Are you a fan of crispy, juicy, and flavorful fried chicken? Well, brace yourself because we’re about to take your taste buds on an epic journey with the ultimate fried turkey legs recipe! These mouthwatering drumsticks are the perfect addition to any festive gathering or a simple backyard barbecue. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this crave-worthy dish that’s sure to become a new favorite!
Why Fry Turkey Legs?
Fried turkey legs are a delicious and satisfying alternative to traditional roasted or smoked turkey. Here are a few reasons why you should give this recipe a try:
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of a buttermilk marinade and a perfectly seasoned coating creates an explosion of savory goodness in every bite.
- Crispy Texture: The deep-frying process ensures a crispy, crunchy exterior that gives way to tender, juicy meat inside.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving feast or a casual get-together, fried turkey legs are sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.
- Convenience: While frying a whole turkey can be daunting, tackling just the legs is a more manageable and less intimidating task.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients:
- 6 turkey drumsticks (about 4 1/2 pounds total)
- 1 quart buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Vegetable oil for deep-frying
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking!
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Marinate the Turkey Legs: In a large bowl or resealable plastic bag, combine the buttermilk, 1 tablespoon of paprika, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1 tablespoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Add the turkey drumsticks and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to overnight.
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Prepare the Frying Station: Preheat a tabletop deep-fryer or fill a large, wide pot with 3 inches of oil, and heat the oil to 365°F (185°C). Preheat the oven to 200°F (93°C). Line a rimmed baking pan with paper towels and place a wire rack on top.
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Make the Seasoned Flour Mixture: In a large paper grocery bag, combine the flour with the remaining 1 tablespoon of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of cayenne, as well as 2 1/2 teaspoons of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
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Coat the Turkey Legs: Pat the marinated turkey legs dry and add them to the bag with the seasoned flour mixture. Fold the top of the bag to seal, and shake vigorously to coat the turkey legs evenly.
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Fry the Turkey Legs: Remove the coated turkey legs from the flour and shake off any excess. Fry the turkey legs in batches, turning occasionally, until they are deep golden brown, crispy, and cooked through (an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the meat, avoiding bone, should register at least 165°F (74°C)), about 16 minutes per batch. Transfer the fried turkey legs to the prepared baking pan and keep them warm in the oven while frying the remaining drumsticks. Return the oil to 365°F (185°C) between batches.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once all the turkey legs are fried, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot and enjoy the crunch and flavor of these delectable fried turkey legs!
Tips and Tricks
To ensure your fried turkey legs turn out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips and tricks:
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Investing in a reliable meat thermometer is crucial for ensuring your turkey legs are cooked through without drying them out.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at the correct temperature is key to achieving a perfectly crispy exterior. Use a deep-frying thermometer or a clip-on thermometer to monitor the oil temperature throughout the frying process.
- Work in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the oil, as this can cause the temperature to drop and result in soggy, greasy turkey legs. Fry the drumsticks in small batches for best results.
- Let the Turkey Rest: After frying, let the turkey legs rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum moisture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Fried turkey legs are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Thanksgiving Feast: Serve these crispy drumsticks alongside traditional Thanksgiving sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce for a delicious twist on the classic holiday meal.
- Picnic or Barbecue: Pack these fried turkey legs in a picnic basket or serve them at your next backyard barbecue for a crowd-pleasing main dish.
- Game Day Snacks: Cut the fried turkey legs into smaller pieces and serve them as a tasty appetizer or finger food for game day gatherings.
- Dipping Sauces: Elevate the flavor by offering a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
No matter how you choose to serve them, these fried turkey legs are sure to be a hit with family and friends alike!
Conclusion
Fried turkey legs are a delightful and indulgent treat that combine the best of crispy fried chicken and juicy turkey. With the perfect blend of spices and a buttermilk marinade, these drumsticks are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So, fire up your deep-fryer, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the ultimate fried turkey legs recipe. Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!