When shopping for your Thanksgiving feast or a special family dinner, you may come across the term "young turkey" in the poultry section. What is a young turkey and what does this term mean?

Understanding what a young turkey is can help you make a more informed decision for your meal planning. Here’s everything you need to know about young turkeys, including their characteristics, benefits, and how to cook them! And, don’t forget to order your organic turkey for the upcoming holiday!

What is a Young Turkey?

A young turkey is a turkey that is slaughtered at a younger age than mature turkeys. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), a young turkey is one that is less than 8 months old at the time of processing. Most young turkeys available in the market are typically between 4 and 6 months old. These turkeys can be either male (toms) or female (hens), but the term "young turkey" specifically refers to their age rather than their sex.

Characteristics of a Young Turkey

Tender Meat: One of the primary characteristics of a young turkey is its tender meat. Because these turkeys are harvested at a younger age, their muscles have not fully developed or toughened, resulting in more tender and juicier meat compared to older birds.

Mild Flavor: Young turkeys have a mild flavor, making them versatile for various recipes and cooking methods. The mildness also makes them more appealing to a wide range of palates.

Smaller Size: Young turkeys are generally smaller in size compared to older turkeys. They typically weigh between 12 and 20 pounds, which makes them ideal for small to medium-sized gatherings. This also makes them the perfect size for roasting in a home kitchen oven.

Benefits of Choosing a Young Turkey

Ease of Cooking: Due to their tender meat and smaller size, young turkeys are easier to cook. They require less time in the oven, and the risk of overcooking and drying out the meat is reduced.

Juicier Meat: The tenderness of a young turkey translates to juicier meat, especially in the breast, which is often prone to drying out in older birds.

Versatility: Young turkeys’ mild flavor makes them ideal for a variety of recipes and seasonings. Whether you prefer traditional roasting, brining, smoking, or frying, a young turkey can adapt well to different cooking techniques.

More Manageable Portions: The smaller size of young turkeys makes them easier to handle and carve. They also yield portions that are more manageable for small to medium-sized gatherings, this minimizes leftovers and waste.

How to Cook a Young Turkey

Roasting: Roasting is the most common method for cooking a young turkey. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Season the turkey with your preferred herbs and spices, and roast it for about 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh. Watch our video Butter Herb Roasted Turkey for a complete step by step guide on how to cook your bird.

Brining: Brining can enhance the juiciness and flavor of a young turkey. Submerge the turkey in a solution of water, salt, and optional seasonings for 12-24 hours before cooking. This process helps to infuse the meat with moisture and flavor.

Smoking: Smoking a young turkey imparts a delicious, smoky flavor to the meat. Use a smoker set to 250°F and smoke the turkey for about 20-30 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The smaller turkeys are ideal for smoking because the turkey must pass through the temperature range from 40°F to 140°F within 4 hours of being in the smoker, otherwise it can spoil before it cooks through. If you’re smoking a turkey this year, the ideal size is our extra small or small turkey. Try our recipe for Lemon Herb Smoked Turkey.

Frying: Deep-frying a young turkey is a popular method that results in a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Heat oil in a large pot to 350°F and carefully lower the turkey into the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Smaller turkeys are also ideal for frying to ensure they are cooked fully through in a shorter time.

Gobble Up the Goodness of a Young Turkey

A young turkey is an ideal choice for those seeking a tender, juicy, and mild-flavored bird for their holiday meals or special occasions. Its manageable size, ease of cooking, and versatility make it popular among home cooks. Whether you roast, brine, smoke, or fry your young turkey, you can be assured of a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends. Make sure to order your organic turkey in time for the holiday festivities!