Frying a turkey is one of the best ways to get a juicy, flavorful bird with crispy skin. But properly securing the turkey on the fryer stand is crucial for safety and even cooking. Follow this comprehensive guide to learn how to place your turkey on the stand correctly every time.
Choose the Right Fryer Stand
The fryer stand holds the turkey stable in the hot oil. Look for these key features when selecting a stand:
- Sturdy metal construction to bear the turkey’s weight
- Flat rack to hold the turkey securely
- Tall sides to prevent spillovers
- Large enough for the size of your turkey
Stainless steel or aluminum turkey fryer stands with removable racks tend to work best Measure your turkey and pick a stand at least 2 inches wider to allow ample room, Wobbly or unstable stands can cause accidents
Safely Set Up Your Fryer
Proper set up is crucial for avoiding fires or other safety hazards:
- Place outside on a flat, level nonflammable surface away from anything flammable
- Position the propane tank several feet away from the burner
- Fill vessel with peanut oil to the fill line – about 5 inches of space at the top
- Heat oil to 350°F and monitor temperature with a thermometer
- Have an appropriate fire extinguisher on hand just in case
Prepare the Turkey
Proper preparation leads to the best results
- Thaw completely in the fridge if frozen
- Remove giblets and neck from cavities
- Pat turkey dry inside and out with paper towels
- Season with herbs, rubs or marinades as desired
- Keep the turkey refrigerated until ready to fry
Put the Turkey on the Fryer Stand
Once your oil is hot it’s time to carefully place the turkey
- With the burner off, slowly lower the turkey into the hot oil using hooks
- Lower it slowly and carefully to prevent splashing
- Ensure it is completely submerged in the oil
- Turn the burner back on once secured on the stand
Fry and Finish the Turkey
Now for the fun part – frying your turkey:
- Maintain oil temperature at 350°F
- Fry for 3-4 minutes per pound
- Use a meat thermometer to verify 165°F internal temperature
- Once golden brown, turn off heat and remove slowly
- Let rest 15-20 minutes before carving
Proper technique for putting a turkey on the fryer stand is vital for safety and evenly cooked meat. Following these tips will help you successfully fry up the tastiest turkey for your next holiday feast. Just be sure to thaw thoroughly, prep correctly, and fry at the right temperature and your turkey will turn out juicy and delicious.
Common Turkey Frying Questions
What size turkey fryer do I need?
Choose a fryer 2 inches larger than your turkey. 10-12 quart fryers work for most turkeys up to 14 lbs.
Is it safe to fry a turkey indoors?
No, only fry turkeys outdoors due to the fire risks of hot oil.
How long does it take to fry a turkey?
About 3-4 minutes per pound, so a 15 lb turkey takes 45-60 minutes.
What oil is best for frying turkey?
Peanut oil is most commonly used as it has a high smoke point. Canola or vegetable oil also works.
Do I need to inject or brine the turkey?
While not required, injecting or brining adds extra moisture and flavor.
Can I stuff the turkey before frying?
Do not fry stuffed turkeys, as the stuffing won’t cook through. Injecting flavor is a better option.
With the right fryer stand set up and preparation, you’ll be rewarded with the most delicious fried turkey ever!
Step 3: Prepare the Fryer
Introduction: How to Fry a Turkey
Turkey Fryer Lighting Instructions
FAQ
How do you position a turkey in a fryer?
Which end of turkey goes in the fryer first?
How do you position a turkey in an oil less fryer?
How do you put a turkey on a rack?
How do I set up an outdoor turkey fryer?
How to set up an outdoor turkey fryer: An outdoor turkey fryer includes a burner, stand, pot, thermometer, hanger or basket and lowering mechanism. You’ll need to provide a propane tank. Choose an open space to set up your outdoor fryer. It should be on a flat, level and hard surface that is at least 10 feet from the home in any direction.
Can you fry a Turkey in an indoor Fryer?
Usually using an indoor fryer is as simple as filling the fryer with oil to the pre-marked level and lowering in the fresh or thawed turkey with the fryer basket. Tip: Peanut oil is the most popular type of oil used for deep frying a turkey, but any oil with a smoking point of 450 degrees Fahrenheit will work.
How do you cook a Turkey in a frying pan?
Put on a protective apron and gloves. Preheat oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Attach a fry thermometer to the side of the pot or use a digital read thermometer. Allow turkey to come to room temperature while the oil heats. Once the oil is the right temperature, turn off the burner and lower the empty basket into the pot for about 30 seconds.
Do you need a fryer for a Turkey?
Check your fryer to be sure it’s in good working order. Your fryer should have a burner, a solid stand, a hanger or basket, and a thermometer. You will also need a propane tank and a fire extinguisher rated for grease fires. You don’t have to have a fryer specifically for turkeys, but it should be big enough to accommodate your bird.
How much space do you need to fry a Turkey?
Frying a feast-size turkey (for this recipe, a 12- to 15-pounder) requires that you have both a very large pot and fryer burner, as well as plenty of space to safely fry outside. Choose a generous outside space on level pavement or asphalt at least 10 feet away from vehicles, decks, trees, and structures.
How do you cook a frozen turkey in a fryer?
Open the neck cavity and make a small slit where the turkey legs meet the breast. This will help ensure that the oil can flow freely through the bird, helping it to cook more evenly. Most frozen turkeys will already have this done, but fresh turkeys will not. Place the turkey in the fryer and cover it with water to measure the oil you’ll need.