Through autumn and the beginning of winter, more and more people start to think about Christmas. When dining, the most crucial factors to think about are where we’re going to eat, who we’re dining with, and most importantly, what kind of turkey we’re eating. A lot of people are unaware that there are two main types of turkey: bronze and white. We’ll cover everything you need to know about what makes each type of turkey distinct and which is ideal for your holiday gatherings, but first, let’s talk about what makes them different.
The festive season is upon us, and with it comes the age-old question: bronze or white turkey? Both are delicious, but they have distinct differences in appearance, taste, and even personality. Let’s dive into the world of turkeys and help you choose the perfect bird for your holiday feast
Appearance
- Bronze turkeys: These majestic birds sport a stunning plumage of black and metallic feathers, giving them a unique bronze sheen. They resemble their wild American ancestors, with a leaner build and longer legs.
- White turkeys: As the name suggests, these turkeys have snow-white feathers, making them the picture-perfect centerpiece for any Christmas table. They have broader breasts and a more compact build compared to their bronze counterparts.
Taste
- Bronze turkeys: These birds boast a richer, gamier flavor that some describe as reminiscent of wild turkey. Their meat is slightly tougher than white turkey but retains more moisture, making it ideal for slow roasting.
- White turkeys: Known for their succulent and subtly sweet flavor, white turkeys are the go-to choice for those who prefer a milder taste. Their meat is tender and juicy, with generous portions of both white and dark meat.
Personality
- Bronze turkeys: These active birds are curious and enjoy exploring their surroundings. They are known for their intelligence and can even be trained to perform tricks.
- White turkeys: While not as energetic as their bronze cousins, white turkeys are still friendly and inquisitive. They are generally calm and docile, making them a good choice for families with children.
Which Turkey is Right for You?
The choice between bronze and white turkey ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you’re looking for a bird with a rich, traditional flavor and don’t mind a bit of chewiness then the bronze turkey is a fantastic option. However if you prefer a milder taste and juicy, tender meat, the white turkey is the perfect choice.
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
- For the adventurous eater: Bronze turkey
- For the traditionalist: Bronze turkey
- For the health-conscious: White turkey
- For the crowd-pleaser: White turkey
- For the budget-conscious: White turkey
How Much Turkey Do I Need?
The amount of turkey you need depends on the number of guests you’re expecting. Here’s a handy guide from John Howe Turkeys:
- 4-6 people: 4.0 kg
- 6-8 people: 5.0 kg
- 8-10 people: 6.0 kg
- 10-12 people: 7.0 kg
- 12-14 people: 8.0 kg
- 14-16 people: 9.0 kg
- 16-18 people: 10.0 kg
- 18-20 people: 11.0 kg
- 20-22 people: 12.0 kg
Ordering Your Free-Range Turkey
John Howe Turkeys is a family-run business dedicated to providing succulent free-range turkeys across the UK Their website offers a wide range of turkey options, from crowns to whole birds, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your Christmas dinner If you need help choosing the right turkey, don’t hesitate to contact their friendly team for expert advice.
Choosing a free-range turkey from John Howe Turkeys ensures a tasty and moral holiday feast, whether you go for the bronze or white variety. So, gather your loved ones, turn on the Christmas music, and prepare to have a feast that will be remembered, featuring the ideal turkey as the focal point.
What is the difference between Bronze Turkeys and White Turkeys?
Bronze turkeys are more akin to wild turkeys found in North America in terms of flavor and appearance, and we go to great lengths to replicate their natural growth habitat so that they reach optimal development. Their unusual color gives them a bronze tone in the sunlight, often appearing black and metallic.
White turkeys have wider breasts and have only white feathers. They are typically reared in a barn, however, we raise all our turkeys’ completely free range.
Choosing Bronze or White Turkey for Christmas
The breed of turkey you choose for Christmas or thanksgiving is completely dependent on your preference. White turkeys are great for catering to white and dark meat lovers as they are slightly more cost-effective. Should you be drawn to the richer taste of the bronze turkey, you won’t be disappointed by its exceptional flavor and texture. However, white turkey might be your best option if you’re only going to eat white meat because brown meat tastes different from white meat more noticeably.
We have a selection of turkey that will delight you and your guests during this festive season. From turkey crowns to full turkeys, we’ve got you covered!.
HFG Farm Animal Spotlight: Broad Breasted White Turkey *TURKEY WEEK*
FAQ
Are White turkeys good eating?
What is the difference between white and brown turkeys?
What is the difference between a white turkey and bronze?
What is white turkey meat?
What is a white turkey?
They are white on color with a large frame and white skin. These birds have small and short bones that are covered in muscles and fat. Broad Breasted White turkeys are a cross of Broad breasted bronze and White Holland. The Beltsville White turkeys are another common breed among the white turkey.
Why are Broad Breasted White turkeys so popular?
It’s no secret why these turkeys are the leading breed for the commercial meat industry. On top of their fast rate of growth, Broad Breasted Whites produce more meat than any other turkey breed. They also produce a large amount of sought after breast meat, a well-loved favorite of many people. 4. Egg Production
How much does a Broad Breasted White turkey weigh?
The Broad Breasted White turkeys are a very popular breed of turkey in commercial farming. They have a high feed to meat conversion ratio reaching maturity quickly than other common breeds. These birds are ready for market after a period of 16 weeks. At this time these birds can weigh 13kgs.
Are Broad Breasted White turkeys overweight?
Today the Broad Breasted White turkeys are grown in large, fully automated grow-out barns, which may house as many as 10,000 birds. They generally can’t flight and prone to health problems associated with being overweight, because of their size (due to excess muscle).