The Best Way To Fry A Turkey: A Guide

Cooking a turkey without oil sounds impossible, but it's not! The Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer is an infrared fryer that connects to a propane tank and cooks the turkey with hot circulating air. It's said to produce a juicy bird with a crispy skin that is impossible to achieve in the oven.

The Big Easy fryer can cook a bird of up to 16 pounds and is much faster than a traditional oven. It takes about 10 minutes per pound to cook a turkey in the Big Easy, compared to 13 minutes per pound in an oven. For example, a 14-pound turkey will take about 2 hours and 20 minutes to cook.

There are a few things to keep in mind when using the Big Easy fryer. Firstly, it is for outdoor use only and the weather can affect the cooking time. Secondly, the manufacturer recommends cooking the stuffing separately. Finally, the basket and cooking pot can be challenging to clean, so it's best to scrub them immediately while they are still hot.

How to prepare your turkey for an oiless fryer

Preparing a turkey in an oiless fryer is a great way to achieve a crispy, juicy bird without the mess and potential hazards of deep frying. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to prepare your turkey for an oiless fryer:

Thawing and Brining:

Start by completely thawing your turkey. Place the frozen turkey in the fridge for a couple of days to ensure it's fully defrosted. You can also follow safe methods to thaw a frozen turkey, such as using cold water or a microwave. Brining the turkey is optional but can add flavour and moisture. If you choose to brine, prepare a solution of salt, water, and any desired seasonings. Submerge the turkey in the brine and let it sit for several hours or overnight.

Preparation:

Remove any giblets or neck bones from the turkey's cavity. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels, ensuring the skin is dry for that extra crispy texture. You can inject the turkey with a marinade of your choice to add moisture and flavour. Rub the turkey with oil and season it generously with your favourite spices, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. Some popular seasoning options include Cajun, jerk, garlic herb, or BBQ.

Preheat the Fryer:

Preheat your oiless fryer according to the manufacturer's instructions. Most models require preheating to around 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for even cooking and achieving the desired crispy texture.

Place the Turkey in the Fryer:

Once the fryer is preheated, it's time to add the turkey. Place the turkey in the fryer basket, breast-side up. Ensure the fryer is not overcrowded to allow for even cooking. Carefully insert the basket with the turkey into the oiless fryer. Adjust the cooking time based on the weight of your turkey. A good rule of thumb is to cook the turkey for about 10-12 minutes per pound.

Monitor the Temperature:

During cooking, it's essential to monitor the turkey's internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe minimum temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. You can also check the breast temperature, which should reach 165°F-180°F.

Resting:

Once the turkey reaches the desired temperature, carefully remove the basket from the fryer and let the bird rest. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy meat. Cover the turkey with foil and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving.

Carving and Serving:

After the resting period, it's time to carve your beautifully cooked turkey. Serve it alongside your favourite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, or stuffing. Enjoy your delicious and safely prepared oiless fried turkey!

The pros and cons of the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer

The Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer is a revolutionary oil-less infrared turkey fryer that makes cooking juicy, delicious birds easier than ever. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide if it's the right choice for you:

Pros:

• Safety and Ease of Use: By using radiant heat instead of hot oil, you can enjoy crispy, golden fried turkey without the hassle or danger of traditional deep frying. The fryer is quiet, contained, and safe to use, even in small outdoor areas.
• Time Efficiency: The Big Easy cooks a turkey much faster than a traditional oven, taking about 10-15 minutes per pound. This means you can have a delicious, juicy bird ready in as little as 2-3 hours, depending on the size of your turkey.
• Versatility: In addition to turkeys, the Big Easy can be used to cook other meats such as ham, chicken wings, roast beef, and prime rib. This makes it a versatile appliance that you can use throughout the year, not just on Thanksgiving.
• Clean-up: Clean-up is a breeze with the Big Easy. There is no messy oil to deal with, and the drip tray and glass bowl are easy to wipe down.
• Energy Efficiency: The Big Easy uses less power than a traditional oven, making it an energy-efficient option for cooking your holiday feast.
• Freeing up Oven Space: If you're cooking for a large gathering, the Big Easy can be a lifesaver by freeing up your oven space. You can cook your turkey outdoors while using your oven for sides and desserts.
• Crispy Skin: The Big Easy delivers on its promise of crispy, golden skin. The intense heat of the infrared cooker gives your turkey a delicious, crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender.
• Large Capacity: The Big Easy can accommodate turkeys up to 25 lbs, making it ideal for larger gatherings. For even bigger birds, you can opt for the Big Easy XL, which can handle turkeys up to 30 lbs.
• Portability: The Big Easy is easy to assemble, disassemble, and store. It packs away easily in its box, so you can keep it in your garage or storage room when not in use.

Cons:

• Outdoor Use Only: The Big Easy is powered by a propane tank, which means it must be used outdoors. This can be a limitation, especially in cold or inclement weather.
• No Stuffing in the Turkey: The manufacturer recommends cooking the stuffing separately, as cooking a stuffed turkey in the Big Easy can lead to uneven cooking and unsafe internal temperatures.
• Moisture Content: While the Big Easy produces juicy meat, some users have reported that it doesn't quite match the moisture level of a true deep-fried turkey. The skin may also not be as crispy as a traditional fried turkey.
• Assembly: Assembling the Big Easy can be frustrating due to the unclear instructions provided. It requires precision and is a two-person job, especially when attaching the propane tank.
• Size Limitations: The standard Big Easy can only accommodate turkeys up to 16 lbs. For larger birds, you'll need to opt for the Big Easy XL.
• Heat Hazards: All parts of the fryer get extremely hot during use. Be sure to have heat-safe gloves on hand to handle the fryer and attachments safely.

How to calculate cooking time

When it comes to cooking a turkey in an oiless fryer, there are several factors that can impact the cooking time. Here are some guidelines and tips to help you calculate the cooking time:

Turkey Size:

Firstly, the size of the turkey matters. A smaller turkey will cook faster than a larger one. For instance, a 10-pound turkey will take less time to cook than a 20-pound bird. The Char-Broil Big Easy fryer, a popular oiless fryer model, can accommodate turkeys up to 16 pounds.

Cooking Temperature:

The cooking temperature also affects the cooking time. Higher temperatures, such as 350°F, will cook the turkey faster than lower temperatures like 275°F. It's recommended to cook at temperatures between 325°F and 350°F for the best results.

Frozen vs. Thawed:

It's important to note that a frozen turkey will take significantly longer to cook than a thawed one. Always ensure that your turkey is fully thawed before cooking. This is crucial for food safety and even cooking.

Stuffing:

If you're planning to stuff your turkey, keep in mind that it will take longer to cook. Stuffing is denser than meat, and it needs more time to reach the recommended safe temperature of 165°F. However, it's generally recommended to cook the stuffing separately for food safety reasons.

Average Cooking Times:

As a general guideline, here are the average cooking times for whole turkeys in an oiless fryer like the Char-Broil Big Easy:

• 10-12 lb turkey – 1.5 to 2 hours
• 12-14 lb turkey – 2 to 2.5 hours
• 14-16 lb turkey – 2.5 to 3 hours
• 16-18 lb turkey – 3 to 3.5 hours
• 18-20 lb turkey – 3.5 to 4 hours
• 20-24 lb turkey – 4 to 4.5 hours

Calculating Cooking Time:

To calculate the cooking time, use the formula of "minutes per pound." For an unstuffed or lightly stuffed turkey, cook for 10-12 minutes per pound. For a heavily stuffed turkey, cook for 12-15 minutes per pound. For example, a 15-pound unstuffed turkey will take about 2.5 to 3 hours to cook.

Weather Conditions:

Keep in mind that weather conditions can also impact cooking time. If you're cooking outdoors and it's particularly cold, calculate a slightly longer cooking time. For instance, if it's cold and windy, add about 11 minutes per pound instead of the standard 10 minutes per pound.

Using a Meat Thermometer:

To ensure your turkey is cooked to perfection, always use a meat thermometer. Cook the turkey until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F at the thickest part of the breast and thigh. During the last 30-60 minutes of cooking, closely monitor the temperature to avoid overcooking.

Resting Time:

After removing the turkey from the fryer, let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a juicier, more tender bird.

How to make gravy using your oiless fryer

How to Make Gravy Using Your Oilless Fryer

The compact tray beneath the heating element of your oilless fryer collects all the turkey drippings, which you can then use to make gravy. Here's how:

• Prepare the drippings: Once your turkey is cooked, carefully remove the basket from the fryer and let the meat rest for 15-20 minutes. Then, remove the turkey from the basket and pour the drippings from the tray into a saucepan.
• Make a roux: In an open skillet, heat the grease and flour. Cook the mixture over low heat for 5-10 minutes, or until the colour changes slightly brown.
• Prepare the broth: In a small bowl, combine the leftover flour and broth or water. Mix until smooth.
• Combine the ingredients: Slowly add the broth mixture to the roux in the pan, stirring vigorously with a whisk until smooth.
• Cook the gravy: Bring the gravy to a boil, stirring frequently. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the mixture thickens. Add more water or broth to achieve your desired consistency.
• Season to taste: Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.

Your gravy is now ready to serve!

How to clean your oiless fryer

Step 1: Let Your Fryer Cool Down

Before you start cleaning your oiless fryer, it's important to unplug the appliance and let it cool down completely. Depending on the model, this could take several hours. It's important to never clean a fryer while it's still plugged in or contains hot oil, as this could lead to electrical shorts, burns, or even explosions.

Step 2: Remove the Frying Basket

Once your fryer is cool, take out the frying basket and place it in the sink. You can then wash it with some dish soap and hot water. If there are small bits of food stuck to the basket, a cleaning brush or even a toothbrush can help loosen them.

Step 3: Drain the Oil

Before you start deep cleaning, it's crucial to remove the oil from the fryer. You can carefully lift the oil reservoir and pour the oil into a plastic bowl or container. If the oil is relatively clean and doesn't have a strong smell, you can strain it and reuse it later. However, if the oil is cloudy, very dark, or has foam on top, it's best to dispose of it safely. Remember, never pour oil down the sink, as it can cause plumbing issues.

Step 4: Scrape Away Build-Up

Now, it's time to work on the inside of the fryer. Using an abrasive sponge or a straight plastic edge, scrape away any build-up on the sides and bottom of the fryer. Make sure to get into the corners as well. This step will help remove any stubborn residue.

Step 5: Boil Soapy Water in the Fryer

Add a squirt of liquid dish soap to the inside of the fryer, then fill it up with hot water. Be careful not to submerge the fryer in water or expose its electrical parts to water, as this could damage the appliance. Once the fryer is filled, plug it in and turn it on. Bring the soapy water to a boil, letting it cook for 5-10 minutes. This process, known as "boiling out," helps break down grease. After boiling, turn off the fryer, unplug it, and let it cool down.

Step 6: Wipe Down the Interior and Exterior

Once the fryer and water have cooled, dump out the soapy water and rinse the inside of the fryer to remove any soap residue. Then, use a microfiber cloth or an old rag to wipe down the inside of the fryer, removing any remaining oil and grease. If needed, dip the cloth in a mixture of liquid dish soap and hot water to help with stubborn spots. Repeat this process for the exterior of the fryer, including the cord, as oil spatter may have reached those areas as well.

Step 7: Tackle Remaining Grease with Baking Soda (Optional)

If there are still areas with stubborn grease or stuck-on residue, it's time to bring out the baking soda. Create a paste by mixing a spoonful of baking soda with hot water. Apply this paste to the greasy areas, using a soft cleaning brush if the reservoir has a nonstick coating. If your fryer has a metal reservoir, you can use a steel wool sponge for extra scouring power.

Step 8: Let the Fryer Dry

After your fryer is clean, wipe it down with a clean, dry cloth, and let the rest of it air dry. It's important to ensure the fryer is completely dry before using it again. Once dry, you can refill the fryer with oil and get ready for your next frying session!

Maintenance Tips:

• You don't need to clean your oiless fryer after each use. The oil can be reused for multiple frying sessions.
• Clean your fryer regularly, depending on how often you use it. For frequent users (at least once a week), a deep clean every three months is recommended.
• Always be careful to avoid getting water on the electrical components of the fryer.
• Never submerge the fryer in the sink or put it in the dishwasher.

Frequently asked questions