Southern Deep Fried Turkey Recipe

Southern Deep Fried Turkey Recipe may sound strange, but it comes out a beautiful golden brown, very moist and tender.  You may just surprise yourself.

INGREDIENT:

• 10 to 12 lb. Whole Turkey (nonself-basting)
• 1/3 Cup Dry Sherry
• 2/3 Cup Vinaigrette
• 1 tsp. Onion Powder
• 1 tsp. Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp. Cayenne Pepper
• 2 tsp. Lemon Pepper Seasoning Salt
• Peanut Oil, as needed
• Injection syringe
• Outdoor Gas Burner
• 7-10 Gallon Pot, with a basket
• Deep Fry Thermometer

Directions:

1. Remove the giblets and neck, rinse the turkey well with cold water and dry with paper towels.  Make sure to dry the inside cavities.
2. Then cut the wing tips and tail off, they tend to get stuck in the fryer.
3. In a bowl, mix the dry sherry, vinaigrette, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and lemon pepper seasoning salt together.  Strain the marinade and place it in an injection syringe.  Inject the marinade in the turkey legs, thighs, and breast.
4. Then place the bird in a large plastic bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.  Flip the bag and massage the turkey from time to time.
5. Drain the turkey of a marinade and place the turkey in the fryer basket or on a rack, neck down.
6. The outdoor gas burner should be placed on a level grassy or dirt area.  Grease fires are highly flammable, so make sure there’s a fire extinguisher nearby.  Also, never place the fryer indoors, in a garage, on a deck, and off the concrete.  Keep away from all structures. 
7. Start to heat the oil in the pot, at the medium-high setting, until it registers 375 degrees F.  This usually takes about 40 to 50 minutes.  Slowly lower turkey into the hot oil, with a partner.  It’s smart to wear oven mitts/gloves, long sleeves, heavy-duty shoes, and even glasses; you don’t want to be burned by the oil.
8. Check the oil temperature and make sure it’s maintained at 350 degrees F if it drops below 340, the oil seeps into the turkey.
9. The rule is to fry for about 3 to 4 minutes per pound of turkey.  A 10 to 12-pound turkey usually takes about 35 to 42 minutes.  Never leave the cooker, the oil temperature must be maintained.
10. The bird should be cooked to 170 degrees F in the breast.  When it’s done carefully remove the turkey from the oil, letting it drain for a few minutes.  (Make sure oil is completely cool before disposing of)
11. Remove the turkey from the rack and set on a serving platter, cooling for 20 minutes before carving.

And Enjoy your Southern Deep Fried Turkey Recipe!