I am going to deep fry a turkey. Whats the big deal with the peanut oil - its expensive.?

Question

Cant I use Canola instead? Anybody try it?

Answer 1

I also use vegetable oil from a restaurant supply company when my restaurant friend is buying the oil. But when I am paying, I spring for the peanut oil. And yes, only do this outside. Completely outside.
Good Luck.

Answer 2

Okay - for frying turkey, there's a lot more to it than just the oil.

Peanut oil isn't that expensive.You probably could use canola, but I do not recommend it - peanut is preferred because 1. it can withstand much higher cooking temperatures and times before burning, and 2. it cooks more evenly.

Also - NEVER fry a turkey in the house. It's a major fire hazard.
You'll want to check the proper volume of oil needed BEFORE you are ready to cook. Do this by placing the turkey in the vat, and adding water until the turkey is just barely all covered. Then remove the turkey and measure the amount of water. That's how much oil you'll need.

You'll also want to set up some kind of pulley system to lower the turkey into the vat when the oil is hot, since the oil can still sizzle up violently and splat you or catch fire. (you can use a folding stepladder) You especially want to be sure the turkey is thorougly thawed and "dry" before frying it - internal ice chunks make for bad oil explosions.

If you can get a thermometer with a remote read for the fryer, that will help you judge when the oil and turkey is ready as well.

Good luck, and safe frying! (Fried turkey is YUMMY)

Answer 3

Plesso's got it all down to a science---follow her instructions and you can't go wrong!
When frying at extremely hig temps, you need an oil that isn't going to burn. Also, Peanut Oil is exceptionally good for this type of dish because the it can handle the high temp without being absorbed into the turkey. I don't care what anyone says, if you have a choice, go with the peanut oil, and save it after it cools, and use it again. Superior results are worth the initial capital outlay. Bon apetit!

Answer 4

Peanut oil has a high smoke point higher than most oils.

I'd stick with that or bake your turkey.

Answer 5

Peanut oil has a better tolerance for high temperatures. It is also less likely to burn the food your cooking than other oils.

Answer 6

You don't need peanut oil. We use oil from a restaurant supply that is vegetable oil and have very good results.It also costs a lot less.

Answer 7

Peanut oil shouldn't be too expensive.

Answer 8

it may be expensive
but you can save it
pour it back into the container and use it over and over again.....
it is still the best buy for the buck in taste on a fried turkey