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Air fryer instruction manuals will often list the recommended sizes and capacities for different foods if you’re unsure.
Step-by-step guide
Step 1:Begin by thoroughly thawing the turkey and removing any giblets.
Step 2:Preheat the air fryer to approximately 350F.
Step 3:Pat the turkey dry to remove excess moisture.
Step 4:Season the turkey both inside and out with your choice of herbs and spices.
Ideally, the thigh should be 180F and the breast should measure 170F.
This helps prevent the outside from cooking too quickly while the inside remains undercooked.
This is because the more uniform the shape, the more consistent the cooking will be.
Trussing also makes it easier to get the turkey in and out of the air fryer.
To maximize flavor, apply a seasoning or dry rub all over the bird.
During cooking
Keeping the turkey moist and tender is key.
Basting the turkey periodically with its juices or a marinade can help.
This not only adds moisture but also infuses flavor from the inside out.
Elsewhere, covering the breast with foil during part of the cooking process can prevent it from drying out.
Regular temperature checks help prevent overcooking, ensuring the turkey remains juicy and tender.
After cooking
Once your turkey is cooked, you must let it rest before carving.
This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that every slice is moist and flavorful.
A good rule of thumb is to let the turkey rest for about 20 minutes.
During this time, you’re free to tent the turkey loosely with foil to keep it warm.
This, in turn, can cut down on fat and calories.
Additionally, air frying preserves the turkey’s natural flavors and nutrients better than deep frying.
This crispiness can be hard to achieve with other cooking methods without overcooking the meat.
This can all be a bit cumbersome and requires constant monitoring.
Finding the right temperature and cooking time can be a challenge.
