Smoking a Turkey

[MGordon]

For the past 5 or 6 years, I’ve been frying our turkey for Thanksgiving. This year I want to smoke the bird like before. The problem is, I can’t remember how long it takes (I’ve been spoiled by 3 minutes per pound frying). I use a Weber kettle with a small water pan in the center of the coals, so its cooks faster than a traditional smoker. Turkey will probably be about 20lbs. Any input would be appreciated.

 

[Dull Pain]

Depends on your temperature! I like to smoke at about 225 - 240 deg. My grill smoker is very controllable. A 20lb turkey would take about 7 to 8 hrs at that temp. Best thing to do is get a meat thermometer and insert in the breast , away from bone , and check after 4 hrs, 5 hrs, 6 hrs etc. I believe about 180 deg. is done for fowl.



If fire is hot and extremities (wings, legs) begin to burn/char you can cover those with foil to prevent that. Hope it turns out well and all here have a good Turkey Day.



If anybody wants to know the Cadillac of grills/smokers , go to biggreenegg.com.

 

[Jengle]

What DP said is right on. Get and use a thermometer, and my dad smokes them a lot, and 8hrs is about right. Good luck with yours.

 

[JLEONARD]

I have an electric smoker and agree with about 8 hours and 180 deg...

I usually rub it down good with olive oil, sprinkle on some seasoning (Wye River or Old Bay) and stuff the cavity with plenty of garlic.

(Garlic keeps the evil Ford spirits away):-laf

Add a couple of pheasants if you have rack space... they make a nice appetiser.

Have fun.

Jay

 

[Dull Pain]

So! How did the bird turn out?

 

[MGordon]

Turkey tuned out great. I sure do enjoy Thanksgiving.

 

[Jengle]

Glad it worked out for you. Happy Thanksgiving.

 

[Forrest]

We're doin another round of Turkey today ... Thanksgiving #2. Great food & family ... it's just that bathroom scale. :--)