When you think of classic American comfort foods, turkey legs have to make the list. These juicy, meaty drumsticks are a beloved snack at state fairs, theme parks, and backyard barbecues. While you may associate them with the holidays, you can enjoy delicious turkey legs any time of year. If you’ve been craving this hearty dish, you may wonder – where can I get turkey legs? Luckily, it’s easier than ever to get your hands on this flavorful favorite.
Purchasing Turkey Legs at the Grocery Store
One of the easiest ways to buy turkey legs is to head to your local supermarket. Most major grocery store chains carry turkey legs, often sold in packs of two to three drumsticks. Here are some tips for finding turkey legs at the grocery store:
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Check the poultry section Turkey legs are usually located in the refrigerated poultry section near the whole turkeys and chicken
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Look for family or value packs: For the best deal on turkey legs, purchase family packs containing multiple drumsticks. This offers a lower price per pound.
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Inspect for freshness Choose turkey legs that look moist and have supple, shiny skin Avoid any with dry, dull skin.
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Estimate 1 leg per person: For a meal, plan on purchasing 1 turkey leg per person. Each drumstick weighs around 1 – 1.5 lbs.
When buying turkey legs from the grocery store, you’ll pay approximately $2-$3 per pound. Pricing may fluctuate seasonally around the holidays when demand is higher.
Ordering Turkey Legs for Home Delivery
Another convenient way to get turkey legs is by ordering them for delivery from online grocery services Companies like Instacart allow you to shop from local supermarket inventories and get turkey legs delivered straight to your door
Or, explore ordering from a food delivery service like Schwan’s. They carry fully cooked boneless turkey legs you can heat and eat. Home delivery lets you skip the trip to the store when those turkey leg cravings strike.
Buying Turkey Legs in Bulk or Cases
For large gatherings, bulk cases of turkey legs can offer savings and convenience. Here are some options for purchasing turkey legs in bulk:
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Warehouse clubs: Retailers like Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s Wholesale Club all sell case packs of turkey legs, typically around 15-20 pounds. You don’t need a membership for a one-time purchase.
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Butcher shops or meat markets: Many local butchers and meat markets sell turkey legs by the case. Ask about reserving or pre-ordering cases for holidays or big events.
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Online specialty suppliers: Websites like FarmersFreshMeat.com ship fresh turkey leg cases directly to consumers. Online pricing may beat grocery stores for bulk quantities.
Buying bulk turkey leg cases does require ample freezer space. Estimate needing about 1 cubic foot of freezer room per 15-20 pound case.
Getting Turkey Legs from Local Farms or Butchers
Developing a relationship with local meat suppliers is a great way to access premium turkey legs. Here are some tips:
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Visit family farms: Small poultry farms often sell whole frozen turkeys and turkey parts like drumsticks. Chat with farmers at the market about ordering legs.
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Talk to specialty butchers: Local butcher shops may source turkeys and turkey legs from regional providers. Ask about seasonal availability and pricing.
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Check ethnic grocers: Mexican meat markets, halal markets, and Asian grocery stores sometimes carry turkey legs sourced from local distributors.
Building a connection with a local farm, butcher, or specialty grocer allows you to request exactly what you need. Be sure to order turkey legs 1-2 weeks ahead of when you need them.
Enjoying Turkey Legs at Fairs, Theme Parks, and Events
For instant gratification of your turkey leg cravings, visit local fairs, amusement parks, Renaissance fairs, and other outdoor events. Turkey leg stands are staple concessions at:
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State and county fairs
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Theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios
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Spectator events like rodeos, races, and tournaments
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Renaissance festivals and medieval fairs
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Holiday festivals like pumpkin patches and Christmas markets
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Baseball, football, and soccer stadiums
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Food truck gatherings and outdoor markets
Part of the fun is enjoying piping hot, juicy turkey legs on-the-go as you explore an event. Prices are usually $8-$12 per leg.
Trendy Turkey Leg Dishes You Can Make at Home
Once you have your turkey legs, get ready to wow guests with these creative recipes:
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Beer-soaked smoked turkey legs: Soak legs in a hoppy beer like IPA before smoking for intense flavor.
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Nashville hot turkey legs: Coat legs in a spicy seasoned breading for a fiery crunch.
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Thai curry turkey legs: Marinate legs in red or green Thai curry paste for an exotic twist.
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Maple bourbon glazed turkey legs: Brush legs with a sweet and savory maple bourbon glaze while grilling.
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Buffalo turkey legs: Fry legs then coat in classic Buffalo wing sauce and serve with blue cheese dressing.
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Jerk turkey legs: Cover legs in traditional Jamaican jerk seasoning blend before baking or grilling.
With so many tasty preparations, turkey legs make the perfect appetizer, game day food, or no-fuss dinner.
Helpful Tips for Cooking Turkey Legs
Follow these simple tips for cooking juicy, flavorful turkey legs at home:
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Thaw frozen turkey legs for 1-2 days in the refrigerator before cooking. Never thaw at room temperature.
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Pat legs dry before seasoning or marinating for best texture and flavor.
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Use indirect heat on the grill, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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Roasting in the oven at 350°F works well. Arrange legs on a rack over a sheet pan to promote air circulation.
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Brush with sauce or glaze during the last 10-15 minutes of grilling or roasting.
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Let turkey legs rest 5-10 minutes after cooking before eating for the juiciest results.
When prepared properly, turkey legs turn out incredibly moist and tender every time.
Satisfy Your Cravings for Turkey Legs Any Time
Turkey legs have become a beloved American food tradition, showing up at backyard gatherings, tailgates, and holidays feasts. Their signature blend of rich, savory flavor and tender meatiness satisfies cravings in a nostalgic, comforting way. Whether buying them from the grocery store, getting a case delivered, or ordering at a fair, turkey legs are the ultimate hearty snack. With an array of cooking methods, you can enjoy this classic any time of year. So next time you get a hankering, seek out some turkey legs and get ready to feast. Those cravings will be history in just one juicy, satisfying bite!
Smoked Turkey Legs Recipe
FAQ
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