Frozen Turkey in Hot Oil: A Recipe for Disaster

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This Thanksgiving, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission shows us not to put a frozen turkey in a hot deep fryer. This video shows the results – a dramatic explosion of oil and flames. “We estimate an average of about 1,400 cooking fires on Thanksgiving Day each year,” reads a statement that goes with the video. This is more than three times the daily average of cooking fires that occur during the remaining months of the year. ’.

If you’re thinking about frying a frozen turkey think again! It’s a dangerous and potentially explosive situation that can cause serious injuries.

Here’s why you should never fry a frozen turkey:

  • Density differences: When you put a frozen turkey in hot oil, the ice crystals inside the turkey turn to steam very quickly. This creates a rapid expansion of volume, which can cause the oil to splatter and even explode.
  • Water and oil don’t mix: Oil and water don’t mix, so when the ice crystals in the turkey turn to steam, they create tiny pockets of water within the oil. These pockets of water can cause the oil to splatter and even explode.
  • Uneven cooking: When you fry a frozen turkey, the outside will cook much faster than the inside. This can result in a turkey that is undercooked in the center and overcooked on the outside.

Here are some safer alternatives to frying a frozen turkey:

  • Thaw the turkey completely before frying it. This will allow the turkey to cook evenly and prevent the oil from splattering.
  • Roast the turkey in the oven. This is a safer and more reliable way to cook a turkey.
  • Use a slow cooker. This is a great option for cooking a turkey that is already cooked, such as a leftover Thanksgiving turkey.

No matter how you choose to cook your turkey, be sure to follow the safety guidelines carefully. Frying a turkey is a dangerous activity, so it’s important to take all necessary precautions.

Here are some additional tips for safely frying a turkey:

  • Use a turkey fryer that is specifically designed for frying turkeys.
  • Fry the turkey outdoors in a well-ventilated area.
  • Never leave the turkey fryer unattended.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency.

If you’re still considering frying a frozen turkey, please reconsider. It’s simply not worth the risk. There are many other safer and more reliable ways to cook a turkey.

P.S. If you’re looking for some delicious turkey recipes, check out the Food52 website or the Virtual Weber Bulletin Board. They have a wealth of ideas to help you create a memorable feast.

Footage: What happens if frozen turkey is put into hot oil?

FAQ

What happens if you put a frozen turkey in hot oil?

Combine the fast change in density with the expansion of volume, and you get an explosion. The steam expands and rises, blowing the boiling oil out the pot. If that weren’t dangerous enough, as the displaced oil comes into contact with a burner or flame, it can catch fire.

How long to cook turkey in hot oil?

Maintain the temperature of the oil at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C), and cook turkey for 3 1/2 minutes per pound, about 35 minutes. Carefully remove basket from oil, and drain turkey. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh; the internal temperature must be 180 degrees F (80 degrees C).

Can you fry a slightly frozen turkey?

Roasting is Best The temperatures of smoking (225-275°F [107-135°C]) are too low to cook a frozen turkey to a food safe temperature within 4 hours. Q: Can I deep-fry a frozen turkey? A: NO!! NEVER.

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  2. Does Turkey Experience a Stall When Smoked?
  3. How to Defrost a Turkey in the Sink: A Quick and Safe Guide
  4. When to Candle Turkey Eggs: A Comprehensive Guide

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