The amount of meat on a turkey varies depending on the size and type of turkey, but generally, you can expect to get about 40% of the turkey’s weight in edible meat This means that an 8-pound turkey will yield about 32 pounds of meat, while a 20-pound turkey will yield about 8 pounds of meat.
Here is a breakdown of the different cuts of meat on a turkey and their approximate weights:
- Breast: The breast is the largest and most popular cut of meat on a turkey. It can be roasted whole, sliced, or ground into turkey burgers. A typical turkey breast weighs between 2 and 4 pounds.
- Thighs: The thighs are the second-largest cut of meat on a turkey. They can be roasted, grilled, or braised. A typical turkey thigh weighs between 1 and 2 pounds.
- Drumsticks: The drumsticks are the third-largest cut of meat on a turkey. They can be roasted, grilled, or fried. A typical turkey drumstick weighs between 1 and 1.5 pounds.
- Wings: The wings are the smallest cut of meat on a turkey. They can be roasted, grilled, or fried. A typical turkey wing weighs between 0.5 and 1 pound.
In addition to the edible meat, there are also a number of bones and other inedible parts on a turkey. These include:
- Neck: The neck is a long, thin bone that is usually removed before cooking.
- Giblets: The giblets are the internal organs of the turkey, including the heart, liver, and gizzard. They can be cooked and eaten, but they are often discarded.
- Back: The back is a bony part of the turkey that is usually not eaten.
- Tail: The tail is a small, bony part of the turkey that is usually not eaten.
When you are buying a turkey, it is important to consider how much meat you will need and how many people you will be feeding If you are only feeding a few people, you may want to buy a smaller turkey or just a turkey breast. If you are feeding a large group of people, you will need to buy a larger turkey.
Here are some tips for getting the most meat off of a turkey:
- Choose a fresh or frozen turkey that is free of any bruises or damage.
- Thaw the turkey completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
- Cook the turkey to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Let the turkey rest for at least 15 minutes before carving.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you get the most meat off of your turkey and that it is cooked safely and deliciously.
Additional Resources
- Turkey: How Much Meat? – Talk of The Villages Florida
- How to Cook a Turkey – USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service
- Turkey Nutrition Facts – USDA National Nutrient Database
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a turkey cost?
The price of a turkey varies depending on the size, type, and time of year. Generally, you can expect to pay between $1 and $3 per pound for a fresh turkey. Frozen turkeys are typically cheaper, but they may not be as flavorful.
- What is the best way to cook a turkey?
There are many different ways to cook a turkey, but the most popular methods are roasting, grilling, and frying. Roasting is the most traditional method, and it is a good option for beginners. Grilling is a faster method, and it can give the turkey a smoky flavor. Frying is the most difficult method, but it can produce the most flavorful turkey.
- What should I do with the leftover turkey?
Leftover turkey can be used in a variety of dishes, such as sandwiches, soups, and stews. It can also be frozen and reheated later.