Turkey Fryer Oil Usage

What do I do with the turkey fryer oil after cooking?
Cooking oil can be stored and re-used. After the turkey fryer oil has completely cooled, it should be filtered to remove any sediment, seasonings and poultry parts. You can use a filtering funnel to return it back to its original container, or use Eastman Outdoors' new battery powered turkey fryer oil filter pump, which uses a filter and quickly returns the oil cleanly into the oil container. Oil must be stored in an airtight container. Store in a dark, cool, dry place. Properly stored oil can be stored for up to 6 months.

How do I know if the oil is still good for cooking?
First, when using the oil to cook, do not let it reach temperatures above 375 degrees F. Most cooking oils typically begin to break down around 400 degrees F, turning rancid. If you notice the oil begin to smoke, monitor the temperature, as this is a sign that the oil is overheating.If you're not sure about the oil's quality for re-cooking, yet you've stored it properly, prepare a "test run" before starting to cook.When the oil is heated to the cooking temperature, try cooking a small batch of french fries or potato slices to see if they taste good. If you detect an unpleasant grease taste, or a slight rancid flavor, dispose of the oil and use new oil.

How long and how often can I use the same turkey fryer oil?
Most cooking oils can be used up to 6 hours straight fry time, given the temperature is kept within the proper cooking range. In this time frame, you can typically cook up to 7-8 turkeys. Always make sure you bring the oil back up to 350 degrees F. before cooking the next bird. This will sterilize the oil. With proper storage and filtering, you can re-use cooking oil many times within the six month recommended storing period. However, the more you use it, the more the oil can retain minute particles of sediment, seasoning, etc. and can affect the flavor of the oil.

What is the best way to dispose of used turker fryer oil?
The best way to properly dispose of used cooking oil is to recycle it. Many restaurants will take it from you for recycling. They sell it to recycling companies that will recycle it for use in making cosmetics and other products. Rendering companies will also take it.

What type of oil is best for frying?
For turkey deep fryers -vegetable oil, cotton seed oil, and other high flash point cooking oils can be used, but peanut oil is recommended because it cooks the best, has the highest flash point, is healthier and stays clear for a longer period of time. To determine the correct amount of oil to use when frying, place the turkey on the stand and place in the pot.

Add water until it reaches 1 to 2 inches above the turkey. Remove the turkey and note the water level. Pour out the water and dry the pot and turkey thoroughly.It is important to not use too much oil, as the bird will displace the oil. If you use too much oil, the oil will pour over the sides, creating a potential hazard as well as a real mess to clean up.