Turkey Meat

What Is Turkey?

Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) is the meat of a large poultry bird. The breast is light in color, very lean, and high in protein; the thigh and wing are darker and slightly fattier.

It is similar to chicken but larger, with a slightly richer, sweeter flavor. Because the lean breast dries out easily, it needs gentle cooking; a whole roasted turkey is a classic holiday meal.

Turkey Nutrition

Turkey breast provides about 135 kcal per 100 g, is high in protein, and very low in fat; it is rich in B vitamins, selenium, and zinc. Values are approximate and based on a similar profile.

How Should Turkey Be Eaten?

As poultry, turkey should always be cooked thoroughly and completely before eating. Its lean, protein-rich profile makes it a useful option in a balanced diet.

This information is general; turkey is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Turkey

Good turkey has a bright, pale pink color, firm meat, smooth skin (if present), and a clean smell. Avoid pieces that are grayish, sticky, or smell off.

• The color should be bright, pale pink
• The meat should be firm and smell clean
• Avoid sticky pieces or those with an off odor

How to Store Turkey

Store raw turkey in a covered container in the coldest part of the refrigerator for 1–2 days, or in the freezer for several months. Keep raw poultry separate from other foods, thaw it in the refrigerator, and do not refreeze thawed meat.

Using Turkey in the Kitchen

Turkey is roasted whole or in pieces, boiled, sautéed, grilled, or ground for meatballs and sausage-style products. Brining or marinating helps keep the lean breast from drying out; the thigh can withstand longer cooking.

How to Cook Turkey Breast Without Drying It Out

Soaking the breast in brine or marinating it helps retain moisture; cooking over medium heat, removing it from the heat as soon as it reaches an adequate internal temperature, and letting it rest also help prevent it from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is turkey healthier than chicken?

Turkey breast in particular is very lean and high in protein; like chicken, it can be part of a balanced diet. Both should be cooked thoroughly before eating.

Why can turkey be dry?

Turkey breast is very lean, so it dries out quickly when overcooked; brining, marinating, and careful cooking can help prevent this.

What does turkey taste like?

It is similar to chicken but has a slightly richer, meatier flavor; the thigh is darker and more flavorful than the breast.