Marianne Martinez
The Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer is a popular choice for cooking a whole turkey. It uses infrared cooking technology, powered by propane, to create an even heat with no flare-ups. This method of cooking a turkey is much quicker and safer than traditional oil-filled turkey fryers, which can be dangerous and intimidating. The cooking time for a turkey in an oiless fryer is around 10 minutes per pound. For example, a 14-pound turkey will take around 2.3–3 hours to cook. There are several tips to keep in mind when using this type of fryer, such as ensuring the turkey is fully thawed, placing aromatics in the cavity, and using a food-safe aluminium liner to catch the drippings.
Characteristics and Values Table for Cooking Turkey in an Oilless Fryer
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Oilless Fryer | Halogen/Infrared Air Fryer |
| Turkey Weight | Up to 16 pounds |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes per pound |
| Temperature | 350°F |
| Preheat Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Preheat Temperature | Until oil hits its smoke point |
| Propane Usage | 1/2 to 1 full tank |
| Location | Outdoors |
| Weather Conditions | Avoid wind and rain |
| Accessories | Mesh Lid, Cover, 22-piece Accessory Kit |
| Seasoning | Peanut Oil, Vegetable Oil, Herbs |
| Add-Ons | Himalayan Salt Egg |
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What You'll Learn
The Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Fryer
One of the standout features of the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Fryer is its patented TRU-Infrared™ technology. This innovative feature ensures even heat distribution, resulting in a perfectly cooked turkey with a crispy exterior and a juicy, tender interior. And the best part? No oil is required! This means you can skip the tedious task of heating oil and dealing with its disposal, making the cooking process safer, faster, and less messy.
Using the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Fryer is incredibly simple. First, prepare your turkey by rinsing it thoroughly and patting it dry. You can then apply a dry rub or a light coating of oil, along with your favourite seasonings—just be sure to avoid sugar-based seasonings as they may burn at high temperatures. Next, place the turkey in the roaster basket, legs down, and lower it into the cooking chamber. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast for easy temperature monitoring.
The cooking time for your turkey will depend on its size and the outdoor weather conditions. As a rule of thumb, you can expect to cook your turkey for approximately 10 to 15 minutes per pound. For a 16-pound turkey, this would translate to around 2 hours of cooking time. Keep in mind that the internal temperature of your turkey should reach 165°F to ensure it's fully cooked. To achieve that desirable crispy skin, cover the fryer with the wire mesh lid during the final 15 minutes of cooking.
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Cooking times and temperatures
The Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer by Char-Broil is a popular choice for cooking oil-less turkey. It uses infrared cooking technology, powered by propane, to create an even heat with no flare-ups. It is also said to be safer and healthier than traditional oil fryers, with less mess to clean up afterward.
When cooking a turkey in an oil-less fryer, it is important to ensure that the turkey is fully thawed. The cooking time will depend on the size of the turkey, with a general rule of thumb being about 10 minutes per pound. For example, a 14-pound turkey will take about 2.3 hours to 3 hours to cook. A 7-pound turkey breast will take about 70 minutes to reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The ambient temperature will also affect the cooking time, with colder temperatures requiring longer cooking times. For example, a 13-pound turkey will take about 90 minutes to cook in a warmer climate, but it will take an additional 20 minutes in a colder, windier location.
It is recommended to preheat the oil-less fryer for a minute before placing the turkey inside. The burner will be cold at the start, and it takes a couple of minutes for the flame to travel around the entire burner. Adding the turkey too soon can increase the heating time. The turkey should be placed breast up and legs down for more even cooking, and it may be helpful to raise it an inch or so off the bottom of the wire basket.
During the cooking process, it is important to use the wire mesh lid when cooking in colder temperatures or on windy days. The lid reflects infrared heat back into the cooking chamber, browning the skin of the turkey. However, if used for the entire cooking time, it can burn the outer layer of the food. It is typically recommended to use the lid only during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
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Preparing the turkey
Firstly, ensure your turkey is fully thawed. It is recommended to start the thawing process at least two days before your planned meal. There are three safe ways to do this: in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave. A frozen turkey will not cook properly, so this step is essential.
Once the turkey is thawed, remove any giblets and neck bones from the cavity. These are often tucked under the skin by the neck. It is not recommended to stuff the turkey cavity with a traditional stuffing, as this can block airflow and prevent even cooking. The inner meat will remain undercooked, while the outer meat will become dry. Instead, consider adding small aromatics like herbs, onion, garlic, lemon or orange slices, and sprigs of fresh rosemary. These additions will enhance the flavour without affecting cooking time.
Pat the turkey dry, inside and out. Then, brush the skin with a small amount of cooking oil. This will help achieve a crispy texture. Season the turkey with a salt-less or low-salt herb or dry rub poultry seasoning. Remember to go easy on the salt, as the injection may already contain a significant amount. A recommended seasoning mix includes paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and black pepper.
To prevent the turkey from sticking to the basket, rub the basket wires with cooking oil. You can also spray the basket with a non-stick cooking spray. Place the turkey in the basket, ensuring the wing tips and drumsticks are tucked in. For more even cooking, position the turkey breast-up and legs down, and consider raising it an inch or so off the bottom of the basket.
Finally, preheat your oil-less fryer for about a minute. If using the Char-Broil Big Easy Fryer, wait for the flame to travel around the entire burner before placing the turkey inside. Adding the turkey too soon can increase the preheat time.
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Using propane
To use the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer, you will need to ensure you have plenty of propane. The amount of propane used can vary, but it is reported to be relatively low, with some users refilling their propane supply specifically for Thanksgiving. The cooking process takes about 10 minutes per pound, so a large 18-pound turkey will take approximately 3 hours to cook. It is recommended to keep an eye on the temperature, as some users have reported that their turkeys were undercooked after following suggested cooking times.
Before cooking, it is important to prepare the turkey. Some users recommend wet brining the turkey overnight, while others suggest injecting the turkey to get flavour into the meat. You can also rub the basket wires with cooking oil to prevent the turkey from sticking. Place the turkey into the basket, ensuring the wing tips and drumsticks are tucked in, and preheat the fryer for a minute.
The oiless fryer method is a great option for those who want to free up oven space during big feasts and dinners. It is also a safer alternative to using vats of scalding oil, which can be dangerous. The fryer produces an impossibly juicy, never-overcooked turkey with crisp-crackling skin, without the need for gallons of expensive oil.
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Clean-up
However, it's important to note that the clean-up process for an oil-less fryer can still be time-consuming and may require some effort. The inner cooking pot is large and awkward to handle, and it is recommended to clean it outdoors to avoid any mess inside your home.
Additionally, it's worth mentioning that the type of oil-less fryer you use may impact the clean-up process. For example, the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Fryer has been specifically mentioned by users as being easy to clean. On the other hand, some users have expressed dissatisfaction with the clean-up process for certain oil-less fryers, stating that it "sucks".
To facilitate the clean-up process, it is advisable to follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific oil-less fryer model. Some models may have specific care and maintenance guidelines that will help you keep your fryer in optimal condition while minimizing the hassle of cleaning.
Overall, while cooking a turkey in an oil-less fryer is touted for its ease of clean-up compared to deep-frying, it still requires some attention to ensure a thorough and proper cleaning of the appliance.
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Frequently asked questions
Cooking time depends on the size of the turkey. A 14-pound turkey takes about 2.3-3 hours to cook. A 13-pound turkey takes about 90 minutes to cook in Las Vegas or Florida. In colder areas, it can take up to 20 minutes longer. A general rule of thumb is about 10-15 minutes per pound.
Oilless fryers are safer, healthier, and easier to clean than traditional oil fryers. They also free up oven space and can be used outdoors.
Make sure the turkey is fully thawed. Remove giblets and neck bones from the turkey cavity. Pat the turkey dry, inside and out. Brush the skin with cooking oil and season with a salt-less or low-salt herb rub.
The Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer by Char-Broil is a popular option that has received positive reviews. It can cook a bird of up to 16 pounds.
Make sure to use the fryer outdoors, in a spot that is shielded from wind and drafts. The outside temperature will affect the cooking time, so be sure to have enough propane to last the duration of the cooking process. Use the wire mesh lid during the last 15 minutes of cooking to brown the skin.
