How to Smoke a Turkey Two Ways: Prepare the juiciest smoked turkey you’ve ever had! Cut into pieces for easy smoking. Packed with delicious flavor, this truly is not only the best smoked turkey we’ve ever had but it beats ALL the different turkeys we have had in the past.
When the temperature inside of the BBQ reaches 200 degrees F, open the top and arrange the turkey pieces on the grill rack. Close the top and start the smoking process. Do not open the top unless absolutely necessary for at least 45 minutes.
TIPS FOR SMOKING A WHOLE BIRD
There are so many sizes and kinds of smokers. These tips are based from the two smokers I have used. A small upright and a larger Traeger.
- Fill the cavity of the bird with a couple apples, a large white onion, 3 celery stalks, all cut into chunks.
- Use a butter injection (recipe below)
- Smoking time will vary between 2 1/2 hours to 3 hours
- FOR A BETTER SMOKE ON THE BIRD, cook low and slow at 225° for 8 hours (I used a 16 pound bird)
BUTTER INJECTION RECIPE:
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup turkey or chicken broth
1 tablespoon hot sauce
1 teaspoon granulated garlic
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
Melt butter in a sauce pan, add the chicken broth, hot sauce, garlic and Cajun seasoning. Whisk together, bring to a boil. Take off the heat to completely cool. Inject the breast at 3 to 4 locations on each side and do the same for the legs and thighs.
Turkey Gravy Every good turkey needs a good gravy and I have just what you need. Using the juices from a smoked turkey to make a gravy can be tricky. I’ve tried it and the smoky flavor was way too strong. So, I came up with a way to make turkey gravy without the drippings! It’s delicious and your guests will never know or care that you didn’t use turkey drippings! Click here for the recipe—->>>>
HOW PROPERLY THAW A TURKEY: ALWAYS THAW A TURKEY IN THE REFRIGERATOR. 24 HOURS PER 4-5 POUNDS (EXAMPLE: 4 DAYS FOR A 20 POUND TURKEY)
MAPLE GLAZED TURKEY Pieces Smoked On The Weber Kettle
FAQ
Should you split a turkey to smoke it?
Can I cut my turkey in half before smoking?
What is the danger zone when smoking a turkey?
How do you keep a turkey moist when smoking?
Can you smoke a Turkey?
Smoking a turkey can be a challenging, as there are many things that can go wrong. The key to success is to keep the meat moist and avoid the common pitfalls of soft, rubbery skin and dryness. These problems can be avoided by following a few basic techniques and avoiding certain practices.
Can one have turkey and carrots?
Eating turkey and carrots is part of healthy habits. The turkey has meat like chicken and is another healthy poultry option. Carrots are rich in carotenoids, it is a source of vitamin A, fiber, potassium and vitamin B3.
Should I Smoke a cut up Turkey?
Continue smoking the leg quarters and wings until they reach the temperature you prefer. I like the dark meat to reach 175-180. It’s much more tender, and has better flavor, in my opinion. Smoking a cut up turkey versus one that’s whole; the benefits are numerous. Cut up turkey cooks quicker, and the breast can be removed when prefectly done.
Can you smoke a Turkey with wood chips?
Ensure you have plenty of propane, gas, pellets, or wood prior to smoking the turkey. You do not want to run out while you are in the middle of the smoking process. I recommend using apple, cherry, or hickory wood chips for smoking a turkey.