Deep Frying a Turkey

Directions

• Choose a turkey fryer with a sturdy and steady base and pick up a food thermometer to test the doneness of the meat and a pair of heavy-duty barbequing mitts. It's also a good idea to keep a fire extinguisher close at hand.
• Choose a fresh turkey or make sure it's completely thawed before deep-frying. Remove excess fat and any parts stored inside the bird. Do not stuff.
• Get your deep-fryer ready to go. Place it outdoors, out of the wind on a level dirt or grassy area away from buildings and decks. Avoid cement. Oil stains may be difficult to clean up. Put a drip pan under the fryer.
• To determine the amount of canola oil you need by placing the turkey, breast down, on the frying stand or in the basket. Lower into the empty pot and add water to about 2 inches above the turkey. Remove the turkey and note the water level. Remove the water and thoroughly dry the pot. Thoroughly dry turkey inside and out.
• Fill the pot with canola oil just to the required level. Using a deep-frying thermometer, heat the oil to 375°F. This usually takes from about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Monitor the oil temperature to ensure it does not overheat.
• When the oil is ready, slowly lower the prepared turkey into the fryer. For a whole turkey, estimate 3 minutes per pound as the cooking time. Whole turkeys of about 10 lb and turkey parts are best for frying. Larger birds are harder to handle and the extra cooking time results in the skin and outer meat being overcooked.
• Remove turkey carefully from the oil, and check the internal temperature using a food thermometer. The turkey is cooked when the internal temperature is 170°F. The meat will be juicy and tender.