Equipment
Obviously, you will need a smoker. There are many different types of smokers such as wood, electric, charcoal, and propane, so different materials will be required depending on the type you have. Make sure your smoker is big enough to hold your bird and has enough space around your turkey to allow airflow. You'll also need a meat thermometer to check for proper cooking temperature. If you don’t have one, check out your local Do it Best store to find a high-quality smoker.
Steps to Smoking a Turkey
- Preheat the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F-250°F. Choose your wood chips (apple, cherry, or hickory are popular) based on the flavor you want to infuse.
- Prepare the Turkey: Clean the turkey and pat it dry. Season the cavity and the outside with herbs, spices, or a BBQ or cajun rub.
- Brine the Turkey: A brine is a high-concentration solution of salt in water that should be poured over the turkey about 24 hours beforehand for better flavor and moisture.
- Set the Turkey in the Smoker: Place the turkey directly on the smoker rack, ensuring there is enough space for airflow around the bird.
- Add Wood Chips: Add soaked wood chips to the smoker to start the smoking process. Replenish the chips as needed to maintain a steady smoke.
- Smoke the Turkey: Smoke the turkey for 30-40 minutes per pound until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the breast and thigh.
- Basting (Optional): Baste the turkey periodically with butter or oil for added moisture and flavor (skip this step if you’ve brined the turkey).
- Let the Turkey Rest: Once the turkey is done, remove it from the smoker and let it rest, loosely covered with foil, for 20-30 minutes before carving.
Turkey Side Dishes or Pairings
A great turkey deserves equally delicious side dishes. Pairing the right sides with each method of turkey cooking can take your meal to the next level. Here are some side dishes we recommend depending on your cooking method.
Baked Turkeys: classic pairings like stuffing, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce bring out the rich, roasted flavors of the turkey. Roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans with garlic butter also make perfect sides to balance the savory notes of the bird.
Fried Turkeys: Southern-style sides are a popular choice. Cornbread, collard greens, and macaroni and cheese complement the crispy, flavorful skin of the fried turkey. The richness of these sides pairs beautifully with the bold, spicy seasoning used in fried turkey preparations.
Smoked Turkey: Consider more sides like a smoked gouda mac and cheese, grilled corn, or a smoky bacon potato salad. These dishes complement the deep flavors of the smoked meat, creating a complete meal.
Now that you're equipped with this tasteful turkey knowledge, enjoy a hearty holiday meal with friends and family, laughs, and cheer. Let the tryptophan kick in as you doze off thankful for your triumphant Thanksgiving success. Also, check out our Pinterest page for some of our favorite turkey recipes.