How to Cook a Turkey in Your RV

Traveling over the holidays can be fun but preparing the Thanksgiving feast becomes trickier in an RV kitchen. Below you'll find three great options for cooking a turkey in your RV this Thanksgiving.

1. Cooking a Turkey in an RV Oven

Your RV oven is small, but it should be able to fit a turkey that weighs less than 12 pounds. Be sure to measure the dimensions of your RV oven first to see how big the turkey can be.

You'll need a cooking stone for this method. You may also want to use a disposable aluminum pan that can bend to fit your oven and catch drippings.

Ingredients

• Turkey, less than 12 pounds (thawed)
• Seasoning (lemon-pepper, herbes de provence, sage, herbed butter, etc.)

Method

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees 30 minutes before cooking.
2. When ready to cook, turn temperature down to 350 degrees and place turkey in oven.
3. Cook for 3-3 1/2 hours, rotating every 15 minutes
4. When a thermometer, inserted into the thickest part of the thigh and breast, reads at least 165 degrees in each spot, and the juices run clear when pierced, the turkey is done.
5. After cooking, allow turkey to rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.

2. Use an Electric Roaster

It's an extra item to pack, but an electric roaster guarantees a great turkey. Plus, it'll free up your RV oven for making all the delicious sides.

Electric roasters can be purchased for $25-$50, and this Oster model is a fantastic choice that can accommodate turkeys up to 26 pounds.

Be sure to follow the included directions with your electric roaster and always use a thermometer to test the temperature. Remember, turkey needs to reach at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest parts of the meat with clear running juices to be considered safe!

3. Deep Fry Your Turkey

Deep-frying a turkey has become a popular, and unconventional, way to cook the Thanksgiving centerpiece. When done correctly, this method creates an irresistibly juicy turkey, while leaving the outside crispy and golden brown. Best of all, it's simple and requires no extra ingredients!

You should never attempt to deep fry inside your RV. Be sure to use a deep fryer or large pot outdoors, and a safe distance from your RV (or anyone else's RV). Propane stoves work perfectly for heating the oil if you're using a pot.

Ingredients

• One turkey, less than 15 pounds (thawed)
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Method

1. Preheat oil to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. The optimal temperature for deep-frying is 375 degrees Fahrenheit; if the temperature is not hot enough, the turkey will absorb excess oil and may taste greasy. Use a thermometer to ensure accuracy. The temperature of the oil will drop appropriately as the cold turkey is immersed.
2. Using oven mitts and long-handled utensils, CAREFULLY lower the turkey into the oil. The turkey should be totally immersed in the oil to ensure even cooking.
3. A 10-pound turkey takes approximately 35 minutes to cook. To check for doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the thigh. The optimum temperature is 170 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. At this point, remove your golden-brown turkey from the oil, ensuring that the oil is drained from the cavity. Place on a rack and cover with foil. Let the turkey stand for at least 20 minutes to allow it to finish cooking and to allow the juices to set.
5. Carve your turkey and serve immediately.

Cooking a turkey while RVing can be a challenge, but the results are well worth the effort. Be sure to plan ahead, prepare, and know the particulars of your chosen model.

Now the tough question arises, which method will you use to cook your Thanksgiving turkey? Share this post on Facebook or Twitter, then tag Sun RV Resorts to let us know!  

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