How Long To Cook Turkey In Big Easy Per Pound?
The general rule of thumb for cooking turkey in a Big Easy oil-less turkey fryer is 8-10 minutes per pound. However, it’s crucial to monitor the internal temperature using a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
Understanding the Big Easy Turkey Fryer
The Big Easy oil-less turkey fryer is a popular appliance known for delivering crispy skin and juicy meat without the mess and danger of traditional oil fryers. It utilizes infrared heat to cook the turkey, making it a healthier and safer alternative. It’s essential to understand its unique cooking mechanism to accurately estimate cooking times.
Benefits of Using a Big Easy
Compared to traditional oven roasting or deep frying, the Big Easy offers several advantages:
- Healthier: No oil means less fat and calories.
- Safer: Eliminates the risk of oil spills and burns associated with deep frying.
- Faster: Cooks a turkey significantly faster than oven roasting.
- Flavorful: Delivers crispy skin and juicy, flavorful meat.
- Less Mess: No oil disposal required.
Preparing Your Turkey for the Big Easy
Proper preparation is key to achieving optimal results. Follow these steps:
- Thaw completely: Ensure the turkey is fully thawed before cooking. This prevents uneven cooking and ensures food safety. A good rule is 24 hours for every 5 pounds of turkey, in the refrigerator.
- Remove giblets and neck: These should be removed from the turkey cavity before cooking.
- Pat dry: Thoroughly dry the turkey inside and out with paper towels. This helps achieve crispy skin.
- Season: Generously season the turkey inside and out with your favorite dry rub or seasonings.
- Optional: Inject marinade: Injecting marinade into the turkey can add extra flavor and moisture.
- No Stuffing: Never stuff a turkey when using a Big Easy. The lack of cavity cooking will result in uncooked stuffing.
Cooking Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a step-by-step guide to cooking your turkey in the Big Easy:
- Preheat: Preheat the Big Easy according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 10-15 minutes).
- Place turkey in basket: Carefully place the prepared turkey in the cooking basket, breast-side up.
- Lower into fryer: Gently lower the basket into the preheated Big Easy.
- Cook: Cook for the estimated time (8-10 minutes per pound), but always rely on internal temperature.
- Check temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh. The turkey is done when it reaches 165°F.
- Rest: Remove the turkey from the Big Easy and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful turkey.
Factors Affecting Cooking Time
Several factors can influence the cooking time in the Big Easy:
- Turkey weight: Larger turkeys require longer cooking times.
- Ambient temperature: Cold weather can increase cooking time.
- Turkey temperature at start: A turkey that isn’t completely thawed will take longer to cook.
- Wind: Wind can affect the heat distribution and increase cooking time.
- Individual fryer variations: Each Big Easy fryer might have slight variations in heat output.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common mistakes for the best results:
- Not thawing the turkey completely: This is the most common mistake and can lead to uneven cooking and food safety concerns.
- Overcrowding the fryer: Only cook one turkey at a time.
- Using the wrong seasonings: Avoid using seasonings with high sugar content, as they can burn.
- Not using a meat thermometer: Relying solely on time estimates is unreliable. A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring the turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Skipping the resting period: Allowing the turkey to rest is crucial for retaining moisture.
- Stuffing the turkey: The Big Easy does not cook inside the cavity, so stuffing will not cook.
Troubleshooting
If your turkey is cooking too quickly or too slowly, consider these troubleshooting tips:
- Too fast: Reduce the cooking time slightly and monitor the internal temperature closely. If the outside is browning too quickly, you can loosely tent the turkey with foil.
- Too slow: Ensure the fryer is preheated properly and that there are no drafts affecting the heat. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
Tips for Crispy Skin
Achieving crispy skin is one of the main draws of the Big Easy. Here are some tips:
- Dry the turkey thoroughly: Pat the turkey dry inside and out with paper towels before seasoning.
- Use a dry rub: Dry rubs help to draw out moisture and promote crispy skin.
- Avoid basting: Basting can make the skin soggy.
- Don’t overcrowd: Make sure the turkey isn’t touching the sides of the basket.
| Turkey Weight (lbs) | Estimated Cooking Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| 10 | 80-100 |
| 12 | 96-120 |
| 14 | 112-140 |
| 16 | 128-160 |
Always use a meat thermometer! This chart is an estimate only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a frozen turkey in the Big Easy?
No, never use a frozen turkey in the Big Easy. It is extremely dangerous and will lead to uneven cooking and potential foodborne illness. The turkey must be completely thawed before cooking.
What is the maximum turkey size I can cook in the Big Easy?
Most Big Easy models have a weight limit of around 16 pounds, but always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model. Exceeding the weight limit can compromise the fryer’s performance and safety.
Can I use marinade with the Big Easy?
Yes, you can inject marinade into the turkey for added flavor and moisture. However, avoid marinades with high sugar content, as they can burn. Make sure to pat the skin dry afterwards.
How do I know when the turkey is done?
The most reliable way to know when the turkey is done is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, making sure it doesn’t touch the bone. The turkey is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I cook other foods in the Big Easy besides turkey?
While designed primarily for turkey, you can cook other poultry and even some cuts of meat in the Big Easy. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific recommendations and cooking times.
How do I clean the Big Easy?
Refer to your owner’s manual for detailed cleaning instructions. Generally, let the unit cool completely. Wipe down the exterior. The basket is usually dishwasher safe. Proper cleaning is essential for maintaining the fryer’s performance and longevity.
Is the Big Easy safe to use?
The Big Easy is generally safer than traditional oil fryers because it doesn’t use hot oil. However, it’s still important to follow all safety precautions outlined in the manufacturer’s instructions, such as using it outdoors on a level surface and keeping children and pets away.
What type of seasoning should I use on my turkey?
Use a dry rub is generally recommended. You can create your own blend of herbs and spices or purchase a pre-made dry rub. Avoid seasonings with high sugar content, as they can burn. A combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and herbs like rosemary and thyme works well.
How long should I let the turkey rest after cooking?
Let the turkey rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful turkey. Tent the turkey loosely with foil during the resting period to keep it warm.
My turkey skin isn’t crispy. What did I do wrong?
Several factors can contribute to soggy skin:
- Not drying the turkey thoroughly before cooking.
- Basting the turkey during cooking.
- Overcrowding the fryer.
- Too much humidity.
Can I use an extension cord with the Big Easy?
It is generally not recommended to use an extension cord with the Big Easy. If you must use one, make sure it is a heavy-duty outdoor extension cord rated for the appliance’s wattage. Avoid using long extension cords, as they can cause voltage drop and affect the fryer’s performance.
What do I do if my Big Easy fryer stops working during cooking?
First, check the power cord to make sure it is securely plugged in. Check the circuit breaker or fuse box to see if a circuit has been tripped. If the problem persists, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or contact customer support. Never attempt to repair the fryer yourself.