Deep frying a turkey may sound like a strange concept, but trust me, it doesn’t come out like you’d think. Deep fried turkey is moist and delicious and not at all greasy.

Of course, an idea like fried turkey originated in the south, the frying capital of the United States, but it is gaining popularity nationwide. In fact, a recent block party I attended in South Central Los Angeles had three fried turkeys going. Several groups of neighbors had gotten together and split the cost of the oil and special equipment needed to make this dish. Needless to say, their tables were some of the most popular.

You Will Need
In addition to a turkey, you’ll need a 40 or 60 quart pot with basket or turkey frying hardware, plus a electric turkey fryer propane gas tank and burner, a candy/deep fry thermometer, a meat thermometer and lots of oil. Use oils that have a high smoke point, such as corn, peanut or canola oils.

You should also keep a fire extinguisher and plenty of heavy duty pot holders nearby. An injector to add electric turkey fryers marinades and seasonings to the meat is also good to have, although you can make a plain turkey without it. As far as the turkey itself goes, smaller birds work better for frying. Try not to go over 15 pounds.

Where to Fry
Because so much oil is flammable, you should never fry a turkey Masterbuilt electric turkey fryer indoors. Place the fryer, outdoors, on a level dirt or grassy area. Avoid frying on wood decks, which could catch fire. You will also want to avoid concrete surfaces, unless you don’t mind oil stains. Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

Before You Fry
Before beginning, (and before you even season or marinate your turkey) determine the amount of oil you’ll need by placing the Masterbuilt Turk N Surf’s electric turkey fryer turkey in the basket (or on the hanger, depending on the type of fryer you are using) and putting it in the pot. Add water until it reaches about two inches above the turkey. Remove the turkey and note the water level by using a ruler to measure the distance from the top of the pot to the surface of the water. Remove the water and thoroughly dry the pot. Now add enough oil to equal what the water level was without electric turkey deep fryer the turkey in the pot.