Southern Fried Turkey
Southern Fried Turkey is a deliciously crispy dish that combines golden-brown skin with juicy, tender meat. This classic Southern recipe is perfect for family gatherings and holidays, creating unforgettable moments filled with flavor. With its rich seasoning and satisfying crunch, even novice cooks can impress their guests with this mouthwatering turkey.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: Approximately 45 minutes
- Total Time: 11 minute
- Yield: Serves about 8 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
Scale
- 12–14 lb whole turkey
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 tbsp hot sauce
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
- Oil for frying (about 4 quarts)
Instructions
- Brine the turkey by mixing buttermilk and hot sauce in a large container. Submerge the turkey in this mixture and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the coating by mixing flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the turkey from the brine and allow excess liquid to drip off. Dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture.
- Carefully lower the coated turkey into hot oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes per pound until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let it rest on paper towels after frying before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of a medium turkey portion (113g)
- Calories: 364
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: For added flavor, customize your seasoning blend with cayenne pepper or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary. Ensure oil temperature is accurate for optimal crispiness, and don’t overcrowd the pot when frying.