The Lowdown Turkey

Everything you need for the perfect roast turkey on Christmas Day

- Adam Bush

WHICH IS THE TURKEY FOR YOU?

When buying your turkey it’s important to think about who will be eating it. In the UK there are two distinct types of turkey to buy, and each will be suited to different tastes. If your family prefers white meat, with a less gamey flavour, look for a white breed of turkey, also known as the Broad Breasted White. As its name suggests, this has a higher proportion of white breast meat to dark leg meat. This is the breed most commonly available from supermarkets in the UK, and is often less expensive than other breeds. 

Alternatively, breeds such as Bronze and Norfolk Black are slower growing, with a much more gamey flavour as they are often hung for 14 days. Proportionately they have more leg to breast meat than white turkeys do, so are a better option for those looking for a more pronounced flavour. 

If there’s only a few people to feed, consider buying a turkey crown (a whole turkey with the legs and wings removed) or a boneless breast joint (see page 26).

WHERE TO BUY FROM