A Guide To Making Smoked Turkey With An Oklahoma Joe's Smoker

A Guide To Making Smoked Turkey With An Oklahoma Joe's Smoker

Smoked turkey is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as part of a holiday meal or as a regular dinner. It is a great way to enjoy turkey in a different way, and Oklahoma Joe's smokers are a great choice for smoking the bird. Whether you are a novice or an experienced smoker, this guide will help you make a delicious smoked turkey with an Oklahoma Joe's smoker.

Choosing and Preparing the Turkey

When selecting your turkey, you'll want to make sure you choose one that is fresh. You should also make sure that it is of a size that will fit in your smoker. If necessary, you can cut the turkey in half to make it fit. Once you have selected your turkey, you'll need to prepare it for smoking. Start by removing the giblets and neck from the cavity. Rinse the turkey, inside and out, with cold water. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. You can then rub the turkey with a dry rub or marinade, if desired.

Smoking the Turkey

Once your turkey is prepped, you're ready to begin smoking. Start by preheating your Oklahoma Joe's smoker to 250°F. You can use either charcoal or wood chips to fuel the smoker. If using wood chips, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before adding them to the smoker. Once the smoker is preheated, place the turkey inside and close the lid. Smoke the turkey for approximately 2 hours per pound, or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F.

Adding Flavor

You can add flavor to your turkey by adding wood chips or chunks to the smoker. Hickory and apple are both popular choices for smoking turkey. You can also spritz the turkey with a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water every 45 minutes or so. This will help keep the turkey moist while adding flavor to the meat.

Resting the Turkey

Once the turkey is cooked, it's important to let it rest before carving. Remove the turkey from the smoker and let it rest, covered, for at least 15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful turkey.

Carving the Turkey

When you're ready to carve the turkey, you'll want to make sure you have a sharp knife. Start by cutting off the legs and wings, then carve the breast meat from the carcass. You can then slice the breast meat into thin slices. For the thighs and drumsticks, you'll want to remove the meat from the bone and then slice it into thin strips.

Reheating the Turkey

If you have any leftover turkey, you can easily reheat it in the oven or in a slow cooker. Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the turkey in a baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the turkey is heated through. If using a slow cooker, add the turkey to the slow cooker and heat on low for 2-3 hours, or until the turkey is heated through.

Storing the Leftovers

If you have any leftover turkey, you'll want to store it in an airtight container or a resealable bag. You can store the turkey in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Be sure to date the containers or bags so you know when you stored the turkey.

Conclusion

Smoked turkey is a delicious and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as part of a holiday meal or as a regular dinner. With an Oklahoma Joe's smoker, you can easily create a delicious smoked turkey. Just be sure to choose a fresh turkey, prepare it properly, and smoke it at the correct temperature. With a little bit of patience, you'll be able to create a delicious smoked turkey that your family and friends will love.