We’re not lyin,’ we are fryin’ our turkey

Wednesday, 16 November 2011 01:00

Yes! For the past few years we have been frying our holiday bird.

Hi everyone, it’s Judy writing this time. We usually celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday at my home. My oldest son Jimmy is in charge of this project, which has become a new tradition for all of us. All the men in the family take part, and each have their own job to do.

My nephew, known as “little Jimmy,” has a special rub that he created, so it is his job to prepare the turkey. One sets up the fryer, one pours the oil, etc.

We all wait for the oil to come to temperature, and it’s uncle Jimmy who has the honors of lowering the bird into its oily bubble bath (by now you must realize, most of the men in the family are all named Jimmy, including my husband.

All the women and younger children are called outside to watch as we take pictures, clap and giggle; it’s so much fun!

Most frying kits come with all you need — the pot, turkey rack, lifting hook and deep-fat thermometer. The fryer sits on a burner that you connect to a propane tank. Turkey frying should always happen outside and not too near the house. Make sure you read the owner’s manual for all safety precautions.

A turkey headed to the fryer is prepped the same way an oven-bound turkey is. A frozen bird should be thoroughly thawed, and you need to allow enough time for the turkey to come to room temperature. Wash it and dry completely. The spice rub is next.

Very reluctantly, “little Jimmy” has agreed to share this recipe. He is like someone else in our family — our Nana. She never liked to share her recipes outside of the family.  Nana would intentionally leave out one ingredient. This was to make sure Nana’s would always taste the best.  I hope you enjoy it.

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Jimmy’s Special Spice Rub

1 1/2 teaspoon  black pepper

1 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

1 teaspoon adobo seasoning

1 teaspoon nutmeg

1 teaspoon cayenne

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 tablespoon garlic salt

1 tablespoon paprika

Combine all spices in a small bowl. Stir to mix. Rub all over turkey.