Holiday Turkey Frying Tips

11/16/2017 (Permalink)

Explosion caused by turkey fryer

With Thanksgiving less than a week away, I’m sure most of you have already started planning and prepping for the big feast. Every Thanksgiving meal revolves around the turkey and there are numerous tried-and- true recipes out there, but if I had my pick a juicy fried turkey is where it’s at.

Here are some tips so your Thanksgiving festivities don’t end disastrous:

1. Keep outdoor fryers off decks, out of garages, and a safe distance away from trees and other structures.
2. Make sure the turkey is fully thawed and dry before cooking. Water that mixes into the hot oil can cause flare-ups.
3. Never operate a fryer outdoors in the rain or snow.
4. Place the fryer on a level surface and avoid moving it once it's in use.
5. Leave two feet between the tank and the burner when using a propane-powered fryer.
6. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid overfilling. Oil can ignite when it makes contact with the burner.
7. Choose a smaller turkey for frying. A bird that's 8 to 10 pounds is best; pass on turkeys over 12 pounds.
8. Never leave fryers unattended.
9. Purchase a fryer with temperature controls, and watch the oil temperature carefully. Cooking oil that is heated beyond its smoke point can catch fire. If you notice the oil is smoking, turn the fryer off.
10. Turn off the burner before lowering the turkey into the oil. Once the turkey is submerged, turn the burner on.
11. Wear goggles to shield your eyes, use oven mitts to protect your hands and arms, and keep a grease-rated fire extinguisher close by.
12. Skip the stuffing when frying turkey, and avoid water-based marinades.
13. Keep children and pets away from the fryer at all times.
14. Once finished, carefully remove the pot from the burner; place it on a level surface and cover to let the oil cool overnight before disposing.
15. Do not pour oil down the sink drain or disposal.
16. Opt for an oil-less fryer. This uses infrared heat, rather than oil, to cook the turkey.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!