Many cooks ask concerned questions when thinking about deep frying a turkey outdoors; we consider those question in this article.

What size of pot should I use for turkey frying?

The general guidelines are as follows:

1. use a 24-qt stockpot for a turkey up to 16-lb.;

2. use a 30-qt stockpot for a turkey up to up to 20-lb.;

3. use a 34-qt stockpot for a turkey up to up to 24-lb; and,

4. use a 42-qt stockpot for a turkey up to up to 27lb.

What do I need to fry a turkey?

To fry a turkey with all the appropriate equipment you will require:

1. a suitably sized burner for your stockpot;

2. a stainless or aluminum steel turkey fryer pot;

3. a stainless steel or aluminum turkey fryer basket with vented lid;

4. a stainless steel or aluminum Perforated Steam/Boil Basket and grab hook;

5. a stainless steel turkey fryer thermometer [50°F - 750°F];

6. a trail seasoning injector and

7. a 3 piece chicken skewer set.

If you are starting from scratch and have to buy everything you are going to need then it makes sense to buy a kit including a burner and all the above items rather then buy all the components of the kit separately. For great value turkey fryers and Turkey fryer kits visit the Outdoor Cooking Equipment Store online.

You will need a really sturdy pair of oven gloves, normal kitchen oven gloves are insufficient; play it safe, get another pair;Ahead of starting frying you need to find and prepare a safe flat area around the turkey fryer. Nearby you need to have a bucket of sand and a fire towel.

What temperature should I cook my turkey at and for how long?

The optimum frying temperature is 350 F.

How long should I cook my bird for?

Whole turkeys typically require 3-3½ minutes per pound [a much shorter time than in the oven indoors]. When cooked the turkey's temperature will be 170 degrees in the breast and 180 degrees in the thigh. Don't guess, use a thermometer! A single whole chicken takes about 18 minutes.

In cold, windy conditions cooking require a few more minutes.

When the turkey is cooked remove it from the stockpot then leave it to rest for 10 minutes; this will hugely improve its flavor , juiciness and texture.

Exactly how should I cook my turkey outdoors?

1. Totally unfreeze the bird then Wash the bird thoroughly inside and out, then dry it with paper towels;

2. Sprinkle and then rub a generous portion of poultry seasoning onto and under the skin and within the interior cavity. Or use an injection marinade as long as it is a thin based liquid. Use around 1-2 oz. per pound.

How much oil should I use to deep-fry my turkey?

The proper amount of oil needed will depend on the size of the bird and the pot. The larger the turkey, the less oil is required. Wider diameter pots require more oil. To determine the amount of oil needed:

1. Place the thawed turkey upside down on the poultry rack.

2. Fill the pot with water until the poultry is covered.

3. Remove poultry and rack form the pot.

4. The amount of water in pot corresponds to the amount of cooking oil needed.

How long will a propane tank last?

Typically gas in a propane tank will last up to 3-4 hrs of constant use. The actual tank will last a lifetime with proper care.

What type of oil is best to use to fry a turkey?

Peanut oil is recommended because it contains no cholesterol, it can be reused more frequently and it is safer because it has a higher flash point so reducing the risk of fire.

How should I clean my stockpot after frying?

All you need to clean your pot is warm soapy water and a rag. Make sure you clean out all the salt, pepper and any spices that you may have added to the pot.