A Step-by-Step Guide for a Perfect Thanksgiving
Deep-frying a turkey for Thanksgiving is a thrilling way to cook this festive bird and yields a crispy, flavourful result that many people prefer over roasting. The process begins with a brine by combining brown sugar, mustard, garlic, and cayenne pepper. Brining the turkey for 35 hours ensures it’s juicy and well-seasoned.
You can use various equipment for frying: a stockpot, an electric fryer, or a pot-and-propane setup. The best deep fryers come with a thermostat and a metal basket, which makes handling the turkey safer and easier.
Safety is crucial—always fry outdoors to avoid fire hazards, and never leave the hot oil unattended. With careful preparation and attention, deep-frying can transform your Thanksgiving turkey into a spectacular centrepiece and become a new family holiday tradition.
Deep Fried Turkey
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 3 cups packed light brown sugar about 1 1/4 pounds
- 1 1/2 cups Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
- 2 gallons cold water
- 1 bunch of thyme
- 1 head of garlic separated into cloves and crushed
- 1 12-pound turkey
- 2 1/2 gallons vegetable oil
Instructions
Directions
- In a large stockpot, whisk the brown sugar with the mustard, salt, and cayenne. Gradually whisk in the water, then add the thyme and garlic. Add the turkey, cover, and brine in the refrigerator for 35 hours.
- In a turkey fryer or an 18-quart or larger stockpot, bring the oil to 400°F; this can take up to an hour. Remove the turkey from the brine and pat it dry inside and out with paper towels. Transfer the turkey to a frying basket, breast side up.
- Lower the turkey into the hot oil and fry for 3 minutes per pound, 36 minutes. Lift the basket out of the fryer and drain the turkey on a rack set over a rimmed baking sheet for 15 minutes. Carve and serve.
Trina Stewart is the Editor of HOMES+ Locale Magazine. Originally from Cambridge, Ontario, Trina loves exploring the area and embracing the activities, events, and local businesses.
