How to Safely Light and Use a Turkey Fryer

Deep frying a turkey is a quick and delicious way to cook it, but using a turkey fryer requires caution to avoid accidents or injuries. Here is a step-by-step guide to safely lighting and operating a propane turkey fryer

Selecting and Preparing the Location

• Set up the turkey fryer outdoors on a flat, stable surface away from houses, garages, wooden decks, or anything flammable The fryer must be used at least 10 feet away from buildings.

• Do not use the fryer on a wooden or flammable surface Place on concrete or dirt if available

• Protect from wind which could blow the flame onto flammable objects. Position away from trees that could drop leaves or sap.

• Have a fire extinguisher ready in case of accidental fire. informant everyone present of its location.

• Clear the area of children, pets, and activities while cooking. Position fryer away from foot traffic.

Checking the Propane Tank

• Use a tank designed for LP gas with a shutoff valve and sitting flat on the ground. Do not hang the tank from the fryer stand.

• Make sure tank is undamaged and has never been over-filled. Do not use damaged, rusty or dented tanks.

• Check that the tank has enough propane – at least 1/2 full. Shake the tank gently – if you hear liquid propane sloshing, it has sufficient fuel.

• Ensure the tank valve is fully closed by turning clockwise before attaching to regulator.

Attaching the Regulator and Hose

• Securely screw the regulator into the tank valve by hand, do not use tools.

• Perform a leak check – brush soapy water onto connections and look for bubbles. Tighten or re-attach if any bubbles appear. Rinse off soapy residue.

• Attach one end of the hose onto the regulator outlet. Tighten by hand only.

• Attach the other end of the hose to the fryer inlet. Hand tighten only.

Lighting the Burner

• Open the fryer lid. Make sure the turkey is not in the fryer.

• Turn the fryer control knob to OFF position.

• Slowly open propane tank valve all the way to allow gas to flow to the burner.

• Use an extended lighter or stick lighter to ignite the burner. Do not lean over the fryer.

• Once lit, turn the timer knob to desired cooking time to keep gas flowing.

• If the burner doesn’t light, turn the gas OFF and wait 5 minutes before trying again.

Safety Tips While Cooking

• Never leave the fryer unattended during use. Stay near the fryer.

• Do not move or tip the fryer when in use. Propane could leak from connections.

• Do not overfill the fryer with oil. Follow fill line inside metal pot.

• Lower and raise the turkey slowly using the hooks – don’t dump it.

• Keep children and pets away. Declare a safety zone around the fryer.

• Wear eye protection and long sleeves while frying due to splatter risk.

• Monitor oil temperature using a thermometer. Do not let it exceed 375°F.

• Avoid moisture contamination – dry turkey thoroughly and don’t let it touch the oil.

Cooking the Turkey

• Thaw turkey completely, remove giblets, pat extremely dry inside and out.

• Use a 13-15 lb turkey for 30 quart fryer. Do not overload.

• Lower turkey slowly into hot oil using hooks. The oil may bubble up.

• Maintain oil temperature between 325-375°F. Adjust burner as needed.

• Cook 3-4 minutes per pound. Time it according to turkey’s weight.

• Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer – target is 165°F in the breast.

• Remove turkey slowly when done using hooks. Allow oil to drain back into fryer.

After Cooking and Cleaning

• Turn off fryer and gas tank immediately after cooking. Let oil cool completely.

• Filter and strain oil through cheesecloth into container for storage or disposal if reusing.

• Scrub fryer with non-abrasive brush, hot water and detergent to clean. Rinse thoroughly.

• Wipe the outside of the fryer down with a wet cloth. Dry completely before storing.

• Store propane tank upright and outdoors, do not leave in fryer or take indoors.

• Store oil safely for reuse. Dispose used oil properly after 2-3 uses – do not pour down drains.

With proper setup, lighting technique, and safety steps, a turkey fryer can produce a wonderfully quick and juicy bird. But extreme care must be taken due to the inherent dangers of using propane and boiling oil. Follow these guidelines precisely for a safe and delicious deep fried turkey.