by Astroboy

Created on: January 16, 2009   Last Updated: January 28, 2009

Our traditional notion of a turkey is the roasted one on our Thanksgiving dinner table, but there is this other turkey dish that is fast gaining popularity. The fried turkey is believed to originate from the Bayou Creole (Louisiana/Texas) cuisine. Like our Thanksgiving turkey, the fried turkey is also a 'family' dish where the norm is that it is cooked outdoors for large events like family gatherings. Thus, preparing and eating fried turkey can be a great way to spend quality family time together.

The fried turkey is an easy dish to prepare, especially when new technology brings us the convenience of a turkey-fryer. Before we prepare the dish, we will need to purchase a turkey. So what makes a 'good' turkey? Actually, most of us don't have much choice but to get a frozen turkey from the local supermarket. In this case, to make sure that your turkey is 'good', a good advice will be to allow the turkey to defrost for about four days beforehand and dry it with paper towels so as to firm up the skin.

Next, we can start the cooking process. This are the items we will need:

- Turkey Fryer
- Propane Gas Tank and Burner
- Marinade
- Marinade Injector
- Turkey Hanger
- Deep Fry Thermometer
- Oil
- Water
- Ruler
- Paper Towels

1. To make a flavorful and tasty fried turkey, we will need to marinade it well. To do so, we can choose our favourite marinade sauces from the local supermarket and inject it into the bird about at least half an hour before frying ( the earlier the turkey is marinated, the more flavorful it is). You can inject as much marinade as you like but the most crucial parts will be to inject the thighs and breasts.

2. Next, we will need to set up the frying apparatus. Remember that it is not safe to fry the turkey indoors, please find a empty space outdoors to set up the frying apparatus. As differently turkey fryers are set up differently, please refer to the instuctions that came with the fryer.

3. Now, we will measure the amount of oil needed. To do so, lower your turkey into the fryer using the hangar. Fill the fryer with water until it covers the turkey for about 2 inches. Next, remove the turkey anduse a ruler to measure the distance from the top of the fryer to the surface of the water. Pour away the water and dry the fryer with paper towels. Now, pour oil into the fryer until it equals the water level that was measured.

4. Next, we will need to heat the oil. Firstly, clip the thermometer to the fryer so it does not fall. Next, light the burner and wait for the temperature to rise to about 325F. This will take about 20 mins.

5. When the oil is hot enough, carefully lower the turkey into the fryer using the hanger. Now, we can wait for the turkey to cook. The cooking time of each turkey varies, a good estimate will be 3 mins per pound to cook. Even though this is a slow process, for the sake of safety, please do not leave the fryer unattended.

6. Take the turkey out of the oil. Slice into the thighs to check if it is done. If is is not, you can let if fry for a few more minutes.

7. When the turkey is done, let is cool for about half and hour before serving.

8. Meanwhile, check that the burner has been switched off. Let the oil cool down before pouring it away safely.

To make the dish a more balanced and healthy meal, side dishes of vegetables and fruits can be served. Asparagus and brocolli are classic vegetables that goes well with fried turkey. Last of all, what makes a good meal is one that is balanced, delicious and full of fond memories for the family.

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