer during operation and cool down.

• Avoid moisture and freeze thaw cycles which can cause oil to spatter and overflow.

• Do not overfill the fryer. Hot oil can easily spill over sides.

• Fry in outdoor open areas only. Do not use fryer in garage or enclosed spaces.

With proper setup and usage, your LoCo turkey fryer will deliver perfect birds safely every time. Refer to your product manual for full safety tips and step-by-step instructions. Happy frying!