Delish editors handpick every product we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.
Disney’s enormous turkey legs are among the most well-liked concessions at the park, right up there with Mickey-shaped pretzels and Gastons Tavern’s apple juice “brews.” And as such, theres a lot of speculation . like how much they weigh and what kind of bird theyre actually made from. We got down to the meat of the matter, and discovered nine crazy facts about the gigantic snack.
Ah, the Disney jumbo turkey leg. A culinary icon, a symbol of park indulgence, and a source of endless fascination and debate. Whether you love them or hate them, there’s no denying that these massive meaty morsels are a staple of the Disney experience.
But what exactly are these turkey legs? Where did they come from? And are they really made of emu? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the history, facts, and controversies surrounding Disney’s jumbo turkey legs, answering all your burning questions.
A Brief History of the Jumbo Turkey Leg
The jumbo turkey leg made its debut at Walt Disney World in the 1980s, first appearing at the Big Al stand in Frontierland. It quickly became a popular snack, attracting attention for its sheer size and undeniable messiness
Over the years, the turkey leg has become synonymous with Disney parks, appearing in all six parks across the globe. It’s even spawned a cult following, with fans sporting turkey leg-themed merchandise and even creating their own copycat recipes
The Truth About the Emu Rumors
One of the most persistent rumors surrounding the turkey leg is that it’s not actually made of turkey, but rather emu. This rumor gained traction when actor Zachary Levy claimed on Conan that his friends who worked at Disneyland told him the legs were emu.
However Disney has repeatedly denied this rumor, and Snopes has debunked it as well. The truth is the jumbo turkey leg is indeed made of turkey, albeit a specially bred variety that produces larger legs.
The Nutritional Breakdown: A Feast for the Brave
The jumbo turkey leg is not for the faint of heart. This colossal snack packs a whopping 1,093 calories, 54 grams of fat, and 5,284 milligrams of sodium. It’s essentially a “Weight Gain 4000” in edible form.
While Disney has tried to promote the turkey leg as a healthy option, it’s important to be aware of its nutritional content and consume it in moderation.
The Taste: Love It or Hate It
The taste of the jumbo turkey leg is a matter of personal preference. Some find it smoky, juicy, and flavorful, while others find it dry, salty, and reminiscent of ham.
The curing process, which involves soaking the legs in a salt solution, contributes to the salty flavor and ham-like texture.
The Verdict: A Disney Must-Try or a Gimmicky Mess?
The jumbo turkey leg is a unique and undeniably memorable Disney experience. Whether you love it or hate it, it’s a must-try for any park visitor who wants to embrace the full Disney indulgence.
Just be prepared for the mess, the saltiness, and the sheer size of this colossal snack. And remember, moderation is key when it comes to this calorie-laden treat.
Additional Resources:
- Disney Tourist Blog: The Disney Jumbo Turkey Leg Review
- Delish: 9 Things You Never Knew About Disney’s Giant Turkey Legs
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Q: How much does a jumbo turkey leg cost?
- A: The price varies depending on the park, but it typically costs around $12.50.
- Q: How many calories are in a jumbo turkey leg?
- A: A jumbo turkey leg contains approximately 1,093 calories.
- Q: Are the turkey legs really made of emu?
- A: No, the turkey legs are made of turkey, not emu.
- Q: Where can I find a jumbo turkey leg?
- A: Jumbo turkey legs are available at various food stands throughout all six Disney parks.
The jumbo turkey leg is a Disney icon, a symbol of park indulgence, and a source of endless fascination. Whether you love it or hate it, there’s no denying that this massive meaty morsel is a must-try for any Disney park visitor. So, grab a napkin, brace yourself for the mess, and get ready to experience the legend of the Disney jumbo turkey leg.
Copycat recipes are all over the internet.
Google it. Search for it on Pinterest. Youll find hundreds.
The meat’s not exactly a health food.
Disney doesnt reveal specific nutrition information, but a 2013 New York Times article stated the jumbo turkey legs have 720 calories and 36 grams of fat. But theres a good chance youll walk enough at the park to burn that many calories.