Infrared Fryers: The Perfect Turkey Cooking Solution?

The Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Infrared Turkey Fryer is a popular choice for cooking turkey. It uses infrared cooking technology powered by propane to create an even heat with no flare-ups. The infrared fryer is safer and cleaner than traditional deep-fried turkey setups, which require gallons of oil. While some prefer the taste and smoky flavour of a true deep-fried turkey, the infrared fryer is a healthier option that produces juicy meat and a lightly golden skin.

Infrared fryer setup

Setting up an infrared fryer can be a little tricky. The instructions included in the manual usually consist of small drawings with no accompanying text, so they can be difficult to follow. The setup requires some assembly, including screwing on the legs and handles and the regulator device. It is recommended to have two people assemble the fryer to ensure it is done correctly, especially when attaching the propane tank. Once assembled, the inner liner of the fryer needs to be seasoned like a cast-iron pan. This can be done by rubbing the inside with vegetable oil using a paper towel, and then heating it up until it turns dark and stops smoking.

After seasoning, the turkey is placed in a basket, which is then inserted into the inner chamber of the fryer. The fryer then cooks the turkey using infrared cooking technology, creating an even heat distribution without the need for hot oil. It is important to note that the infrared fryer does not have a lid, but one may be included for use in windy or cold outdoor conditions or for additional browning. The cooking time for a turkey in an infrared fryer is typically about 10 minutes per pound, and it is recommended to cook the turkey to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Some models of infrared fryers, such as the Char-Broil Big Easy, offer additional accessories like a cover and a 22-piece accessory kit that enables frying various foods other than a whole bird. It is important to note that cooking a stuffed turkey in an infrared fryer is not recommended due to the extended time required to heat the middle to the safe temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, the infrared-cooked turkey may not have the same moist and juicy texture as a deep-fried turkey, and achieving extra-crispy skin can be challenging.

Infrared fryers provide a cleaner, safer, and relatively easy way to cook a turkey compared to traditional deep-frying methods. While the initial setup may require some effort, the cooking process is generally low-effort and smooth sailing once the fryer is correctly assembled and hooked up to the propane tank.

Turkey preparation

Preparing a turkey using an infrared fryer is a quick and efficient way to cook your bird. The most popular infrared fryer on the market is The Big Easy oil-less turkey fryer, made by Char-Broil. This model uses infrared cooking technology, powered by propane, to create an even heat with no flare-ups.

Before you cook your turkey, you will need to assemble the fryer. This process can be frustrating as the instructions included in the manual are small drawings with no accompanying text. It takes two people to build this correctly, and you must be extremely precise when attaching the propane tank. Once assembled, you must season the fryer by rubbing down the shiny metal inside with vegetable oil using a paper towel, then turning up the heat until it turns dark inside and stops smoking.

When you are ready to cook your turkey, you will need to inject it with a simple injection sauce. Then, mix a few tablespoons of Todd's Original Dirt with a little olive oil and rub it onto the bird. Place the turkey in a basket and put the basket inside the inner chamber of the fryer. The infrared fryer guidelines recommend cooking the turkey for about 10 minutes per pound. For example, a 7-pound turkey breast will take about 75 minutes to reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

While the turkey is cooking, you can use the time to make sides, as the infrared fryer frees up your oven space. Keep in mind that the infrared fryer is not ideal for cooking for a large family, as it can only hold a turkey of up to 16 pounds. Additionally, cooking a stuffed turkey in the infrared fryer is not recommended, as it takes too long to heat the middle to the safe temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cooking time

The Char-Broil Big Easy is the most popular oil-less turkey fryer on the market. It uses infrared cooking technology powered by propane to create an even heat with no flare-ups. It can cook a turkey of up to 16 pounds, although some users have managed to cook larger turkeys of up to 21 pounds. The general rule for cooking time is 10 minutes per pound, which means a 16-pound turkey should take around two hours to cook. However, it's important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the size and model of the fryer, as well as the desired level of doneness.

When using an infrared fryer, it is recommended to preheat the fryer for a minute before adding the turkey. The turkey should be placed breast-side up in the basket, with the wing tips and drumsticks tucked in. The cooking time will depend on the size of the turkey, but it is generally recommended to cook it for about 10 minutes per pound. For a 16-pound turkey, this would be around two hours. It is important to monitor the temperature of the turkey to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. An internal meat thermometer can be used to check the doneness of the turkey before serving.

Some users have reported that their turkeys were cooked on the outside but still raw on the inside, even after several hours of cooking. This could be due to incorrect usage or a defective unit. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for assembling and using the infrared fryer to ensure optimal cooking results. It is also recommended to check the temperature in several spots to ensure even cooking.

The Char-Broil Big Easy infrared fryer can be used to cook other meats such as ham, chicken wings, roast beef, and prime rib. It is a versatile appliance that can be used for more than just Thanksgiving dinner. However, it may not be suitable for large families or those who prefer a smoky flavor, as it can only accommodate smaller turkeys and does not impart a smoky taste.

In conclusion, the cooking time for a turkey in an infrared fryer will depend on the size and weight of the turkey, but the general rule of thumb is about 10 minutes per pound. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and monitor the temperature to ensure the turkey is cooked evenly and safely. The Char-Broil Big Easy infrared fryer is a popular and versatile option for those looking for an oil-less and relatively low-effort way to cook a whole bird.

Temperature

When cooking a turkey in an infrared fryer, temperature is a critical factor to consider. Unlike traditional deep frying, which cooks turkeys at 3 minutes per pound, infrared frying typically requires 10 minutes per pound. This longer cooking time ensures that the infrared heat penetrates the meat thoroughly, resulting in a juicy and evenly cooked turkey.

To achieve the best results, it is recommended to use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the turkey. The desired internal temperature for a safely cooked turkey is 165°F (74°C). However, some sources suggest that temperatures between 165°F and 170°F (74°C and 77°C) are ideal for ensuring the meat is cooked through without drying out.

It is worth noting that the cooking time and temperature can vary depending on the size of the turkey and the specific model of the infrared fryer. For example, smaller turkeys may require slightly less cooking time, while larger turkeys may need more time to reach the desired internal temperature. Additionally, factors such as outdoor temperature and elevation can also impact cooking time and temperature adjustments.

When using an infrared fryer, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines. Some fryers may have specific recommendations for temperature settings or cooking times. By carefully monitoring the temperature and following the appropriate guidelines, you can ensure that your turkey is cooked safely and to your desired level of doneness.

Infrared fryers use infrared heat to cook turkeys, resulting in juicy meat and crispy skin without the need for large amounts of oil. This cooking method is generally safer and easier to manage and clean compared to traditional deep frying. By paying close attention to temperature control and making any necessary adjustments, you can achieve delicious and evenly cooked results with your infrared fryer.

Clean-up

The Char-Broil Big Easy TRU-Infrared Oil-less Turkey Fryer is a popular choice for cooking a turkey, and it has the added benefit of being easy to clean. Unlike traditional deep fryers, there is no vat of oil to dispose of after cooking, which means less mess and a quicker clean-up. The infrared fryer also produces drippings that can be used to make gravy, and the detachable drip tray catches these drippings, making it easier to clean up.

To clean the infrared fryer, it is recommended to scrub the wire basket while it is still hot. The inner cooking pot must also be cleaned, but it is large and awkward to handle. It is not advisable to put the basket in the dishwasher. Instead, users can burn off any food mess by keeping the fryer on for 10 minutes after cooking.

Some users have reported that the Char-Broil Big Easy TRU-Infrared Oil-less Turkey Fryer can be tricky to assemble, which may impact the ease of cleaning. The instructions included with the product are small drawings with no accompanying text, making them difficult to follow. It is important to be precise when attaching the propane tank to avoid any issues during cooking and clean-up.

Overall, the Char-Broil Big Easy TRU-Infrared Oil-less Turkey Fryer offers a convenient and relatively easy clean-up experience compared to traditional deep fryers. The lack of oil and the presence of a detachable drip tray contribute to a less messy and time-consuming post-cooking routine. However, the initial assembly process and the size of the inner cooking pot may pose some challenges for users.

Frequently asked questions