Building A Turkey Fryer Burner: A Diy Guide

Deep-fried turkey is a delicious and quick alternative to the traditional Thanksgiving roast. Frying a turkey is not without its risks, however, and it is important to take safety precautions when preparing your bird. A turkey fryer kit is a great option for those looking to take the plunge, as it comes with everything you need to get started, including a burner, pot, thermometer, basket, and hook. For those looking to build their own setup, a propane burner designed for large pots is a must, and a propane tank will also be needed. When it comes to choosing a pot, a capacity of around 30 quarts is ideal for frying a turkey, and be sure to pick up some refined peanut oil, which has a high smoke point.

Propane vs. Electric

When it comes to choosing a turkey fryer, there are two main fuel sources to consider: propane and electric. Here's a detailed comparison between the two to help you decide which one is right for your needs:

Propane Turkey Fryers

Propane turkey fryers are typically used for outdoor cooking and involve heating oil in a large stockpot over a propane burner. They are ideal for those who want to achieve that authentic, crispy, and juicy fried turkey taste.

Pros of Propane Turkey Fryers:

• Faster heating: Propane burners can heat a large amount of oil quickly and return it to temperature rapidly, making it more efficient than electric fryers.
• Outdoor cooking: Propane fryers are perfect for outdoor use, freeing up your oven and kitchen space. They are a great option for entertaining guests and keeping them occupied outdoors.
• Authentic taste: Propane fryers deliver that classic fried turkey taste with crispy skin and moist meat.

Cons of Propane Turkey Fryers:

• Safety concerns: Propane involves an open flame, so safety is a top priority. It's important to set up the fryer on a level, non-flammable surface, away from walls and other flammable objects.
• More maintenance: Propane fryers require monitoring of the flame and temperature to prevent overheating or oil spillage.
• Not portable: Propane fryers are not ideal for portable use as they require a decent-sized propane tank.

Electric Turkey Fryers

Electric turkey fryers, on the other hand, are a safer and more convenient option for indoor use. They are essentially large-capacity countertop deep fryers designed specifically for frying turkeys.

Pros of Electric Turkey Fryers:

• Safety: Electric fryers eliminate the risks associated with an open flame and hot oil. They often feature auto-shutoff functions and thermostat controls to maintain a steady temperature.
• Indoor use: Electric fryers can be used indoors, making them a great choice for those without outdoor space.
• Convenience: Electric fryers are easier to use and maintain, with no need for a propane tank.

Cons of Electric Turkey Fryers:

• Slower heating: Electric fryers may take longer to heat up and recover temperature compared to propane fryers.
• Limited capacity: Most electric fryers have smaller capacities and may not accommodate turkeys larger than 20 pounds.
• Less authentic taste: While still producing delicious results, electric fryers may not deliver the same level of crispiness and moisture as propane fryers.

In conclusion, both propane and electric turkey fryers have their advantages and disadvantages. Propane fryers excel in outdoor cooking, delivering an authentic fried turkey taste with faster heating capabilities. However, they require more maintenance and safety precautions. On the other hand, electric fryers offer convenience, safety, and the ability to fry a turkey indoors, although they may fall short in terms of capacity and heating performance. Ultimately, the decision between propane and electric depends on your specific needs, preferences, and cooking environment.

Safety tips

Frying a turkey is a great way to get delicious, tender, and crispy results, but it can be dangerous if you don't take the proper precautions. Here are some safety tips to follow when making a turkey fryer burner:

• Always fry your turkey outdoors and away from anything flammable. This includes wooden structures like decks, your garage, kitchen, or anything else that could catch fire if exposed to overflowing flaming oil. A concrete or dirt surface is ideal.
• Keep the propane tank as far away from the fryer as possible without causing tension on the hose or tipping over the tank.
• Make sure your turkey is completely thawed and dry before placing it in the fryer. A frozen turkey can explode, and a wet turkey will cause the oil to bubble over and potentially overflow.
• Do not overfill the fryer with oil. Use the water displacement method to determine the correct amount of oil needed. This will help prevent oil fires.
• Always keep an eye on the fryer once the flame is on. Do not leave it unattended. If the oil starts smoking, turn down the heat to maintain a steady temperature of around 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Lower the turkey slowly into the fryer to avoid oil overflow. You can turn off the burner during this process to reduce the risk of oil catching fire.
• Wear protective clothing, including long sleeves, pants, closed-toe shoes, and oven mitts, to protect your skin from hot oil. Also, consider eye protection to shield yourself from potential oil splashes.
• Keep children and pets at a safe distance from the fryer at all times.
• Have a grease-rated fire extinguisher nearby in case of a fire. Do not use water to extinguish an oil fire. If a fire occurs, turn off the flame, cover the pot if possible, and call the fire department if necessary.
• Allow the pot to cool completely before moving or disposing of the oil.

Burner placement

Choose an Outdoor, Open Space: Turkey frying should always be done outdoors, away from any structures that could potentially catch fire. Select a level surface made of concrete, dirt, or gravel, ensuring there are no overhanging branches or flammable objects nearby.

Distance from the Propane Tank: Place the burner at a safe distance from the propane tank. While having a long hose is convenient for flexibility, be mindful that a longer hose may affect the pressure and performance of the burner.

Ventilation: Ensure the area has good ventilation to prevent the buildup of heat and fumes. Avoid placing the burner in an enclosed space, as it may cause incomplete combustion and produce hazardous carbon monoxide.

Proximity to Other Heat Sources: Keep the burner away from other heat sources, such as grills or open flames. This will help prevent accidental fires and ensure the burner functions optimally without interference from other heat sources.

Burner Stability: Choose a flat, stable surface for the burner to rest on. Avoid placing it on uneven ground or unstable structures to prevent accidental tipping or instability during cooking.

Direction of Wind: Take note of the wind direction and place the burner in a position where the wind will blow smoke away from you and your guests. This will help avoid smoke inhalation and keep the cooking area more comfortable.

Proximity to Water Sources: Avoid placing the burner directly next to a body of water, such as a pool or pond. In the event of a spill or accident, you don't want hot oil or flames coming into contact with water, as this could cause a hazardous situation.

Local Regulations: Be mindful of any local regulations or fire codes that may dictate specific requirements for burner placement. These regulations are in place for your safety and should always be followed.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your turkey fryer burner is positioned safely and effectively. Always prioritize safety when working with an open flame and hot oil.

Oil type and amount

The type of oil you use for your turkey fryer is important. If food allergies aren't a factor, peanut oil is the best option as it is a neutral-flavoured oil and has a high smoke and flashpoint, making it safer to use. If you or your guests have a peanut allergy, safflower oil is a great substitute as it has the same smoke point.

The amount of oil you need depends on the size of your bird and fryer. As a general rule, buying between four and six gallons is a safe bet. It's better to have some leftover oil than not enough, which can be dangerous. Always make sure to follow basic safety concepts regarding frying oil over an open flame.

Turkey size and prep

Turkey Size:

• Stick to a maximum weight limit of 14 pounds: Deep-frying a turkey larger than this can lead to an overflow of oil, which could cause a dangerous grease fire.
• Standard 30-quart pot: This size is the go-to for most deep fryers and can comfortably accommodate a turkey up to 14 pounds. This ensures enough space for the oil to bubble and spit without causing spills.
• For larger turkeys: If your turkey is over 14 pounds, you can still deep fry it by removing the legs and thighs to fry separately, or by cutting the turkey in half for more even cooking.
• Fully submerge the turkey: Ensure that your deep fryer is large enough for the turkey to be fully submerged in oil. This is essential for even cooking.

Turkey Prep:

• Thaw and dry the turkey: A frozen or wet turkey can be dangerous. Make sure your turkey is completely thawed and dry before frying. This will prevent oil from bubbling over or causing an explosion.
• Remove neck and giblets: Take out any internal parts such as the neck and giblets, which can be saved for gravy. Ensure all plastic pieces are removed, and tuck the neck flap inside to avoid pockets of air or fluid that can react with the oil.
• Brining, rubbing, or injecting marinade: This is a matter of personal preference. Some people brine the turkey in a salt bath, while others rub it with spices or inject marinade. If injecting, be careful to get it into the skin to avoid fluid reacting with the oil.
• Check for ice: Even if your turkey appears thawed, check for ice, especially in the cavity between the ribs. This area can remain extremely cold and cause issues when frying.

Remember, safety is crucial when working with hot oil and an open flame. Always follow instructions and take precautions to avoid accidents.

Frequently asked questions