Deep-Fried Turkey

http://teriskitchen.com/shared-recipes/deep-fried-turkey.html

(Shared recipe submitted by Alex.)

Alex writes: "This is one of the best ways of cooking turkey and if you have never had it done this way, you are really missing out. The turkey is anything but greasy; the deep-frying process seals the outside and the turkey remains incredibly juicy, while the skin gets wonderfully crispy. This recipe is for a Cajun style of fried turkey."

Ingredients

One 10 to 12 pound turkey
1-1/2 to 2 gallons peanut oil
One 4 ounce bottle of liquid crab boil seasoning, such as Zatarain's or Rex
2 cups water
4 egg whites
Creole seasoning, such as Tony Chachere's, to taste
Kosher salt

First, of course, you need the equipment to cook the turkey on and in. Try a gizmo called a King Cooker for outdoor use; it heats and cooks using a propane tank and stand. Otherwise, use a large, TALL, thick stockpot, preferably 30-quart or larger.

Heat the peanut oil to 350° F. Use a deep-fat frying thermometer clipped onto the side of the pot. Be VERY careful not to exceed this temperature, as the oil can begin to smoke and actually catch fire. Keep constant watch over the temperature and you will be okay.

Use a flavor injector (available from cooking and restaurant supply stores and gourmet shops) to inject the crab boil seasoning, diluted 4 to 1 with the water, throughout the turkey.

Beat the egg whites and paint the turkey with the egg white wash. Sprinkle the entire turkey generously with Creole seasoning. Sprinkle with kosher salt (omit if using Tony Chachere's, which is salty already).

When the oil hits 350° F, slide that baby in very gently, or you will fry your feet if they happen to be near the oil that will splash out if you throw it in. (This was my friend Althea's mistake during her first turkey frying. The best way to get the turkey into the oil is to rig a cradle out of a couple of strong coat hangers.) Cook for about 4 minutes per pound, approximately 35 to 45 minutes for a 10 to 12 pound turkey. Turkeys also have a built in doneness alarm; the turkey will float to the top of the oil when it is done.

Cautionary Note: Deep-frying turkeys can be dangerous. Always follow guidelines for safe outdoor frying procedures and exercise extreme caution.

Disclaimer: This recipe was submitted by a contributor and has not been tested by TerisKitchen.com.