Gentlemen, I have never used a smoker before but just picked up a new Masterbuilt electric model, new unused via Craigslist (I love bargains). I have confirmed that it works and did the prescribed "seasoning" of the smoker. Here is my question: Do I dare make a Thanksgiving turkey (maybe 15lbs or so) my FIRST smoking attempt? I've watched a bunch of videos and frankly it seems pretty idiot proof. Any words of wisdom? (or links to a good recipe for smoked turkey)
I have to add that I still have strong childhood memories of smoked turkey from a roadside smoke house in Florida in 1963. I'd love to recreate that or come even halfway close.
IT-it really is idiotproof with the Masterbuilt. Don't know what model you have, but it really is darn near impossible to mess up.
If you need a good resource for recipes, here is a good site:
Dadgum That's Good Recipes
Dadgum site recommends 30 minutes per pound at 225* or 18 minutes per pound at 275.
I also have Robb Walsh's book
Legends of Texas Barbeque. It's a great book, and has lots of history, stories and recipes. (I also have his Tex-Mex book as well.)
When I smoke a turkey, I use water, white wine, lemon and rosemary in the water pan. I smoke with hickory or applewood pellets. Mesquite is a bit strong for poultry. Walsh recommends (for a 12-13 pound bird, two hours breast side down at 275-300, then flip (breast up), baste with Italian Dressing, and cook for another two hours. After 4 hours, start checking the temp until it hits 160.
I tend to cool low and slow on the smoker, so I would go with 225*. The lower the temp, the less it dries out, and the more smokiness it absorbs.
