Cajun Deep Fried Turkey

Ingredients:

• 1 12-16 lb Whole Wild Turkey
• 1/3 cup Red Wine Vinegar
• 1/3 cup Olive Oil
• 1/3 cup Dry sherry
• 6 tsp Garlic powder
• 5 tsp Lemon pepper
• 5 tsp Onion powder
• 2-3 tsp Cayenne Pepper
• 2 tsp paprika, 1 tsp cumin
• 2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp basil
• 5 gallons Peanut oil
  

Directions:

1. Blend all the ingredients well and let stand 2 hours. Strain marinade and place in an injection needle. Inject the marinade into all parts of the bird.
2. Place the bird in a large plastic bag and allow the marinade to disperse throughout the bird for at least 2 hours. Turn the bag and massage the bird occasionally.
3. Preheat the cooking oil to 350-375 in a kettle large enough to hold the entire bird. Tie the legs of the bird together with wire. (It helps hold the bird together and provides a way to lift it in and out of the oil.)
4. Carefully place the bird into the oil and deep fry 3-1/2 to 4 minutes per pound.
5. You can try using a sturdy broomstick, or even an oar to lift the bird.