Roasting is certainly the most common method to cook turkey, but it’s not the only option available.
If you want something different and prefer not to spend a long time preparing, consider deep frying your turkey.
Deep frying is a quick and simple method that results in very crispy skin and juicy meat that stays moist. However, it’s important to choose the right type of oil for frying.
The best oils for deep frying turkey include peanut oil, which is a popular choice. You can also opt for oils with a high smoke point, such as sunflower oil, safflower oil, rice bran oil, corn oil, soybean oil, and avocado oil.
Continue reading to learn more about the best oils for deep frying turkey and key factors to consider when selecting one.
Contents
Considerations for Selecting Oil for Deep Frying Turkey:
Smoke Point
The smoke point is the temperature at which oil begins to decompose. Oils with higher smoke points are preferable for deep frying, as they can reach higher temperatures without smoking or creating burnt flavors, which can also pose fire hazards. Recommended oils include:
- Avocado oil: 570°F
- Safflower oil: 510°F
- Refined soybean oil: 460°F
- Peanut oil: 450°F
- Refined coconut oil: 450°F
- Sunflower oil: 450°F
- Rice bran oil: 450°F
- Corn oil: 440°F
- Refined canola oil: 400°F
- Vegetable oil: 400°F
Type of Oil (Refined and Light-Colored)
Opt for refined oils as they have higher smoke points due to the elimination of impurities. Generally, lighter-colored oils smoke less than darker ones.
Flavor
The oil’s flavor affects the turkey. Neutral oils let the turkey’s natural taste shine, while peanut oil adds a pleasant nuttiness that complements turkey well.
Cost
Consider the expense since deep frying requires 3-6 gallons of oil, which can be costly. Although you can reuse oil, initial amounts are significant. Peanut and soybean oils are usually more affordable options, while sunflower and safflower oils are healthier but pricier. Avocado oil, while high in smoke point, is even more expensive.
Top 12 Best Oils for Deep Frying Turkey
Select the oil that you can easily find at your local grocery store, and also take into account your own taste preferences, as each oil adds a unique flavor to your dish.
1. Peanut Oil
Peanut oil is the best choice for frying turkey and suitable for various deep frying recipes. Its key advantage is a high smoke point of 450°F.
Additionally, peanut oil has a subtle taste that won’t alter your dish’s flavor. It is easy to find, affordable, and adds healthy fats to meals.
Another benefit is that peanut oil can be reused due to its high smoke point; it doesn’t break down as quickly as other oils, and you only need to strain it before reuse.
I’ve discovered that the top peanut oil available is this one from Amazon, and it’s the most affordable too—just make sure to buy plenty of bottles!
2. Vegetable oil
Vegetable oil is a good alternative if you don’t have other oils available for your recipe. It is low in fat and widely available in stores.
When it comes to taste, vegetable oil is neutral, allowing the flavor of the turkey to shine through.
While its smoke point is relatively low at 400 degrees Fahrenheit, it can still work well for frying turkey. Typically, vegetable oil is a blend of corn oil, palm oil, and canola oil.
3. Corn oil
Corn oil is an excellent choice when it comes to frying turkey, even though there are differing opinions regarding its use. With a smoke point of 450 degrees Fahrenheit, it provides the ideal temperature needed to achieve a perfectly fried turkey.
Additionally, its mild flavor profile makes it an appealing option, as it will not interfere with or change the taste of your meal.
On the downside, once you’ve used corn oil for frying your turkey, it cannot be reused for subsequent frying, since it absorbs a significant amount of the turkey’s flavor during the cooking process.
4. Sunflower Oil
Sunflower oil is created by pressing sunflower seeds to extract the oil, and it’s great for various cooking methods like roasting, stir-frying, and deep-frying because of its high smoke point.
Its neutral taste allows for safe cooking at high temperatures for extended periods, making it an excellent option for deep-frying turkey.
Moreover, sunflower oil is low in saturated fats and rich in polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, which makes it a healthier choice overall.
Check out Healthy Harvest Non-GMO Sunflower Oil; it’s naturally processed to keep its antioxidants and is perfect for cooking, baking, frying, and more.
5. Olive oil
Olive oil is incredibly versatile and can be incorporated into nearly every recipe that calls for any kind of oil, making it a staple in many kitchens. It is available in various types, each with unique characteristics. The majority of olive oils offer a high smoke point, typically around 450 degrees Fahrenheit or even greater.
In particular, extra light olive oil boasts an impressive smoke point of 468 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing it to withstand high cooking temperatures without breaking down.
One of the key benefits of olive oil is its health properties, primarily due to its high content of monounsaturated fats, which are known to be beneficial for heart health.
It also adds a subtle yet distinct flavor to dishes, enhancing their taste without overpowering other ingredients. Furthermore, it can be easily found in most grocery stores, making it accessible for everyday cooking.
6. Rice Bran Oil
Rice bran oil is excellent for deep frying turkey due to its high smoke point of around 450°F, making it ideal for high-temperature cooking.
This oil is extracted from the outer layer of rice grains and is regarded as sustainable since it makes use of a rice byproduct.
It has a mild taste that complements the turkey without overpowering it, and it is a healthier option since it contains low saturated fats.
Consider Heavenly Chef’s Rice Bran Oil, which is all-natural, made from 100% non-GMO rice, unfiltered, free of trans fats, and heart-healthy.
7. Canola oil
Canola oil reaches a smoke point of 400 degrees F, which is sufficient for frying turkey, even though it’s lower than some other oils mentioned here.
This oil is versatile for baking, deep frying, stir-frying, and various other recipes, ensuring your dishes are flavorful. Its mild flavor won’t overpower your meals and will actually improve their taste.
8. Corn Oil
Corn oil has a comparable smoke point to peanut oil, sitting at approximately 440°F, making it an excellent option for deep frying turkey. Additionally, it is an affordable option, which is a significant advantage for those on a budget.
This oil has a mild and neutral flavor profile, which allows the natural taste of the turkey to come through beautifully. However, one downside is that corn oil can absorb and retain the flavors of the foods cooked in it, so if you plan to use it for other dishes, you should be cautious about the lingering tastes.
That said, you can certainly reuse corn oil multiple times for frying turkey and other meats without issue. For those in need of a substantial supply, consider the Happy Belly Corn Oil available on Amazon, which is offered in a large 128 oz container to fully support your deep-frying endeavors.
9. Coconut oil
Coconut oil is considered one of the healthier choices in various applications, but it has a lower smoke point compared to other oils, specifically at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Nonetheless, there are certain refined coconut oils that can achieve a smoke point of 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
No matter which type you select, it is suitable for frying but not advisable for deep frying. This oil is composed of approximately 90% saturated fats.
10. Soybean Oil
Soybean oil is among the most popular cooking oils globally and ranks as the second most used vegetable oil.
Its smoke point reaches 450°F, making it perfect for high-temperature cooking. With its mild flavor, affordability, easy accessibility, and low saturated fat content, it’s a fantastic option for deep frying turkey.
Consider trying Happy Belly Vegetable Oil, which is crafted from soybean oil and is great for deep frying turkey, as well as foods like fried chicken, chicken strips, French fries, and cheese sticks.
11. Safflower oil
Safflower oil is comparable to other oils suitable for frying turkey. It has a relatively high smoke point of slightly over 500 degrees Fahrenheit, and its taste is subtle and non-intrusive.
Additionally, this oil is packed with monounsaturated fats, making it a healthy choice for frying various kinds of meats. While safflower oil may be somewhat difficult to locate in stores, if you come across it, it’s definitely worth considering for your cooking needs.
12. Avocado Oil
Avocado oil is high in healthy fats and has a very high smoke point of 570°F, making it an excellent choice for deep frying turkey and other foods.
It can handle high temperatures for extended periods and adds a creamy, buttery flavor to fried dishes.
However, avocado oil can be pricey. When considering the amount needed to deep fry a turkey, you might want to think carefully before using it.
You might be tempted to reuse the oil several times. While this is possible, avoid reusing it too many times because the oil deteriorates with use over time.
Chosen Foods Avocado Oil is perfect for high-heat cooking, frying, and baking. It is available in a 2-liter bulk bottle, which is great for deep frying.
Turkey Frying Oil Safety Guidelines
- Always stay vigilant and never leave frying oil unattended.
- Ensure that children and pets are kept at a safe distance from the heated oil.
- Utilize cooking thermometers to keep track of the oil temperature.
- Allow the oil to cool completely before disposing of it or straining it for reuse.
- Keep a fire extinguisher readily available in case of any flare-ups.
- Avoid overfilling the fryer, as oil expands when it is heated.
- Refrain from frying in wet conditions, such as rain or snow, as moisture can cause hot oil to splatter.
- Wear appropriate protective gear, including gloves, long sleeves, closed-toe shoes, and safety goggles.
FAQ
How Much Oil Is Needed to Fry a Turkey?
Generally, use 1 quart of oil for each pound of turkey. Therefore, a 10-pound turkey needs 4-5 gallons of oil, which should completely cover the bird.
Use a deep stock pot, turkey fryer, or a large container. Ensure there’s at least 5 inches of space between the oil and the pot’s edge after adding the turkey to prevent spills and fires.
How do I make my fried turkey skin crispy?
To achieve crispy skin on your fried turkey, it is essential to ensure that the turkey is completely dry. Skipping this process is not advisable. Remaining moisture will adhere to the turkey during cooking, leading to soggy skin and preventing it from achieving a golden color. Additionally, hot oil does not mix well with water; any excess moisture can create the risk of a grease fire if not properly dried.
What do you do with the oil after frying a turkey?
Once the turkey frying is complete, the oil will generally be no longer usable. Allow the oil to cool, then carefully transfer it into an old milk jug or its original container. A funnel can help prevent spills during this process. This method ensures that the oil can be disposed of safely without the risk of leaks or attracting animals.
Final thoughts
Selecting the right oil for frying your turkey can be challenging for beginners. However, this guide will ensure you achieve great results.
Your turkey will be juicy inside with a crispy, golden exterior that your guests will love.
Making the perfect fried turkey relies on both experience and knowledge.
With each attempt, you’ll gain valuable insights to create the ideal turkey for you and your family.
Choosing the appropriate cooking oil is vital for the taste of your dish.
Prioritize your health by selecting an oil that is beneficial for both your palate and well-being!