Turkey Fryer

[Wasch_24]

I was thinking it is easier to add a splash of oil then to try and dry out the inside of the bird but if it dries sufficiently on it's own then I guess it isn't a problem.

 

[caudio51]

I decided I am going to do one for Christmas. Watching Good Eats to learn how, I'm actually sitting here with notes :rofl:

 

[David]

I am so glad you bumped this! I was thinking about a question I had today since I haven't done one since last Christmas:

I understand the concept of putting the turkey in then adding water to make a mark for the exact amount of oil but...what is an approximate amount needed for a 12-14 pound bird? Obviously, I am buying the peanut oil ahead of time and am clueless on how much to get.

 

[Séamas]

The only thing I've ever used my turkey fryer for is boiling wort for beer.

It seems like a safer use for one, and beer is much better than turkey anyway.

 

[caudio51]

Alton said about 4 gallons and he suggested not using more than a 15lb bird.

 

[David]

Alton said about 4 gallons and he suggested not using more than a 15lb bird.

Thanks!

I remember reading that a 12-14 pound bird was the best size.

 

[caudio51]

Oh and here is his recipe

http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/recipes/recipe/0,1977,FOOD_9936_35148,00.html

He also reccomended peanut oil

 

[jcgoldner]

Dave 4-5 gallons to be safe. I've been frying them up for 4 or 5 years now and the best place I've seen is Sam's Club for the peanut oil. The sell it in a 35lb container for around $28.

Tom is right on staying below the 16 lb mark. I've been doing two birds in the 14lb range, one brined and the other plain. Thanksgiving has gotten even better with turkey frying since you are outside heating up the oil, frying the bird and enjoying you favorite cigars with family. Can't beat it!!!

 

[geckoheart]

The 35 pound boxes work well and agree that Sam's always has the best price.

I fried two 13 pounders on Sunday night for a retired VP of the company I work for. Had to serve 23 people, most were originally from England and said it was great. Feeding Cajun Fried Turkey to to a bunch of Brits- that was risky. The first turkey served everyone, then half of the second turkey was eaten with the second and third trips. My first venture at it for a fee. Thankfully all went well.

I only had a few samples since I was paid to cook and serve, but I am ready to cook my own this year.

 

[geckoheart]

Also enjoyed a LFD Ligero while getting setup and while the birds were frying. While the birds were frying, all of the guests arrived to find me in front of the house with the turkeys and a cigar. One of the guests and I started taking cigars. He's been invited to botl.org.

 

[caudio51]

I need to go shopping tomorrow for a pot and a burner.

 

[geckoheart]

Bass Pro Shops is has one on sale

 

[jrohrer]

OH YEAH!!!...almost gobble time boys!

love thanksgiving!!

 

[caudio51]

I finally did my first bird yesterday. I did a simple brine solution of salt water and brown sugar. It was such a simple and fast process and the bird came out fantastic!

 

[jmatkins]

I finally did my first bird yesterday. I did a simple brine solution of salt water and brown sugar. It was such a simple and fast process and the bird came out fantastic!

Sounds good, I have done about 5 or 6 to date over the last 5 years. Oh and congrats.

 

[caudio51]

Thanks

Unfortunately I am now required to do this for Easter & Thanksgiving

 

[jmatkins]

Thanks

Unfortunately I am now required to do this for Easter & Thanksgiving

Hey, I whish I was asked to do it more often. It is a good time to sit outside and enjoy a good cigar and a few drinks while every one else is running around going crazy during the holidays. Or maybe thats just at my house. Plus they don't like it for Turkey day any more since you can't make the giblet gravy.

 

[caudio51]

Yea, it was nice to be outside, just wish it was warmer. Why can't you make the gravy?

 

[tedski]

No turkey "drippings" when you fry ...

 

[caudio51]

ah yea..