How to Cook a Thanksgiving Turkey in Your RV

Traveling over the holidays can be a delightful experience, but preparing the Thanksgiving feast in an RV kitchen presents its own unique challenges. Below are three great options for cooking your turkey while RVing this Turkey Day.

Ways to Cook Your Turkey While RVing

1. Cooking a Turkey in an RV Oven

Although your RV oven may be small, it can accommodate a turkey weighing less than 12 pounds. Before cooking, measure your oven's dimensions to ensure your turkey will fit.

For this method, you'll need a cooking stone and a disposable aluminum pan to catch drippings.

Ingredients:

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

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) 30 minutes before cooking.
2. Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and place the turkey in the oven.
3. Cook for 3 to 3.5 hours, rotating every 15 minutes.
4. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C) in the thickest parts of the thigh and breast, and that juices run clear.
5. Allow the turkey to rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.

2. Use an Electric Roaster

Packing an electric roaster is an excellent way to guarantee a juicy turkey. This frees up your RV oven for preparing delicious side dishes.

Electric roasters typically cost between $25-$50 and can accommodate turkeys up to 26 pounds. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and use a meat thermometer for best results.

3. Deep Fry Your Turkey

Deep-frying has become a popular and unconventional way to cook your Thanksgiving turkey. When done correctly, this method produces a juicy turkey with a crispy, golden-brown exterior.

Important: Never deep fry indoors. Use a deep fryer or large pot outdoors, safely distanced from your RV.

Ingredients:

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

Directions:

1. Preheat the oil to 400°F (204°C). The optimal frying temperature is 375°F (190°C). A thermometer is essential for accuracy.
2. Carefully lower the turkey into the oil using long-handled utensils.
3. A 10-pound turkey will take about 35 minutes to cook. Check for doneness with a thermometer, aiming for an internal temperature of 170°F (77°C) in the thigh.
4. Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oil and drain it. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes, covered with foil, to allow the juices to set.
5. Carve your turkey and serve immediately.

Conclusion

Cooking a Thanksgiving turkey while RVing can be challenging, but the results are well worth the effort. Plan ahead, prepare your equipment, and choose the method that works best for your RV kitchen.

Which method will you use to cook your Thanksgiving turkey? Share your thoughts on social media and tag Sun Outdoors to let us know!

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