Frying Turkey Without Oil: Time And Taste Test

Frying a turkey without oil is a game-changer. The Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer is a popular choice for frying turkeys without oil. It is an infrared fryer that uses propane gas to cook the turkey. The fryer is said to be safe, easy to use, and time-saving. The cooking time depends on the weight of the turkey and the weather conditions. On average, it takes about 10 minutes per pound to cook a fully thawed turkey. For example, a 14-pound turkey will take about 2 hours and 20 minutes to cook. It is recommended to check the internal temperature of the turkey to ensure it has reached 165°F before removing it from the fryer.

How to calculate cooking time

To calculate the cooking time for your turkey, you need to know the weight of your bird. The Char-Broil Big Easy fryer estimates that a turkey will take between 9 and 10 minutes per pound to cook. However, this is only a guideline and you should use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your turkey. The turkey is cooked when it reaches a minimum of 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.

If you are cooking in cold weather, you should allow for a little more time—around 11 minutes per pound. You should also consider the time it will take to heat up and connect the fryer, as well as the resting time before serving.

Pros and cons of Char-Broil Big Easy Oil Less Fryer

The Char-Broil Big Easy Oil Less Fryer is a popular choice for those looking to cook a turkey without the hassle and danger of using a vat of hot oil. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide if it's the right choice for you:

Pros:

• Safety: There is no risk of hot oil splattering or catching fire, making it safer, especially if you have children or pets around.
• Ease of Use: It is easy to assemble, use and clean. The fryer heats up quickly, and there is no need to purchase, filter, or store large amounts of oil.
• Tasty Results: The infrared technology ensures even cooking, resulting in a juicy turkey with extra crispy skin. It also has a drip pan to collect juices for making gravy.
• Versatility: You can cook various dishes beyond turkey, including chicken, roasts, fajitas, and vegetables. It can also be used outdoors, freeing up oven space.
• Portability: It is lightweight and portable, making it convenient for camping or RV trips.
• Time Efficiency: It cooks faster than a traditional oven, taking about 10 minutes per pound of turkey.
• Energy Efficiency: It uses less power than a conventional oven.

Cons:

• Size Limitations: The fryer is bulky and can only accommodate turkeys up to 16 pounds. It may not be suitable for large gatherings.
• Outdoor Use Only: It must be used outdoors due to the propane power source, and weather conditions can affect cooking time.
• Single-Use Concern: Some users feel it is a single-use machine, mainly used for Thanksgiving turkey, taking up storage space the rest of the year.
• No Stuffing: The manufacturer recommends cooking the stuffing separately, as cooking a stuffed turkey may lead to uneven cooking.
• Cleaning Challenges: While easy to clean overall, the basket and cooking pot can be challenging to scrub, and it is advised to clean them while still hot.
• Limited Warranty: It only comes with a one-year warranty, which may not be sufficient considering it is typically used only once a year.

How does an oil-less deep fryer work?

Oil-less deep fryers, such as the Char-Broil Big Easy, are powered by propane tanks and use infrared technology to cook food. The fryer has a basket in which the food is placed, and the propane tank produces heat that circulates in the chamber surrounding the food, cooking it evenly.

The oil-less fryer is a healthier alternative to deep frying as it does not require the use of oil, which can add cholesterol and fat to the food. The fryer is also safer than traditional deep frying as there is no risk of hot oil spilling or catching on fire.

The Char-Broil Big Easy is designed for outdoor use only and can be used to cook a variety of foods, including turkey, chicken, roasts, and kebabs. It is easy to clean and has a drip pan to collect juices for making gravy.

The main drawback of the oil-less fryer is that it is bulky and requires outdoor space for use. Additionally, it cannot be used for stuffing a turkey, as the manufacturer suggests cooking the stuffing separately.

Overall, the oil-less deep fryer is a convenient and safe option for cooking large portions of food with crispy skin and juicy meat. It is a worthwhile investment, especially for those who want to free up oven space during big feasts.

Best turkey air fryers

Air fryers are a great alternative to deep-frying a turkey, as they are safer, healthier, and can produce a similarly juicy and crispy-skinned bird. Here are some of the best turkey air fryers on the market:

Char-Broil Big Easy TRU-Infrared Oil-Less Turkey Fryer

This air fryer is a popular choice for frying turkeys. It uses infrared technology and propane gas to cook the turkey without the need for oil. It can handle turkeys up to 16 pounds and includes a cooking basket and lifter for easy maneuvering. The Big Easy is an outdoor fryer that must be used in a well-ventilated area, and the propane tank is sold separately. It generally takes about 10 minutes per pound to cook a turkey in this fryer, and it produces juicy meat with a crispy skin. It is reasonably priced at $99-$159.99.

Masterbuilt 3-in-1 10 Liter XL Electric Fryer

This indoor air fryer is perfect for those who don't want to deal with propane. It can fit a turkey of up to 20 pounds and has a sleek design with a reasonably small footprint. The Masterbuilt fryer functions as a steamer and boiler, in addition to a fryer, and it heats up to 375ºF. It includes a drain valve for easy oil disposal and a lifting hook for safely raising and lowering the cooking basket. It is affordably priced at $127-$129.99.

Bayou Classic 32-Quart Stainless Steel Turkey Fryer

The Bayou Classic is an outdoor stainless steel turkey fryer that can accommodate turkeys of up to 20 pounds. It comes with a versatile perforated insert that can be used for steaming, boiling, and frying. The fryer must be used with a propane cooker, which is sold separately. It includes a grab hook and a 12-inch thermometer to monitor the temperature. This durable and versatile fryer is a good choice for those who want the option to steam or boil in addition to frying.

Masterbuilt 20 Quart 7-in-1 Outdoor Air Fryer

This outdoor air fryer can cook a turkey of up to 20 pounds. It offers seven different functions, including air frying, baking, roasting, and smoking. It comes with a large basket, a poultry stand, and four stacking baskets for frying, dehydrating, roasting, and more. You can manually select the temperature or use the preset temperature. Wood chips can be added while smoking for a unique flavor. The Masterbuilt 20 Quart is easy to use and safe, with a top-loading design.

Concord Cookware Banjo Single Burner Stove

While this option does not include a frying vessel, this heavy-duty burner can burn up to 200,000 BTUs, quickly heating large batches of oil. It is suitable for holding large pots and can accommodate big turkeys when paired with the company's 30-quart or 40-quart cookware, which is sold separately. The legs detach for easy storage, making it a convenient and powerful option.

Cuisinart Extra-Large Rotisserie Fryer

If you're looking for something a little different, this rotisserie deep fryer can cook a 14-pound turkey in about an hour. It also comes with a separate fry basket for all your fried food needs and can be used as a steamer without oil. The dials are easy to use, and it features a thermostat and timer for added convenience and safety. Cleanup is a breeze, too, with a drain valve and dishwasher-safe parts.

CreoleFeast TFS3010 Propane 30 Qt. Turkey and 10 Qt. Fish Fryer Boiler Steamer Set

This propane-powered fryer and steamer set is perfect for outdoor cooking. It includes a 50,000 BTU burner and can handle large pots for frying turkeys. The set comes with a 30-quart turkey fryer pot and a 10-quart fish fryer boiler, providing versatility for all your cooking needs. It is a good choice for those who want a powerful and versatile outdoor cooking setup.

King Kooker Turkey Pot with Lid, Rack and Hook

The King Kooker is an aluminum turkey pot with a built-in spigot for easy cleanup. It heats up quickly and is relatively lightweight, making it convenient to use. The pot has a 30-quart size and comes with a lid, lifting hook, and rack for added safety and ease of use. It is designed for outdoor use and requires a separate propane cooker.

Charbroil The Big Easy 3-in-1 Smoker, Roaster & Gas Grill

This Charbroil air fryer is a versatile option that can be used for smoking, roasting, and gas grilling. It is a good choice for those who want a multi-functional cooker. It is an outdoor fryer that uses propane gas and infrared technology to cook food.

Emeril Lagasse 26 QT Extra Large Air Fryer, Convection Toaster Oven with French Doors

This large air fryer has French doors and a sleek design. It can be used for a variety of cooking needs and is a good choice for those who want a stylish and versatile air fryer.

Other Options

There are also several other options available, including electric and propane turkey fryers, as well as air fryers with larger capacities or additional features. When choosing a turkey air fryer, consider factors such as safety features, indoor vs. outdoor use, power source, size, convenience, and ease of cleaning.

Step-by-step guide to oil-less deep-fried turkey

Preparation

• Ensure your turkey is fully thawed.
• Remove the giblets and neck bones from the turkey cavity.
• Pat the turkey dry.
• Tuck butter slices and garlic in between the skin and the turkey breasts.
• Season the turkey with salt and pepper.
• Oil the basket to prevent sticking.
• Insert a meat thermometer into the breast.

Cooking

• Preheat the Char-Broil Big Easy Fryer.
• Place the turkey (legs side down) in the basket.
• Cook for about 10 minutes per pound.
• Cover with the wire mesh lid during the last 15 minutes for the crispiest skin.
• Occasionally spray the turkey with oil.
• For the final 20 minutes, keep an eye on the temperature to determine when the turkey is done.
• Remove the basket from the cooker and let rest for about 15-20 minutes.
• Remove the turkey from the basket, carve and serve.

Frequently asked questions