Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association Discusses Grilled, Smoked and Fried Turkeys

FOOD AND BEVERAGE CLOSE-UP-3 November 2008-Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association Discusses Grilled, Smoked and Fried Turkeys(C)2008 - CloseUpMedia - newsdesk@closeupmedia.com

"As the popularity of year-round outdoor cooking grows, so does our appetite to try new techniques and recipes -- even for Thanksgiving," said Leslie Wheeler, HPBA Communications Director. "This holiday, add a twist to your tradition and head outside to prepare your Thanksgiving feast while also enjoying fall's cooler temperatures that are ideal for outdoor cooking."((Distributed via M2 Communications Ltd - http://www.m2.com))- Have a food thermometer handy to measure the internal temperature of the bird; the temperature should be 165 degrees F to 170 degrees F in the breast and 175 degrees F to 180 degrees F in the thigh.((Comments on this story may be sent to newsdesk@closeupmedia.com))Whether consumers plan to grill, smoke or fry this year's whole turkey or turkey breast, HPBA and the National Turkey Federation (NTF) offer preparation and cooking tips to ensure a safe and delicious Thanksgiving meal.- Stock up on enough charcoal, propane, oil or wood chips needed to cook the meal.- Check to make sure the grill, smoker or fryer is in working order. Be sure to read the owner's manual for safety precautions.- Purchase a whole turkey according to the weight recommendations in your grill's, smoker's or fryer's owner's manual.According to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA), turkeys can be fried in less than an hour, smoked over low heat for several hours or even cooked on a grill -- each option offers a mouthwatering meal packed with juicy flavor and crispy taste.Outdoor cooking times depend on many factors: the size and shape of the turkey, the distance from the heat and the outside air temperature. Allow more time on cold or windy days and at high altitudes. Allow less time in very hot weather. Also:- Brine the turkey for increased flavor and moisture.Each Thanksgiving, many consumers opt for a holiday turkey cooked on the grill, smoker or fryer, forgoing the usual oven and stove-top feast.- Thaw the turkey completely and pat it dry. Cook the bird un-stuffed.

((Distributed via M2 Communications Ltd - http://www.m2.com))