Every year, millions of Americans deep fry their turkeys for Thanksgiving. While this cooking method can produce a juicy, delicious bird, it also has some inherent dangers. But don’t worry! With a little bit of care and caution, you can deep fry your turkey without incident. Here’s what you need to know:
Dangers
Burns
The first danger to consider when deep frying a turkey is the risk of burning oneself. The oil used for deep frying is incredibly hot and can easily cause severe burns. To avoid this, it is essential to use caution when handling hot oil. Wear gloves and long sleeves to protect your skin, and never leave the turkey unattended while cooking.
Grease Fires
Another danger to consider is the risk of starting a grease fire. When hot oil comes in contact with water, it can splatter and cause a fire. To avoid this, thoroughly dry the turkey before placing it in the hot oil. Also, deep fry your turkey outside, away from any flammable materials. Always have a fire extinguisher on hand in case a fire does break out.
Tips for a Smooth Turkey Day
Thaw Your Turkey Completely
If your turkey is even slightly frozen, the ice will cause the hot oil to splatter when it makes contact. To avoid this, make sure your turkey is thawed completely before you begin cooking.
Choose the Right Oil and Frying Vessel
Not all oils are created equal—some have higher smoke points than others. For deep frying, you’ll want to choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as peanut oil or canola oil. As for the frying vessel, opt for a heavy-bottomed pot that is large enough to accommodate your turkey.
Heat the Oil Slowly
Heating oil too quickly can cause it to break down and start smoking. To avoid this, heat the oil over low heat until it reaches the desired temperature. A good rule of thumb is to heat the oil to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
By following these simple tips, you can deep fry your turkey with peace of mind this Thanksgiving.
Injured Due to Negligence?
While Thanksgiving is a wonderful time shared with the ones you love, sometimes injuries can occur at the hands of another person’s reckless behavior. If you were injured due to negligence, give the DiPasquale Moore team a call at (816) 888-7500 or visit our website to fill out a consultation request form.