Ingredients
Method
Thaw the Turkey:
- Place the frozen turkey in the fridge for 3 days for a slow thaw.
- After 3 days, move it to a room temperature environment for 18-24 hours to complete thawing.
- Remove the turkey from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.
Spatchcock the Turkey:
- Use kitchen shears or a knife to cut out the backbone of the turkey.
- Flip the turkey over so it's breast-side up and press down on the breastbone to crack it and flatten the turkey.
Prepare the Cajun Injection:
- In a bowl, mix 1 stick of melted butter, 1 cup chicken broth, 1/2 lager beer, 1/4 cup hot sauce, juice of 1 lemon, and 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning.
- Whisk the mixture thoroughly.
- Use a kitchen syringe to inject this mixture into the turkey's breasts, thighs, drums, and legs.
Season the Turkey:
- Dry the turkey thoroughly with paper towels.
- Flip the turkey and season the underside with Cajun seasoning.
- Flip it back over and season the skin side with Cajun seasoning.
Smoke the Turkey:
- Preheat the smoker to 275 degrees Fahrenheit with pecan wood chunks.
- Smoke the turkey for 20-25 minutes per pound. (Adjust the time based on the size of your turkey.)
- Place a drip pan underneath the turkey to catch drippings.
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 158 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part of the breast.
- Remove the turkey from the smoker and wrap it in foil.
- Let the turkey rest for 20-25 minutes.
Carve and Serve:
- Break down the turkey into quarters.
- Carve the turkey and serve.