Turkey Fryer Canning: Is It Possible?

Home canning has become increasingly popular, with many people turning to it as a way of life. However, it can be a daunting task for beginners, and one of the most common concerns is finding a suitable heat source for the canning process. While some people use electric stoves or gas stoves, these options may not always be efficient or safe, especially when dealing with glass top stoves or limited burner sizes. This has led some home canners to consider using a turkey fryer as an alternative heat source.

Using a turkey fryer for canning has its pros and cons. On the one hand, it can be a viable option for those with glass top stoves or insufficient burner sizes. It also allows for canning to be done outdoors, keeping the heat and mess out of the house. On the other hand, one of the biggest challenges is regulating the temperature effectively. Turkey fryers tend to have higher BTUs than what is recommended for canning, and fluctuations in temperature can interfere with proper pressure and sealing.

So, can you use a turkey fryer for canning? The answer is yes, but with caution. While some people have successfully used turkey fryers for water bath canning, pressure canning requires more precise temperature control, and high heat can cause issues with sealing and even put out the flame. Those who choose to use a turkey fryer for canning should closely monitor the process and make adjustments as needed to ensure food safety and the quality of the final product.

Turkey fryers can be used for water bath canning

One advantage of using a turkey fryer for water bath canning is that it keeps the heat and mess outdoors. This is especially beneficial when canning large batches, as it prevents the kitchen from becoming hot and humid. Additionally, the sturdy frame of the fryer provides a stable platform for the canning pot. For those with glass top stoves, using a turkey fryer can also help avoid potential damage to the glass from high temperatures.

When using a turkey fryer for water bath canning, it is essential to follow safety precautions. Ensure that the fryer is set up in a safe, isolated area, away from flammable materials. Always keep a close eye on the fryer and adjust the gas flow as needed to regulate the heat. Be cautious when handling hot jars to avoid accidental burns or spills.

While turkey fryers can be used for water bath canning, they may not be suitable for pressure canning due to the difficulty in maintaining consistent temperatures. Pressure canning requires precise temperature control to ensure the safety of the canned goods. However, for water bath canning, a turkey fryer can be a viable option, especially for those with limited indoor space or concerns about heat and mess.

They are not suitable for pressure canning due to high and uncontrollable heat

Turkey fryers are not suitable for pressure canning due to the high and uncontrollable heat they generate. They are rated at a much higher number of BTUs than is required for pressure canning, which can cause issues with pressure regulation. Pressure canners should not be used on burners over 12,000 BTUs, while most turkey fryers have a minimum of 21,000 BTUs. This high heat can cause fluctuations in internal temperature, interfering with proper pressure and causing issues with sealing.

The high heat of a turkey fryer can also cause siphoning, where the broth comes out of the jars, and can lead to food spoilage if the temperature is not properly regulated. It is important to maintain a steady temperature when pressure canning to ensure the safety of the preserved food.

Additionally, the use of a turkey fryer for pressure canning can be dangerous. The high heat can cause the flame to go out, potentially leading to a fire hazard. It is crucial to follow safety guidelines when canning to prevent accidents and injuries.

While turkey fryers may not be suitable for pressure canning, they can be used for water bath canning. Water bath canning does not require the same level of temperature control as pressure canning, and the high heat of a turkey fryer can speed up the process. However, it is important to monitor the canner closely to prevent boiling over.

Overall, while turkey fryers can be a convenient source of heat for water bath canning, they are not suitable for pressure canning due to the high and uncontrollable heat they produce. It is important to prioritize safety and follow recommended guidelines when choosing a heat source for canning.

They are a good option for keeping the heat and mess outside

Using a turkey fryer for canning is a good option for keeping the heat and mess outside. One user notes that they have used a turkey fryer successfully for water bathing and a little pressure canning. They add that the major rule is to never walk away from the fryer. The user also mentions that the advantage of this method is that it keeps the heat and mess outside the house. They can simply sit in a lawn chair and adjust the gas flow to regulate the heat.

Another user mentions that they have used the side burner of their gas grill for water baths for jelly. A third user says that they have canned with a turkey fryer for 20 years. A fourth user notes that they use a turkey fryer for their hot water bath as it works great. They add that it is difficult for pressure canning, however.

A fifth user mentions that they use a turkey fryer burner as it gets the heat outside. A sixth user says that they have used a turkey fryer for years and that it is wonderful for boiling water bath canning. The water heats up very fast. A seventh user adds that they use one when canning with their tall All American 941 canner. An eighth user mentions that they use a turkey fryer when canning deer.

It is important to note that some sources advise against using a turkey fryer for canning. One source mentions that the inability to regulate the temperature effectively can cause fluctuations in internal temperature that are broad enough to interfere with proper pressure, cause siphoning, and disrupt proper sealing. Another source mentions that turkey fryers are rated at way too many BTUs to can, even at their lowest setting, so you can't regulate the pressure correctly.

They are not suitable for use on a glass stove top

While a turkey fryer can be used for canning, it is not suitable for use on a glass stove top. Most manufacturers do not recommend canning on glass stove tops because the high heat can crack the glass top. Many water bath canners have grooves in the bottom that allow heat to build up and reflect back onto the heating surface. This can cause the stove top to crack.

If you are set on using a turkey fryer for canning, it is important to note that you should never leave it unattended. While it can be tempting to walk away and multitask, this is not an option when using a turkey fryer as a heat source. The high heat output of a turkey fryer can be difficult to regulate, and if left unattended, it could cause a fire or other safety hazard.

Additionally, the high heat output of a turkey fryer may be too much for some canners. It is important to use a canner that is rated for the BTUs of the turkey fryer. Using a canner with a lower BTU rating can cause the canner to crack or break, which could be dangerous.

Finally, using a turkey fryer for canning can be messy. The high heat output can cause the water in the canner to boil over, creating a mess on your stove top and potentially causing damage. It is important to monitor the turkey fryer closely to avoid this issue.

In conclusion, while a turkey fryer can be used for canning, it is not suitable for use on a glass stove top due to the high heat output and potential for mess and damage. If you are set on using a turkey fryer for canning, it is important to take the necessary precautions and never leave it unattended.

They are a good alternative for those without access to gas

Turkey fryers are a good alternative for those without access to gas. They can be used for water bath canning and, to a lesser extent, pressure canning. However, it is important to note that the high BTUs of turkey fryers make it difficult to regulate the temperature, which can cause fluctuations in internal temperature and pressure, leading to siphoning and sealing issues.

To use a turkey fryer for canning, an adjustable regulator is recommended to control the flame. Keeping the setup out of any breeze is also important to maintain the desired temperature. One user suggested using a piece of steel or a cast-iron skillet as a diffuser between the flame and the pot to reduce the heat output.

When using a turkey fryer for canning, it is crucial never to leave it unattended. The advantage of this method is that it keeps the heat and mess outside the house, making it easier to manage any boil-overs that may occur.

While some people have successfully canned using turkey fryers, others have reported issues with sealing and siphoning due to temperature and pressure fluctuations. It is important to follow safety guidelines and adjust the flame accordingly to avoid these problems.

In conclusion, turkey fryers can be a viable option for those without access to gas, but they require careful monitoring and adjustment to ensure successful canning.

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