The holidays are quickly approaching, so now is the ideal time to consider the kind of turkey you want to serve. What kind of food is it going to be—fresh or frozen, free-run or kosher, butterballs that have been flattened or cut in half, roasts or turkey rolls, and what on earth is a turducken?
Don’t worry, we’re here to help. We’ll outline the various varieties of turkey in this blog post so you can choose wisely when the holidays roll around. Let’s get started!.
Ah Thanksgiving. A time for family, friends, and of course a delicious feast. And what better centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table than a perfectly roasted turkey? But with so many different turkeys available, how do you choose the right one? Fear not, fellow turkey enthusiasts, for this guide will equip you with all the knowledge you need to select the perfect bird for your celebration.
Fresh vs. Frozen: A Tale of Two Turkeys
The first decision you’ll face is whether to choose a fresh or frozen turkey. Both options have their pros and cons, so let’s dive into the details:
Fresh Turkeys:
- Pros: Fresh turkeys are readily available and require less thawing time. They also tend to have a slightly more flavorful taste.
- Cons: Fresh turkeys have a shorter shelf life and can be more expensive than frozen turkeys.
Frozen Turkeys:
- Pros: Frozen turkeys are more readily available year-round and are generally more affordable than fresh turkeys. They also have a longer shelf life, which makes them a good option if you’re planning your Thanksgiving feast in advance.
- Cons: Frozen turkeys require thawing time, which can take several days depending on the size of the bird.
Choosing the Right Size: Feeding Your Thanksgiving Crowd
Once you’ve decided on fresh or frozen, the next step is to choose the right size turkey for your gathering. A general rule of thumb is to allow 1 pound of turkey per person, but this can vary depending on the appetites of your guests and whether you plan on having leftovers.
Here’s a handy table to help you choose the right size turkey:
| Number of Guests | Turkey Size (pounds) |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | 8-12 |
| 3-4 | 12-16 |
| 5-6 | 16-20 |
| 7-8 | 20-24 |
| 9-10 | 24-28 |
| 11-12 | 28-32 |
Butterball Turkeys: The Gold Standard for Quality and Flavor
When it comes to choosing a turkey brand, Butterball is a name synonymous with quality and flavor. Butterball turkeys are raised with no antibiotics ever and are deep basted for juiciness and flavor. They also come with an easy-to-read instructional insert with step-by-step cooking instructions, making them a perfect choice for both seasoned cooks and Thanksgiving novices.
Additional Tips for Choosing the Perfect Turkey:
- Look for the USDA Grade: The USDA grades turkeys based on quality, with “Grade A” being the highest.
- Check the Packaging: Make sure the turkey is packaged securely and shows no signs of damage.
- Consider the Cooking Method: If you’re planning on deep-frying your turkey, you’ll need a smaller bird than if you’re roasting it.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help: If you’re unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to ask your butcher or a grocery store employee for assistance.
Choosing the perfect turkey for your Thanksgiving feast doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following the tips in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to selecting a delicious and flavorful bird that will make your Thanksgiving celebration a memorable one. And remember, no matter which turkey you choose, the most important ingredient is love. So gather your loved ones, crank up the oven, and get ready to enjoy a Thanksgiving feast that will warm your hearts and fill your bellies.
Ready to order for the holidays?
As the name suggests, fresh turkeys have never been frozen. They need to be frozen until you’re ready to cook them, or cooked within a few days of purchase (make sure to check the best before date!). We’ll let you make that determination, but many people think that fresh turkeys taste better than frozen ones. They find them juicer too. Your best option if you’re looking for a fresh turkey is to buy one from your neighborhood farmer or butcher.
When fresh turkeys are firm and have a “crispy crunch” on the outside, it usually means that they were transported in temperatures close to freezing, which happens a lot these days! This is not a deep freeze but rather a method of slowing down the growth of bacteria. The safest product is ensured by these lower temperatures because sick guests during the holidays are the last thing anyone wants!
Wondering how to store a whole turkey? Check out how to do it safely at CanadianTurkey.ca.
Frozen turkeys are, well, frozen. They can be stored in your freezer for up to a year and simply need to be thawed before cooking. For instructions on thawing a whole turkey, visit CanadianTurkey.ca.
Turkeys raised in an open environment with unrestricted access to the barn floor are known as free-runs. These barns frequently have open sides to let in fresh air and shield the flocks from strong winds and potential predators.
Free-range turkeys are raised with unrestricted access to the barn and, if weather permits, the outside environment. Outdoor access in Canada is limited do to the changing seasons. Turkey farmers are cautious about free-ranging turkeys and other poultry because losses from predators can be devastating. As such, it can be more difficult to find free-range poultry.
Kosher turkeys are raised, processed and prepared according to Jewish dietary law.
Butterball is a brand of turkey, not a specific type of turkey. To improve flavor and prolong shelf life, pre-injected brine comprising water, lemon juice, sodium ascorbate, modified corn starch, and flavors is applied to fresh Butterball turkeys. Pre-brined turkeys may end up tasting more salty than you intended, particularly if you plan to season the bird yourself. Additionally, remember that you are paying for the approximately 204–8% water weight that has been added to the turkey.
A flattened turkey (also called spatchcock) is, as you might have guessed, a turkey that has been flattened. The backbone is removed so that the turkey lays flat. This method of preparation results in a bird that cooks evenly and quickly.
A half-turkey is exactly what it sounds like: half of a turkey. This option is perfect for smaller gatherings or if you don’t want leftovers. Usually, a half-turkey is cut lengthwise down the backbone, with one leg (drum and thigh), one breast, and one wing on each half.
Is fresh or frozen Butterball turkey better?
FAQ
What is a Butterball premium turkey?
What is the difference between fresh and premium turkey?
What does fresh Butterball turkey mean?
Is a Butterball premium turkey already brined?