Southern fried turkey

Southern fried turkey is a popular dish in the American South, typically prepared by deep-frying a whole turkey in a large pot of oil, often seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices. It's known for its crispy, golden-brown skin and juicy, flavorful meat, making it a festive centerpiece for holidays like Thanksgiving.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is high in protein and fat due to the turkey and frying oil, with minimal carbohydrates unless a breading is used. A typical serving (about 3-4 ounces) can range from 250 to 400 calories, depending on the cut and preparation method.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	420 kcal
Protein	42 g
Carbs	8 g
Fat	24 g
Fiber	0 g
Sugar	1 g
Sodium	650 mg
Potassium	380 mg
Phosphorus	320 mg
Niacin (B3)	12 mg
Vitamin B6	0.9 mg
Vitamin B12	0.6 mcg
Selenium	36 mcg
Iron	2.1 mg
Zinc	3.5 mg

Per 1 piece (breast, skin-on, approx. 170 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, frying a turkey is a cherished tradition in Southern U.S. cuisine, often associated with communal gatherings and outdoor cooking. Nutritionally, it provides a good source of lean protein and essential nutrients like B vitamins and selenium, though the frying process adds significant fat content.