How Long to Cook Turkey in an Oilless Fryer?
Cooking a turkey in an oilless fryer is a fantastic way to prepare a delicious and moist bird without the need for a lot of oil. But, the million-dollar question is: how long do you need to cook it? In this article, we’ll dive into the details of cooking a turkey in an oilless fryer, providing you with a comprehensive guide on the cooking time and temperature.
Factors Affecting Cooking Time
Before we dive into the cooking time, it’s essential to understand the factors that can affect the cooking time of your turkey. These factors include:
- Turkey size: Larger turkeys take longer to cook than smaller ones.
- Turkey temperature: A higher temperature will cook the turkey faster, while a lower temperature will take longer.
- Fryer capacity: A larger fryer can cook a turkey faster than a smaller one.
- Turkey type: Heritage or organic turkeys may take longer to cook than regular turkeys.
General Guidelines for Cooking Time
Here are some general guidelines for cooking a turkey in an oilless fryer:
- Turkey size: 10-12 pounds: 20-25 minutes per pound
- Turkey size: 12-14 pounds: 22-27 minutes per pound
- Turkey size: 14-18 pounds: 25-30 minutes per pound
- Turkey size: 18-20 pounds: 28-32 minutes per pound
- Turkey size: 20-24 pounds: 30-35 minutes per pound
Cooking Time for Specific Turkey Sizes
Here is a table summarizing the cooking time for specific turkey sizes:
| Turkey Size | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| 10-12 pounds | 20-25 minutes |
| 12-14 pounds | 22-27 minutes |
| 14-18 pounds | 25-30 minutes |
| 18-20 pounds | 28-32 minutes |
| 20-24 pounds | 30-35 minutes |
Temperature and Check for Doneness
To ensure your turkey is cooked to perfection, it’s essential to check the internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the breast and the innermost part of the thigh. The temperature should reach:
- 165°F (74°C) for breast meat
- 180°F (82°C) for thigh meat
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind when cooking a turkey in an oilless fryer:
- Pat dry the turkey: Before cooking, pat the turkey dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the turkey cook more evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd: Make sure to leave enough space between the turkey and the sides of the fryer to allow for even cooking.
- Don’t open the lid too often: Resist the temptation to check on the turkey too frequently, as this can cause the temperature to fluctuate and affect the cooking time.
- Let it rest: Once the turkey is cooked, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the turkey more tender and juicy.
Conclusion
Cooking a turkey in an oilless fryer is a great way to prepare a delicious and moist bird without the need for a lot of oil. By understanding the factors that affect cooking time and following the general guidelines and specific cooking times for different turkey sizes, you’ll be well on your way to creating a mouth-watering turkey. Remember to check the internal temperature and follow the tips and tricks provided to ensure your turkey is cooked to perfection. Happy cooking!