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Recipe by:

Elena SMITH

Savory Thanksgiving Turkey: Roasting, Frying, and Smoking

A celebration of Thanksgiving with a delicious turkey, prepared using various methods like roasting, deep-frying, or smoking, ensuring a flavorful feast.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 minutes
Total Time 4 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Group: Ingredients
  • 1 whole turkey (10-12 pounds) For roasting
  • 1 Kosher salt
  • 1 Freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ cup Olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 4-5 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds, thawed and dried) For deep-frying
  • Peanut oil For frying
  • 1 whole turkey (size as desired) For smoking
  • Brine (water, salt, sugar, and herbs)
  • Hardwood chips (hickory or applewood)

Equipment

  • Oven For roasting
  • Deep fryer For deep-frying
  • Smoker For smoking
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare the turkey by removing the giblets and patting it dry. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  2. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, quartered onion, smashed garlic, and fresh herbs. Rub the skin with olive oil or melted butter. Roast for about 2.5 to 3 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  3. Heat the deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the thawed turkey into the hot oil. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per pound until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  4. Brine your turkey for at least 12 hours. Prepare your smoker with hardwood. Place the turkey in the smoker and smoke for about 30 minutes per pound, checking the internal temperature for doneness.
  5. Let the turkey rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Notes

Be sure to check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking the turkey. It's important to let it rest to retain moisture.