How to Deep Fry Cornish Hens in a Turkey Fryer: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Deep Fry Cornish Hens in a Turkey Fryer

Cornish hens are a delicious and versatile poultry dish that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One of the most popular methods is to deep fry them in a turkey fryer. This method produces a crispy, golden brown exterior and a juicy, flavorful interior.

Deep frying cornish hens is a relatively simple process, but there are a few things you need to know in order to do it successfully. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide to deep frying cornish hens in a turkey fryer. We will also discuss the benefits of deep frying cornish hens, as well as some tips and tricks to help you get the best results.

So if you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to cook cornish hens, be sure to give deep frying them a try!

Step Ingredients Instructions
1
  • 4 Cornish hens
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  1. Preheat the turkey fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Place the Cornish hens in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper.
  4. Dredge the Cornish hens in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
  5. Place the Cornish hens in the turkey fryer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  6. Remove the Cornish hens from the fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Introduction

Cornish hens are a delicious and versatile dish that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One of the most popular methods is to deep fry them in a turkey fryer. This method results in a crispy, golden brown exterior and a juicy, flavorful interior.

Deep frying cornish hens is a relatively simple process, but there are a few things you need to know in order to do it successfully. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to deep fry cornish hens in a turkey fryer.

We will also discuss the equipment and ingredients you will need, as well as some tips for making the best possible cornish hens.

Equipment and Ingredients

The following is a list of the equipment and ingredients you will need to deep fry cornish hens in a turkey fryer:

* Turkey fryer
* Cornish hens
* Vegetable oil
* Seasoning salt
* Cooking spray

Preparation

Before you can deep fry your cornish hens, you will need to prepare them. This involves rinsing them inside and out, patting them dry with paper towels, and seasoning them with salt and pepper. You can also spray the hens with cooking spray to help them brown more evenly.

Cooking

Once your cornish hens are prepared, you can begin cooking them. To do this, you will need to fill the turkey fryer with oil to the recommended level. Then, preheat the oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Once the oil is hot, carefully place the cornish hens in the fryer. Cook them for 10-12 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tips

Here are a few tips for making the best possible cornish hens:

* Use fresh cornish hens. Frozen cornish hens will not cook as evenly and will not be as flavorful.
* Pat the hens dry with paper towels before seasoning them. This will help the seasoning to adhere to the skin.
* Use a good quality vegetable oil. This will help to ensure that the hens cook evenly and do not taste greasy.
* Do not overcrowd the fryer. This will prevent the hens from cooking evenly.
* Cook the hens until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the safe internal temperature for poultry.

Conclusion

Deep frying cornish hens in a turkey fryer is a delicious and easy way to cook a delicious meal. By following the steps in this article, you can make perfectly cooked cornish hens that are sure to please everyone.

Here are some additional tips for deep frying cornish hens in a turkey fryer:

* If you are new to deep frying, it is a good idea to start with a small batch of cornish hens. This will help you to get a feel for the process and avoid making any mistakes.
* Once you have mastered the basics of deep frying, you can experiment with different seasonings and sauces. This is a great way to create your own unique flavor profiles.
* Deep fried cornish hens are a great party food. They are easy to eat and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces.

Enjoy!

3. Deep Frying

To deep fry Cornish hens in a turkey fryer, you will need:

* A turkey fryer
* Oil (enough to fill the fryer to the recommended level)
* Cornish hens
* Seasoning (such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder)

Instructions:

1. Fill the turkey fryer with oil to the recommended level.
2. Heat the oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Carefully lower the hens into the hot oil.
4. Fry the hens for 10-12 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Tips:

* Make sure to use a good quality oil that is safe for deep frying.
* Be careful when lowering the hens into the hot oil.
* Do not overcrowd the fryer.
* Fry the hens for the recommended amount of time.
* Remove the hens from the fryer and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
* Serve the hens immediately with your favorite sides.

4. Serving

To serve Cornish hens that have been deep fried in a turkey fryer, you will need:

* Cornish hens
* Your favorite sides (such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and corn on the cob)
* A serving platter

Instructions:

1. Remove the hens from the fryer and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
2. Serve the hens immediately with your favorite sides.

Deep frying Cornish hens in a turkey fryer is a delicious and easy way to cook them. The hens will be golden brown and crispy on the outside, and juicy and tender on the inside. They are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How do I deep fry Cornish hens in a turkey fryer?

1. Prepare the Cornish hens. Rinse the hens inside and out with cold water. Pat dry with paper towels.
2. Season the Cornish hens. Rub the hens inside and out with a mixture of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Set up the turkey fryer. Fill the fryer with enough oil to come halfway up the sides of the hens. Heat the oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Fry the Cornish hens. Carefully lower the hens into the hot oil. Fry for 10-12 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Remove the Cornish hens from the fryer. Use a slotted spoon to remove the hens from the hot oil. Place the hens on a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain.
6. Serve the Cornish hens. Serve the hens immediately, while they are still hot.

What is the best temperature to deep fry Cornish hens?

The best temperature to deep fry Cornish hens is 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that the hens cook evenly and reach a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

How long does it take to deep fry Cornish hens?

It takes about 10-12 minutes per side to deep fry Cornish hens. The total cooking time will depend on the size of the hens.

What oil should I use to deep fry Cornish hens?

The best oil to use for deep frying Cornish hens is a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola oil, vegetable oil, or peanut oil. Avoid using oils with low smoke points, such as olive oil, as they will smoke and burn at high temperatures.

How do I prevent the Cornish hens from sticking to the fryer basket?

To prevent the Cornish hens from sticking to the fryer basket, coat them in a thin layer of oil before frying. You can also use a non-stick fryer basket.

What should I do if the Cornish hens are overcooked?

If the Cornish hens are overcooked, they will be dry and tough. To avoid overcooking, check the internal temperature of the hens with a meat thermometer. The hens should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

What should I do if the Cornish hens are undercooked?

If the Cornish hens are undercooked, they will be pink and juicy. To cook the hens through, return them to the fryer and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.

How can I make sure the Cornish hens are cooked all the way through?

The best way to make sure the Cornish hens are cooked all the way through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, and the temperature should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

What are some tips for deep frying Cornish hens?

Here are some tips for deep frying Cornish hens:

* Use a good quality oil with a high smoke point.
* Coat the hens in a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking.
* Use a non-stick fryer basket.
* Check the internal temperature of the hens with a meat thermometer.
* Cook the hens until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Serve the hens immediately, while they are still hot.

deep frying cornish hens in a turkey fryer is a relatively simple process that can be completed in just a few steps. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a delicious and crispy meal that is sure to please everyone at your next gathering.

Here are a few key takeaways from this guide:

* Cornish hens are a small and versatile poultry that can be cooked in a variety of ways.
* Deep frying is a quick and easy way to cook cornish hens, and it results in a crispy and flavorful dish.
* When deep frying cornish hens, it is important to use a high-quality oil and to maintain the correct temperature.
* Cornish hens can be served with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, vegetables, and salad.

With a little practice, you can easily master the art of deep frying cornish hens in a turkey fryer. So what are you waiting for? Get started today and enjoy a delicious and crispy meal that everyone will love!

Author Profile

Mike Thompson
Mike Thompson
Hello, fellow turkey enthusiasts! I'm Mike Thompson, a proud resident of the picturesque state of Missouri, renowned for its thriving turkey population and favorable hunting conditions. For over a decade, I've roamed the woods, valleys, and peaks of our beautiful state, learning every nook, cranny, and secret that turkey hunting has to offer. My track record? Well, let's just say I've bagged more turkeys than there are days in November, and each hunt has added a story to my ever-growing book of experiences.

However, as much as I love the thrill of the hunt, what truly fuels my passion is the joy of sharing my knowledge with others. That's why I created this platform. This site is not just a testament to my journey but a beacon for all those who are looking to embark on their own turkey hunting adventures. Whether you're a beginner eager to get started or a seasoned pro seeking advanced tips, you'll find a wealth of information here.

From understanding turkey behavior, tracking techniques, and the best equipment to use, to the do's and don'ts of turkey hunting, this site is a comprehensive guide to all things turkey. So, strap on your boots, pick up your gear, and let's embark on a journey together into the world of turkey hunting. Welcome to my site, and happy hunting!