Masterbuilt Fryer: Can You Sous Vide With It?

The Masterbuilt Electric Fryer is a versatile appliance that can be used for frying, boiling, and steaming a variety of foods. With a large cooking capacity, it can accommodate up to a 20-pound turkey, making it perfect for holiday cooking or large family meals. The fryer features a stainless-steel exterior and a porcelain-coated inner pot, as well as a powerful heating element that heats oil quickly and efficiently. While it is an excellent tool for cooking turkey, it can also be used for other dishes, such as steamed mussels, fried wings, and crawfish boils. The Masterbuilt Electric Fryer is easy to use and clean, making it a convenient addition to any kitchen.

How to assemble the Masterbuilt Electric Fryer

To assemble the Masterbuilt Electric Fryer, follow these steps:

Firstly, unpack the fryer and carefully lay out the various components. You will need to insert the inner pot into the outer shell. To do this, insert the inner pot at an angle to fit the valve into the side opening of the outer shell.

Secondly, slide the control panel and element down onto the mounting bracket on the side of the outer shell. Ensure that the control panel is correctly attached, with the heating element positioned inside the inner pot. This is important for the appliance to operate as a safety feature.

Thirdly, place the basket inside the inner pot. Then, insert the breakaway power cord into the connection on the control panel, ensuring that "This Side Up" is showing for a proper connection.

Finally, fill the fryer with oil or water to the minimum or maximum fill line, as indicated in the manual. Attach the breakaway power cord to the control panel and plug it into an outlet.

Now your Masterbuilt Electric Fryer is assembled and ready for use!

Some additional safety and setup considerations:

• Maintain a minimum distance of 18 inches from the rear and sides and 40 inches from the top of the appliance to any combustible material.
• Clean the appliance prior to use.
• Do not use an extension cord with this appliance as it may cause damage, loss of energy, and increase the risk of tripping.
• Always attach the breakaway cord with the plug to the appliance first, then plug the cord into the outlet.
• Do not use the appliance outdoors, it is for indoor use only.
• Place the unit on a level and stable surface to prevent tipping.
• Do not overfill the pot past the max fill line.
• Pre-heating oil or water may take up to 45 minutes, so take advantage of this time to prepare your food.
• Keep the lid closed during pre-heating and cooking to reduce heating time and keep the temperature consistent.
• The power light will illuminate when the unit is plugged in and the element is mounted correctly.
• The ready indicator light will turn on when the set temperature is reached.

How to prepare the food for sous vide

Preparing food for sous vide is simple and can be done in a few easy steps. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Select your ingredients: Choose the food you want to cook. Almost anything can be cooked sous vide, but some popular options include tougher cuts of meat, eggs, pork, lamb, vegetables, chicken, and seafood.
• Season your food: Seasoning your food is an important step as it adds flavour and can impact the texture. You can use salt, pepper, garlic powder, fresh herbs, or any other spices and seasonings of your choice. It is recommended to season just before cooking or after cooking and before searing for red meat to avoid altering the texture.
• Bag your food: Place your seasoned food inside a zipper-lock freezer bag. It is important to use a freezer bag as the seal on thinner bags can degrade over long cooking times. If you want to remove the air from the bag, you can use the water displacement method. Leave the last inch of the seal open, lower the bag into a pot of water, and seal it before removing from the water.
• Prepare your water bath: Fill a large pot or container with water. Attach your sous vide machine or immersion circulator and set the desired temperature. Make sure the water level is high enough to completely cover the bagged food during cooking.
• Cook your food: Once the water reaches the set temperature, carefully lower the bagged food into the water bath. Clip the bag to the side of the pot if needed to ensure it stays submerged. Refer to specific recipes for recommended cooking times and temperatures.
• Sear your food (optional): For a crispy crust, remove the food from the bag and pat it dry. Preheat a pan over high heat and sear each side for a minute or so. This step is optional but can add flavour and texture to your dish.
• Enjoy your meal: Allow your food to rest for a few minutes, then serve and enjoy the perfectly cooked results!

By following these steps, you can easily prepare your food for sous vide cooking and achieve delicious and consistent results.

How to set the temperature and cooking time

Setting the temperature and cooking time is a crucial step in achieving the desired results with your Masterbuilt Electric Turkey Fryer. Here's a detailed guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Understand the Controls

Before you start, familiarize yourself with the control panel of your Masterbuilt fryer. This is where you will adjust the temperature and set the cooking time. The control panel usually includes buttons for power, start, and stop, as well as a display to show the current temperature.

Step 2: Refer to the User Manual

Each model of the Masterbuilt fryer may have slightly different instructions for setting the temperature and cooking time. Therefore, it is essential to refer to the user manual provided with your specific model. This manual will guide you through the correct temperature settings and cooking times for various types of food, especially turkey.

Step 3: Set the Temperature

After preparing your food, such as seasoning your turkey, you will place it in the fryer basket. Now, set the temperature according to the instructions in your user manual. Make sure to select the desired temperature range, as this will impact the cooking process and the final result.

Step 4: Monitor the Temperature

Throughout the cooking process, it is important to monitor the temperature to ensure even cooking and prevent overheating. Keep an eye on the temperature display and adjust the settings as needed to maintain the desired temperature.

Step 5: Set the Cooking Time

The cooking time will depend on the type and size of the food you are preparing. For example, when frying a turkey, the cooking time is usually based on the weight of the turkey, such as 3.5 to 4 minutes per pound. Set the timer accordingly to ensure your food is cooked thoroughly.

Step 6: Adjust as Needed

Depending on the specific model of your Masterbuilt fryer, you may have additional features or settings that allow for more precise control over the cooking process. Refer to your user manual to understand all the available options and make adjustments as needed during the cooking process.

Step 7: Practice Makes Perfect

Remember that achieving perfect results with your Masterbuilt Electric Turkey Fryer may take a bit of practice. Each time you use your fryer, pay attention to the temperature settings, cooking times, and the overall performance of the fryer. With experience, you will develop a better understanding of how to set the optimal temperature and cooking time for different types of food.

How to safely fry the food

Frying food can be daunting, but if you follow some simple rules, you can fry food safely and confidently. Here are some tips on how to do it:

Prepare the Food and Work Area:

Before you start frying, make sure your food is thoroughly dry. Excess moisture on the food's surface can cause the oil to splatter violently when the food is added. Use paper towels to pat the food dry before frying, and ensure your work area is clean and free of any clutter or flammable materials. Maintain a minimum distance of 18 inches from the rear and sides, and 40 inches from the top of the appliance to any combustible materials.

Choose the Right Oil:

Select an oil with a high smoke point, i.e., an oil that can be heated to a high temperature before it smokes and burns. Peanut oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil, canola oil, and vegetable oil are all suitable options for deep frying. Oils rich in polyphenols or antioxidants, such as olive oil and rapeseed oil, are also good choices as they appear to be less damaged by high temperatures.

Use the Right Equipment:

Use a sturdy, wide pan specifically designed for frying, such as a heavy-bottomed pot or a Dutch oven. Never fill the pan more than two-thirds full with oil to prevent spillage when food is added. Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature, ensuring it stays between 160°C and 190°C. Alternatively, test the oil temperature with a cube of bread; it should brown in 30-40 seconds when the oil is at a moderate heat of around 180°C.

Safe Frying Techniques:

When adding food to the hot oil, gently lower it into the oil. Do not drop it from a height as this can be dangerous. Always use long-handled utensils such as tongs or a slotted spoon to maintain a safe distance from the hot oil. Keep a well-fitting lid or a large, flat baking sheet close by in case the oil catches fire. Never leave a pan of hot oil unattended, and always turn the pan handles away from the front of the cooker to prevent accidents.

Clean-up and Disposal:

Allow the oil to cool completely before disposing of it. Never pour oil down the sink, as it can cause blocked pipes. Instead, pour the cooled oil into a jug and then back into its original bottle for disposal. For easy clean-up, choose an electric fryer with dishwasher-safe components, such as the Masterbuilt 10 Liter XL Electric Fryer.

Troubleshooting guide

The oil temperature is not heating up

Check that the temperature control is set to the desired range and that the fryer is properly plugged into an electrical outlet. If the issue persists, there may be an electrical problem, and you should contact Masterbuilt customer service.

The fryer is not turning on

Make sure the fryer is plugged in and that the outlet is working. If not, check the circuit breaker or fuse box. If this doesn't work, contact Masterbuilt customer service for assistance.

An error message is displayed on the control panel

Refer to the user manual for a list of error codes and their solutions. If the issue persists, contact Masterbuilt customer service for further help.

General safety guidelines

• Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper setup and use.
• Choose a safe location: use the fryer outdoors on a level, stable surface, away from buildings, trees, or other flammable objects.
• Never use the fryer in an enclosed space or on a wooden deck.
• Wear protective gear: use heat-resistant gloves and eye protection when handling hot oil. Long sleeves and pants are also recommended.
• Make sure the turkey is completely thawed and dried before frying.
• Never overfill the fryer with oil, and never leave it unattended while in use.
• Keep children and pets away from the fryer at all times.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and ensure everyone knows how to use it.

Cleaning instructions

• Allow the oil to cool down before draining it. Place a container under the drain valve, then open the valve to release the oil.
• Remove the fryer basket and soak it in hot soapy water. Use a soft bristle brush to remove residue, then rinse and dry.
• Wipe down the heating element and surrounding area with a soft sponge or cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners.
• Wipe down the fryer body and lid with a soft sponge or cloth. Use a mild detergent and warm water to remove grease, then rinse and dry.
• Store the fryer in a clean, dry location, avoiding stacking heavy objects on top.

Common issues with the Masterbuilt Electric Fryer

Some customers have reported issues with the heat level, with the fryer either not getting hot enough or getting too hot. There are also mixed reviews on functionality and value for money. Some users have reported problems with the power not working, indicator lights not functioning, or the fryer not turning on.

Frequently asked questions