Turkey Fryers

Extra-large fryers are big enough to cook your Thanksgiving bird

A turkey fryer is essentially a large pot set atop a heat source (usually propane gas). Although deep-fried turkey is velvety and full of flavor, cooking can be a major fire hazard. If the pot is overfilled, the addition of the turkey can send oil over the sides of the pot and onto the flame below, setting the oil alight. A turkey that's still partially frozen can cause the oil to pop and splutter. And turkey fryers can tip over, spilling hot oil. Many municipal fire departments have issued stern warnings against using a turkey fryer.

Safety experts recommend that you leave frying turkey to restaurant professionals, but if you simply must fry your own turkey, reviews say that the Bayou Classic 30-Quart Outdoor Turkey Fryer Kit 3066A (*Est. $65) is relatively sturdy. Frying a turkey requires a canister of propane and about 4 gallons of oil, and disposing of all that oil can be a hassle, reviews warn. Some owners say it takes as long as 45 minutes for the oil to come up to temperature, and even if you follow the directions carefully, the turkey can come out undercooked. Still, reviews for this turkey fryer are generally favorable, and the pot can be pressed into service at a backyard crab boil.

The 28-quart Masterbuilt 20010406 Digital Electric Deep Fryer (*Est. $120) has an adjustable digital temperature control and timer, and a drain valve to make cleaning up easier. It can fry up to a 14-pound turkey. According to expert reviewers, the Masterbuilt electric fryer is far safer than gas-fired turkey fryers, and reviews say this fryer turns out juicy, golden brown turkey.