A Visual Guide to Deep Frying Turkey for Thanksgiving

Frying a whole turkey is a showstopping way to prepare the main event on Thanksgiving. When done properly deep-fried turkey is juicy, crispy and full of flavor. The process requires focus and care to do it safely. If you’re considering taking the plunge into frying turkey this year, this visual guide will show you how it’s done!

Why Choose Deep-Fried Turkey?

Deep frying a turkey offers several advantages over roasting:

• Super Crispy Skin – The hot oil crisps the skin beautifully. Fried turkey skin is crackly and delicious.

• Moist Meat – The high heat quickly cooks and seals the meat, locking in juices incredibly well.

• Faster Cooking – A 10-12 lb turkey cooks in just 45-60 minutes in hot oil, Much faster than roasting,

• Showstopper Presentation – Lowering a golden fried turkey onto the table is dramatic and impressive.

• New Flavors – The light frying oil seals in moisture without adding heavy flavors.

Equipment You’ll Need

To deep fry turkey safely, you need the right gear:

• Turkey fryer pot – A heavy stockpot with basket and burner. Choose the right size to fit your turkey.

• Propane tank – Standard 20 lb tank with enough propane to heat oil and cook turkey.

• Oil thermometer – Essential for monitoring oil temp. Use a high-heat thermometer designed for frying.

• Thick frying gloves – Protect your hands and arms when lowering turkey into the hot oil.

• Long utensils – Use long tongs and ladles to lower, turn and remove turkey.

• Fire extinguisher – Have an “ABC” extinguisher on hand in case of emergencies.

Choosing and Prepping the Turkey

Picking the right turkey and proper prep ensures the best results:

• 10-15 lb turkey – Stick with a smaller bird, 10-15 lbs. Larger turkeys are harder to fry evenly.

• Completely thawed – Be sure turkey is fully thawed before frying for even cooking.

• Brined overnight – For maximum moisture, brine turkey in saltwater solution 12-24 hours.

• Pat very dry – Remove from brine and pat extremely dry. Remaining moisture can cause spattering.

• Inject with marinade (optional) – Flavor injecting adds extra moisture and taste. Cajun style works well.

Step-by-Step Frying Method

Once prepped, follow these steps closely for safety:

• Set up turkey fryer pot safely on level ground outdoors. Position away from buildings in case of flare-ups.

• Fill pot no more than halfway with frying oil. Peanut and vegetable oils work well.

• Heat oil to 350°F. This takes 30-45 minutes. Use thermometer to monitor temp.

• Very slowly lower turkey into hot oil using long hooks. Be extremely careful of splatter.

• Fry turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound, about 45-60 minutes total. Watch oil temp and adjust as needed.

• Use thermometer to test doneness, 170°F in breast and 180°F in thighs.

• When done, remove turkey slowly and carefully. Drain excess oil back into pot.

• Let turkey rest 20 minutes before carving to allow juices to set. Dig in!

Serving Up Your Fried Feast

Once cooked, your crispy masterpiece is ready to serve. Round it out with classic sides:

• Gravy – Make skillet gravy from the turkey drippings. Fried turkey gravy is incredibly flavorful.

• Mashed potatoes – A Thanksgiving must-have! Creamy potatoes pair perfectly.

• Green bean casserole – Crispy onion topping contrasts nicely with the tender beans.

• Cornbread dressing – Savory turkey dressing soaks up all the great pan juices.

• Cranberry sauce – Tart, sweet cranberry sauce balances the fried flavors.

Safety Tips to Remember

While incredibly delicious, there are risks to deep frying turkey. Follow these tips:

• Fry outdoors only on flat, stable ground.

• No kids or pets nearby. It’s a hot, splattery process.

• Use potholders, long sleeves and protective eyewear.

• Don’t overfill oil past halfway point. It will bubble up.

• If oil begins smoking heavily, turn off burner immediately.

• Have fire extinguisher right on hand just in case.

• Never leave the fryer unattended, even for a minute.

So embrace the messy, magical tradition of deep-fried turkey this Thanksgiving! Just remember to put safety first and you’ll have a one-of-a-kind holiday centerpiece to impress your guests.