Turkey

Turkey is a versatile and lean poultry that is particularly popular in North American cuisine, especially during festive seasons like Thanksgiving and Christmas. While it is available year-round, fresh turkey is most abundant in the fall and early winter. It is used in a variety of culinary applications, from roasting whole for holiday meals to being ground for burgers or sautéed in stir-fries. Turkey is also a staple in deli meats and can be found smoked, cured, or sliced for sandwiches and salads.

Turkey Synonyms

Wild turkey
domestic turkey

Turkey Substitutes

Ground Beef

Different Forms/Types of Turkey

Deli Turkey

Turkey breast that has been cooked, seasoned, and sliced, commonly used in sandwiches and salads.

Whole Turkey

A complete, unprocessed turkey often sold fresh or frozen, ideal for roasting for traditional holiday meals or large gatherings.

Ground Turkey

Turkey meat that has been ground, often used as a healthier substitute for ground beef in recipes like burgers, meatballs, and tacos.

Smoked Turkey

Whole turkey or turkey parts that have been smoked, imparting a distinctive smoky flavor, often pre-cooked and ready to eat.

Turkey Breast

The breast portion of the turkey, available bone-in or boneless, and is a leaner cut suitable for quicker cooking methods.

Turkey Cutlets

Thin slices of turkey breast meat, perfect for quick sautéing or grilling.

How to Choose Turkey

When selecting a whole turkey, look for one with a well-rounded breast and no broken skin or bones. For frozen turkeys, ensure there is no freezer burn. When buying turkey breast or cutlets, the meat should be pinkish in color and firm to the touch. For ground turkey, choose packages with little to no excess liquid and a good ratio of white to dark meat as per your preference. Always check sell-by dates and opt for brands that practice responsible farming methods.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Turkey

Turkey is a versatile and lean protein that requires careful cooking to ensure it remains moist and flavorful. For intermediate and expert home cooks, it's important to note that brining can enhance the juiciness of turkey meat, especially the breast which tends to dry out. A dry brine or wet brine overnight can make a significant difference. Additionally, cooking turkey at a consistent temperature and using a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F or 74°C in the thickest part) is crucial. Resting the turkey after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist cut when sliced. For those looking to add depth to their turkey dishes, consider incorporating a rub or glaze to add layers of flavor.

Shelf Life of Turkey

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Recommended Brands for Turkey

deli turkey: Boar's Head

whole turkey: Butterball

ground turkey: Shady Brook Farms

smoked turkey: HoneySuckle White

turkey breast: Jennie-O

Cooking Techniques for Turkey

Grilling: Grilling turkey imparts a smoky flavor and can be a quicker method than roasting. It's best to use indirect heat for a whole turkey or direct heat for smaller cuts. Keep the lid closed to maintain a consistent temperature and prevent flare-ups.

Roasting: The most traditional method for cooking turkey, roasting involves cooking the bird in an oven at a consistent temperature. To prevent dryness, baste the turkey with its own juices or a marinade throughout the cooking process. Covering the breast with foil can also help manage the cooking rate.

Sous Vide: For the culinary enthusiast, sous vide cooking allows for precise temperature control, resulting in a turkey that's evenly cooked and exceptionally moist. The turkey is vacuum-sealed and cooked in a water bath at a low temperature for an extended period before being finished with a quick sear or roast for a crispy skin.

Popular Turkey Recipes

Herb-Roasted Turkey
Turkey Chili
Smoked Turkey Breast

Turkey Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 1.66 g
fiber: 0 g
sugar: 0 g
protein: 17.07 g
calories: 104 kcal
carbohydrates: 0 g

Flavor Combinations

Turkey's mild flavor makes it a great canvas for a variety of seasonings and accompaniments. It pairs well with traditional herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary. Fruits such as cranberries, apples, and citrus offer a sweet contrast, while root vegetables like carrots, onions, and potatoes complement its savory notes. For a richer profile, incorporate umami-rich ingredients like mushrooms or bacon. When it comes to spices, a touch of paprika, garlic, or cumin can add warmth and complexity to turkey dishes.

Allergen Information

Turkey is not a common allergen, but as with any food, individuals can develop an allergy. Symptoms of a turkey allergy may include hives, swelling, stomach pain, vomiting, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis. Those with a known allergy should avoid turkey and products containing turkey protein.

Ingredient Comparisons

Ground Beef vs Turkey