The Thanksgiving turkey, above and beyond American traditions and customs, is the centerpiece of our group celebrations and the occasion to spend time with loved ones around the table.
If you’re looking for corporate or farm gifts for your employees, a locally grown, sustainably raised farm fresh turkey is a great option that can leave a lasting impression on your team for years to come. If youre interested in gifting a number of turkeys, email Amanda.
All five of the turkey options are humanely raised without the use of antibiotics or additional hormones, and the birds are free to roam around because sustainable farming is important to all of us.
The Kelly Bronze turkeys are raised by our good friend Judd Culver in Crozet, VA. â The heritage bronze breed was revived by Dr. For the past ten years in a row, Kelly—one of the few people in the world with a doctorate in turkey husbandry—has been voted Britain’s best turkey! These turkeys are not only free-range, but they are also foraging in the wild, freely roaming the farm and living lives not unlike those of a wild turkey. â After harvest, the birds are hand-plucked (many quills remain) and dry-hung like a traditional game bird. This suggests that the turkey meat has more flavor, is denser, cooks faster, and doesn’t need to be brined like a dry-aged steak. The Kelly Bronze comes in a neat black box with cooking instructions and a special meat thermometer.
Kelly Bronze components
The Heritage Bronze turkeys are raised in Albemarle County, Virginia at Heritage Glen Farm. â These heritage breed turkeys are free-range and wild-foraging, similar to the Kelly Bronze. They are free to wander the farm and lead lives akin to those of a wild turkey. Compared to a typical Kelly Bronze bird, these birds have fewer pinfeathers and quills due to their processing, which eliminates the need for brining.
The Heritage Black turkeys are raised by a small co-op in North Carolina. These heritage breed turkeys are free-range similar to the Heritage Bronze.
The Whiffletree White turkeys come from our long-time friend Jesse Straight of Whiffletree Farm in Warrenton, VA. These hybrid turkeys are the result of crosses between white farmers, with the goal of producing larger birds with more breast meat. They live freely on grasslands and receive non-GMO feed as an additional source of nutrition.
The Ashley White turkeys are raised with love by the Ashley family co-op in North Carolina. Raised on pasture, these hybrid white turkeys are organically grown in an effort to produce larger birds with more breast meat. They are known as “happy turkeys. ” .
Parts of Ashley White
Are you looking for a unique and flavorful poultry experience? Look no further than wild turkey meat! This lean, protein-packed option boasts a rich, gamey flavor that’s perfect for grilling, roasting, or even making delicious Thanksgiving stuffing. But where can you find this culinary gem?
Fear not, foodies: I’ve searched the internet to find the best sources for wild turkey meat. These online merchants provide fresh, frozen, and even pre-seasoned options to suit your needs:
Exotic Meat Market: A vast array of wild turkey products, such as fresh whole turkeys, ground meat, and even wild turkey sausages, are available at this online paradise for exotic meats. Their turkeys come from ethical farms that value humane treatment and pasture-based living conditions. They also provide nationwide shipping, so you can be sure your wild turkey will arrive fresh and prepared for cooking.
Meat N’ Bone: This premium online butcher shop offers a curated selection of Amish turkeys raised in the Midwest. These turkeys are all-natural and free from antibiotics or hormones, resulting in a truly delicious and healthy option. You can choose from a variety of sizes, from 8-pound birds to 32-pound behemoths, perfect for feeding a crowd.
Additional Resources:
- Local Farmers Markets: Check your local farmers’ markets for wild turkey offerings. Many small farms raise turkeys in a humane and sustainable manner, and you’ll likely find fresh, high-quality birds at a competitive price.
- Specialty Grocery Stores: Some high-end grocery stores or butcher shops may carry wild turkey meat. While the selection might be smaller than online retailers, it’s worth checking out if you prefer to shop locally.
Tips for Buying Wild Turkey Meat:
- Consider the size of your bird: Wild turkeys tend to be larger than domesticated turkeys, so choose a size that’s appropriate for your needs and cooking method.
- Ask about the source of the meat: Ensure the turkeys were raised in a humane and sustainable manner. Look for certifications like “free-range” or “organic” to guarantee ethical sourcing.
- Check the expiration date: As with any meat, ensure the wild turkey is fresh and within its expiration date.
Cooking with Wild Turkey:
Wild turkey meat is incredibly versatile and can be cooked in various ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Roast a whole wild turkey: This classic Thanksgiving dish is a showstopper with its rich flavor and juicy meat.
- Grill wild turkey breast steaks: These lean and flavorful steaks are perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
- Make wild turkey burgers: These burgers are packed with protein and flavor, making them a delicious alternative to beef burgers.
- Add wild turkey to your favorite soups and stews: The rich flavor of wild turkey adds depth and complexity to any hearty soup or stew.
So, there you have it! Your guide to buying and cooking delicious wild turkey meat. With its unique flavor and versatility, wild turkey is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Remember, when choosing a retailer, prioritize ethical sourcing and high-quality products for the best possible experience. Happy cooking!
Field to table wild Turkey!!!
FAQ
Can you buy a wild turkey for Thanksgiving?
Is wild turkey meat any good?
Why is there a wild turkey shortage?
Is wild turkey better than store bought?