Thanksgiving is just around the corner and that means turkey, lots and lots of turkey. One of the newest and most popular ways to cook that Thanksgiving turkey is in the deep fryer. Deep fried turkey may sound somewhat strange but it is growing in popularity for a number of reasons.

Deep frying takes less time

Waiting hours for a turkey to cook are long gone with a deep fryer. With the proper equipment, a turkey can be ready in thirty to forty minutes.

Deep frying is easy to prepare

The preparation of turkey for the fryer is simple. Prepare the fryer with the proper equipment and the proper amount of oil. Heat the oil to between 325 degrees and no higher than 350 degrees. Inject the bird with any desired flavoring and start cooking.

Deep frying gives a different flavor for the turkey

Deeper frying the turkey does give the bird a different flavor. There is almost always a more juicy bird from deep frying than regular oven roasting.

Here are some simple tips for better deep fried turkey:

Purchase a fresh turkey

Inject the turkey with flavoring

Know the proper cooking time and temperature

Purchase a fresh turkey

Never cook a frozen turkey in a deep fryer. Frozen turkeys cannot be used in a deep fryer due to safety issues. However, frozen turkeys can be thoroughly thawed and then cooked in a deep fryer. Fresh turkeys do produce the best results for deep frying. Fresh turkeys have a better flavor and are easier to prepare for deep frying.

Inject the turkey with flavoring

One major option with deep frying turkey is the ability to use flavor injections. Injecting the turkey can add new dimensions of flavor to the Thanksgiving feast. Many people work on basting the turkey as it cooks in the over. The basting method helps the turkey stay moist and more flavorful. There is no such opportunity during the deep frying method. The best way to ensure a flavorful bird is to inject some flavoring into it before cooking.

Know the proper cooking time and temperature

The generally accepted cooking time for deep fried turkey is approximately three to three and a half minutes per pound. The oil should be between 325 degrees and 350 degrees. Be sure to check the final temperature of the bird to ensure proper cooking.

When deep frying a turkey be sure to know all of the safety issues involved and follow them to the letter. There have been many serious injuries reported from accidents and careless operation of large deep fryers.

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