Can You Fry a Turkey the Day Before and Reheat It?

Frying a turkey has become a popular cooking method for many families on Thanksgiving or Christmas. The appeal is easy to understand – a fried turkey comes out juicy, moist and so flavorful. However, frying a turkey on the holiday itself can be quite a process. It takes time, attention and care So a common question arises – can you fry the turkey a day before the big meal, and simply reheat it on the day?

The short answer is yes, you can absolutely fry your turkey ahead of time and reheat it. However, proper storage and reheating techniques are vital for food safety. When handled carefully, a fried turkey made the day before can be just as delicious as one fried the same day.

Below is a comprehensive guide on how to safely fry your turkey early store it overnight and reheat it to perfection on the big day

Why Make the Turkey Ahead?

Frying the turkey in advance offers several benefits

• Allows you to cook when it’s most convenient, instead of feeling rushed on Thanksgiving day
• Frees up oven space if you need it for side dishes and pies
• Lets you focus on other meal components like setting the table, prepping sides etc.
• Reduces stress and chaos on the holiday
• Ensures a backup turkey in case more guests arrive than planned

Making the bird ahead takes the pressure off and sets you up for a more relaxed and enjoyable meal.

Food Safety Considerations

While frying ahead offers perks, it’s crucial to keep food safety as the number one priority. Raw poultry can contain bacteria like Salmonella. Frying cooks the turkey quickly and kills bacteria, but only if proper cooling, storing and reheating guidelines are followed after cooking.

The main risks with making a fried turkey ahead are:

• Bacterial growth if the cooked turkey is left at room temperature too long
• Contamination if stored improperly
• Undercooking if not reheated thoroughly to safe internal temperatures

So let’s discuss how to avoid these pitfalls with safe handling.

Step 1: Cooling the Fried Turkey

Once the turkey emerges golden and delicious from the fryer, it’s important to cool it down quickly to prevent bacterial growth.

Here’s a safe cooling process:

• Let it rest for 20-30 minutes out of the oil. This allows juices to settle for easier carving.
• Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature has dropped to below 40°F within two hours.
• Place turkey in a shallow pan, and divide into smaller portions if needed to speed cooling.
• Do not tightly cover the turkey, as this slows heat transfer.

Once cooled below 40°F, it’s safe for overnight storage.

Step 2: Overnight Storage

You did the work frying the bird – now store it carefully to keep your efforts intact! Here are tips for safe overnight storage:

• Use shallow, covered containers. This prevents drying.
• Refrigerate within 2 hours at 40°F or below. This prevents bacterial growth.
• Keep fried turkey away from strong smelling foods, as it absorbs odors.
• If you portion the bird, store slices tightly wrapped in bags or foil to retain moisture.

Proper overnight storage keeps your turkey fresh, safe and ready for reheating.

Step 3: Reheating the Turkey

This is the most crucial step. The turkey must reach an internal temperature of 165°F to eliminate bacteria.

Here are safe reheating techniques:

Oven Reheating

The oven allows even, controlled reheating. Use these steps:

• Preheat oven to 300°F. Higher temps risk dryness.
• Place turkey in a baking dish, and add a little broth or oil to prevent drying.
• Cover tightly with foil. Heat until internal temp reaches 165°F.

Microwave Reheating

Microwaves can create cold spots, so extra care is needed:

• Heat turkey in microwave-safe dish, covered, on high in 30-45 second bursts.
• Check internal temp between bursts, reheating until 165°F is reached.

Deep Frying Again

Some people prefer crisping the skin by frying again. Only do this if oil is fresh, clean and hot enough. Fry just until 165°F.

No matter the reheating method, use a food thermometer to guarantee the turkey reaches food-safe interior temperatures throughout.

Serving a Perfect Reheated Turkey

You did all the hard work – now it’s time to shine on Turkey Day! Here are tips for serving up a mouthwatering reheated fried turkey:

• Let it rest 10-15 minutes before carving for juicier meat.
• Carve the turkey in advance for faster serving on the big day.
• Arrange sliced turkey neatly on a platter.
• Garnish with fresh herbs and fruits for festive flair.
• Drizzle pan juices over the turkey for added moistness and flavor.

Storing Leftovers Safely

Leftover fried turkey keeps in the fridge for 3-4 days. To maximize freshness:

• Portion turkey into shallow airtight containers.
• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of serving.
• Reheat leftovers until steaming hot, at least 165°F.

With proper handling, fried turkey made ahead is a safe option that makes the holiday less hectic. Focus on fun and family while serving up your moist, juicy and delicious bird!