Turkey trimmings are an underrated and economical turkey product that can add flavor and nutrition to many dishes. But what exactly are turkey trimmings? Let’s take a closer look at what they are, where they come from, and how to use them.
What Are Turkey Trimmings?
Turkey trimmings refer to the meat scraps trimmed from whole turkey carcasses during processing. They consist of varied turkey parts like breast thigh wing, or a combination. The pieces are bite-sized and irregularly shaped.
When a whole turkey is fabricated into consumer cuts like breasts thighs and wings, there are always small leftover pieces. These trim pieces may include skin, fat, cartilage, and meat. Rather than go to waste, the processor collects and packages them as turkey trimmings.
Where Do Turkey Trimmings Come From?
Turkey trimmings are a byproduct of the process of taking whole turkeys and cutting them into parts. Here’s a quick look at where they originate:
- Whole turkeys are slaughtered and processed at turkey processing plants.
- The turkeys are then broken down into primal cuts like breasts, legs, and wings.
- The trim and irregular pieces left over make up turkey trimmings.
- The trimmings are packaged and frozen to be sold for further use.
So turkey trimmings mainly consist of the meat leftover after fabricating consumer turkey cuts. They provide an economical way to make use of small pieces.
Grades of Turkey Trimmings
Turkey trimmings are available in different quality grades:
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A Grade: Highest quality trimmings with the most meat and least fat or cartilage. Best for recipes where texture is important.
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B Grade: Contains more fat and cartilage. Best used in recipes where trimmings will be chopped or minced.
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C Grade: Lower quality with high fat and cartilage content. Best for use in soups, stocks, and ground meat.
Higher grade turkey trimmings will provide better texture and flavor. Lower grades work well when appearance isn’t as important.
Benefits of Turkey Trimmings
There are several benefits to using turkey trimmings:
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Cost – Turkey trimmings are more affordable than whole breast or thigh meat. The irregular pieces fetch lower prices per pound.
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Convenience – The pre-trimmed, bite-size pieces are ready to cook. No knife work needed.
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Flavor – Turkey trimmings provide big turkey flavor in small pieces. Great for boosting taste in recipes.
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Nutrition – Turkey is a lean, low-fat protein. Trimmings provide an economical way to add protein to dishes.
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Sustainability – Using trimmings reduces turkey waste and makes the most of the whole bird.
How to Cook With Turkey Trimmings
The small, irregular shape of turkey trimmings makes them ideal additions to all kinds of dishes:
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Soups and stews – Add bite-size pieces to simmering liquid recipes. They hold up well to long cooking times.
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Stir fries – Quickly sauté small pieces to absorb flavors from other ingredients.
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Casseroles – Mix into any baked casserole dish for protein and texture.
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Salads – Toss with green or pasta salads. The pieces add juicy bites throughout.
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Sandwiches – Chop finely and use as the protein in chicken salad or on sandwiches.
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Snacks – Fry pieces in oil until crispy for high protein snacks or appetizers.
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Ground turkey – Use turkey trimmings in place of breast meat when making ground turkey. More fat equals more flavor and moisture.
With some creativity, turkey trimmings can be used in place of chicken or other meats in most recipes. Their meaty flavor complements both savory and sweet dishes.
Storing and Handling Turkey Trimmings
Since they areraw meat, proper storage and handling of turkey trimmings is important:
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Store frozen at 0°F until ready to use. They can be frozen for 9-12 months before the quality declines.
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Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Do not thaw at room temperature.
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Cook thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F. Pieces may cook faster than whole cuts.
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Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and use within 3-4 days. Discard if they develop an off odor or flavor.
Following safe handling procedures will reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
Sample Turkey Trimming Recipes
Here are just a few recipe ideas to inspire creative uses for turkey trimmings:
Savory Turkey and Vegetable Soup – Simmer trimmings with veggies like carrots, celery, and onions in broth. Finish with rice or pasta.
Crispy Turkey Strips – Toss trimmings in cornstarch, egg, and breadcrumbs. Fry in oil for protein packed appetizers.
Curried Turkey Salad – Mix chopped trimmings with mayo, apple, and curry powder for chicken salad with a twist.
Turkey Dumplings – Add bite-size pieces to the filling of steamed Asian dumplings and pot stickers.
Buffalo Turkey Wraps – Sauté trimmings and toss with Buffalo sauce. Stuff in tortillas with blue cheese crumbles.
Enjoy More Turkey for Less
Turkey trimmings provide an affordable, sustainable way to enjoy the great taste of turkey in everyday cooking. Their flavor and versatility make them a thrifty choice for soups, salads, snacks, and more. With proper handling, they can help make the most of the whole bird.
So next time you see turkey trimmings at the market, grab a pack and get cooking! They offer a meaty addition to all types of recipes.
What are turkey trimmings?
In the meat industry, the term ‘turkey trimmings’ refers to the various parts of meat that have been cut or sliced from a larger piece of meat. This mainly refers to the cut off pieces that cannot be used as complete fillets. This combination of small and large meat scraps is by no means less tasty. These bite-sized pieces are mostly an addition in the kitchen and add an extra dimension of flavor to preparations. They consist of various parts of the turkey, such as breast, thigh, or a combination thereof.
What are turkey trimmings used for?
Turkey trimmings, sliced pieces of turkey meat, are versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes. They are particularly suitable for use in stews, as they have time to cook slowly and absorb the flavors of the sauce. They can also be added to stir-fries, where they cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the other ingredients in the wok. In addition, they can be grilled, fried, or stewed and are a delicious addition to salads and pastas.
My very special Spanish Christmas Turkey with all the trimmings
FAQ
What is the meaning of turkey trimmings?
What are all the trimmings?
What do trimmings mean on Christmas dinner?
What are the different cuts of turkey?
What to do with leftover turkey & stuffing?
Leftover turkey and stuffing sandwiches are a firm favorite too. Create a pocket between the skin and the body of the bird. Heat half the butter in a frying pan over a medium heat (making sure not to burn the butter) and fry the onions and the celery till soft and translucent. Leave to one side to cool.
What should I do if my turkey breast is too thin?
If the liquid is too thin, mix more cornstarch with some liquid from the pot and stir it back into the simmering gravy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Slice the turkey breast as thinly as possible. Serve with the stuffing, gravy and cranberry sauce. This recipe has been updated and may differ from what was originally published or broadcast.
What makes a turkey dinner special?
A turkey dinner is not just about the food; it’s about creating lasting memories with loved ones. The joy of gathering around the table, sharing stories, and savoring delicious food is what makes this tradition so special. So, take the time to set a beautiful table, light some candles, and create an inviting atmosphere.
How do you cook a Turkey with thyme sprigs?
Boil the carrots and Brussels sprouts in separate pans of boiling water. Once cooked to your liking, drain and toss with the butter and plenty of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Snip off any trussing string, then garnish the turkey with fresh thyme sprigs.