Perfectly Cooked Turkey: Oilless Fryer Timing

Cooking a turkey in an oilless fryer is a great way to achieve a crispy, fried texture without the mess and danger of using hot oil. The Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer is a popular choice for those looking to free up oven space and avoid the hassle of deep-frying. This propane-powered fryer uses infrared technology and hot circulating air to cook the turkey, resulting in juicy meat and a crispy exterior. While cook time can vary based on weather conditions and the size of the turkey, a good rule of thumb is about 15 minutes per pound, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Cooking a Turkey in an Oilless Fryer

Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer

The Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer is a propane-powered, infrared fryer that can be used to cook a turkey without oil. It is an outdoor vertical roaster that uses circulating hot air to cook the turkey from all sides, resulting in juicy meat and crispy skin. The cooker can accommodate a turkey of up to 16 pounds and has a cooking time of about 10 minutes per pound or 2 hours for a 16-pound turkey.

To use the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer, first coat the wire frame of the cooking basket with oil to prevent the turkey from sticking. Then, place the turkey in the basket, breast side up, ensuring that the wing tips and drumsticks are tucked in. Preheat the fryer for a minute, and then lower the basket into the cooking chamber. The internal temperature of the turkey should reach 165°F, which will take about 2 1/2 hours, depending on weather conditions and the size of the turkey.

During the last 15 minutes of cooking, cover the fryer with the wire mesh lid to crisp the skin. After cooking, remove the basket from the cooker and let the turkey rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving and serving. The Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer is a convenient option for those who want to free up oven space during the holidays and don't want to deal with the hassle and waste of deep-frying a turkey.

It's important to note that the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer should only be used outdoors, and it is recommended to have a full tank of propane ready to avoid running out during cooking. Additionally, the manufacturer suggests cooking the stuffing separately, not inside the turkey. The cooker can also be used for other meats like whole chickens and wings, making it a versatile option for various dishes.

Infrared light and convection technology

Oil-less fryers use infrared light and convection technology to cook food. This technology involves circulating hot air inside a hollow-walled chamber, with the heat source being a halogen infrared light. This hot air cooks the turkey evenly, ensuring the meat is juicy and the skin is crispy. The Char-Broil Big Easy propane oil-less fryer, for example, uses a propane tank as its power source and cooks the turkey outside, freeing up oven space.

In addition to cooking a delicious turkey, oil-less fryers offer several benefits. Firstly, they are energy-efficient, using less power than a traditional oven. This means you can free up oven space for other dishes, which is especially useful during big feasts like Thanksgiving. Oil-less fryers are also safer than traditional deep fryers as they eliminate the risk of dealing with dangerous vats of scalding oil.

Another benefit of oil-less fryers is their ability to cook large portions of food, making them ideal for feeding a crowd. They are also easy to clean, with a drip pan that collects all the turkey juices, which can then be used to make gravy. When using an oil-less fryer, it is important to ensure that the turkey is fully thawed before cooking and that any herbs or seasonings are added towards the end of the cooking process to prevent burning.

Oil-less fryer pros and cons

Oil-less fryers, also known as air fryers, are a popular alternative to deep fryers. They use convection technology to circulate hot air, cooking food with minimal to no oil. This method of cooking has gained popularity due to its potential health benefits and convenience.

Pros

One of the main advantages of oil-less fryers is the ability to cook food with little to no oil. This results in healthier meals with lower calories and less fat. Oil-less fryers are also praised for their convenience, as they require minimal equipment and counter space. They are easy to use and can cook a variety of foods, from meats to vegetables and even baked goods. Additionally, they can free up oven space during large meals or when oven capacity is limited. Oil-less fryers are generally considered safer than deep fryers as they eliminate the risk associated with hot oil, making them ideal for cooking large dishes for groups.

Cons

One of the drawbacks of oil-less fryers is the potential loss of the super crunchy texture that some people prefer in fried foods. While oil-less fryers can produce crispy results, they may not achieve the same level of crunch as deep-fried foods. Additionally, oil-less fryers may not be suitable for all types of food, and cooking large dishes may require multiple sessions. There are also concerns about the accuracy of the term "fryer," as these appliances function more like a roaster or broiler, which may be misleading to consumers.

Oil-less fryers offer a convenient and potentially healthier alternative to deep frying, making them a popular choice for those seeking to reduce their oil consumption and create crispy, juicy meals. However, they may not deliver the same level of crunch as traditional deep-fried foods, and their suitability varies depending on the type of food being cooked.

How to prepare the turkey

To prepare the turkey for cooking in an oilless fryer, start by completely washing the turkey, inside and out. Remove the giblets, neck bone, and any other contents from the turkey's cavity. You can choose to discard these or use them for gravy or stuffing.

Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Some recipes suggest injecting the turkey with a store-bought injection, such as Creole butter, to add flavor and moisture to the meat. You can also rub the outside of the turkey with olive oil and your choice of seasonings, such as Creole seasoning.

Place the turkey in the basket of the oilless fryer, ensuring that the wing tips and drumsticks are tucked in neatly. You may also want to insert a meat thermometer into the breast of the turkey, being careful not to let the tip touch the bone. Preheat the oilless fryer for a minute before placing the basket inside.

It is important to note that oilless fryers are designed for outdoor use only and are powered by a propane tank. Ensure you have enough propane to cook the turkey fully.

Tips for achieving crispy skin

To achieve crispy skin on your turkey when using an oilless fryer, try the following tips:

Firstly, ensure your turkey is fully and properly thawed. A frozen turkey will not cook properly and may result in raw meat. It is recommended to cook a 14-pound turkey for about 2.3 to 3 hours.

Before cooking, oil the basket to prevent the turkey from sticking. Place the turkey legs-side down in the basket, and insert a meat thermometer into the breast, ensuring the tip doesn't touch the bone. For extra crispy skin, spray the turkey with oil occasionally during cooking.

Cover the fryer with a wire mesh lid during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This will reflect heat back towards the turkey, resulting in crispier skin. However, avoid using the lid for the entire cooking time, as this may burn the food.

Finally, ensure you have enough propane if using a propane-powered fryer. At least half a large tank is recommended to avoid running out of gas during cooking.

Frequently asked questions