Enjoy this product 3-5 days after delivery or freeze upon arrival, and use within the year.
This product ships deep chilled to arrive fresh in a biodegradable liner. Arrival temperature of bird will vary depending on your location, & turkey may feel hard upon arrival – this indicates it is still deeply chilled.
That suggested roasting times may vary. If the turkey is unstuffed, decrease the roasting times listed above by approximately 30 minutes.
To remove the truss just lift the ring and pull it up and over the end of the drumstick. To secure the truss, hold the drumsticks together, lift the ring and pull it over the drumsticks. The nylon truss is oven and microwave safe and can withstand oven temperatures of up to 450º F.
Preheat oven to 325º F. Remove soft oven ready turkey from the bag. After removing the neck and giblets from the body cavities rinse the bird with cold water. Pat turkey dry with a paper towel. If you choose to stuff your bird this would be the time to do so.
When it comes to holiday meals, a showstopping turkey takes center stage. For gatherings of 20-25 people, a 25 pound turkey is often the perfect size. Finding just the right 25 pound fresh or frozen turkey ensures you can feed the whole crowd. Know where to look and what to look for when buying your big bird.
Check Local Specialty Poultry Shops
Small local turkey farms and specialty poultry shops are a great option for sourcing a high-quality fresh 25 pound turkey, These specialty purveyors pride themselves on raising turkeys using natural feeds and humane protocols The turkeys are minimally processed to retain maximum flavor
Seek out local farms that allow customers to preorder fresh turkeys for pickup Choose your exact size bird and select a pickup date convenient for your schedule Farms harvesting turkeys daily in the lead up to the holidays guarantees your 25 pound turkey is as fresh as possible.
Visiting local turkey farms also offers the chance to see the birds in person and learn about how they are raised. You gain confidence knowing the source of your Thanksgiving or Christmas centerpiece.
Order from Online Mail Order Companies
If local turkey farms are not an option in your area, look into ordering from online mail order purveyors. Companies like Bartels Hatchery, Mary’s Free Range Turkeys, and Joyce Farms offer frozen 25 pound turkeys shipped directly to your door.
Read about the diet, housing, breed, and processing for turkeys sold by the company. Select a brand aligning with your preferences and values when it comes to poultry raising practices. Order your frozen turkey early to arrive in time for thawing before holiday cooking.
Check Availability at Specialty Groceries
In addition to turkey-focused suppliers, many upscale grocers and butcher shops stock fresh turkeys in popular sizes come November. Retailers like Whole Foods Market, Peapod, FreshDirect, and Costco often carry 25 pound fresh turkeys for special order.
Check with your local specialty markets around mid-October to find out when holiday turkeys will be available to preorder or purchase. Reserve your 25 pound bird early, as supply can be limited. Shopping specialty grocers offers convenience while still getting a high-quality turkey.
Compare Options at Large Grocery Stores
For maximum convenience, larger grocery store chains like Kroger, Safeway, Publix, and Albertsons will stock frozen 25 pound turkeys in November and December. You can reserve one for pickup when doing your normal weekly shopping.
Compare antibiotic-free, organic, heirloom, and free-range options across stores to get your favored 25 pound turkey at the best value. Just be aware that supply and variety may be lower than specialty purveyors. Check availability online and call ahead to confirm.
Know What to Avoid
When evaluating 25 pound turkey options, pass on any with evidence of freezer burn, foul odors, or excessive ice crystallization. Also avoid pre-stuffed or pre-basted turkeys, which tend to have lower quality meat with excessive sodium.
Ideally, source the highest quality minimally processed turkey possible for the best flavor and texture. Carefully raised turkeys from reputable suppliers make holiday feasting extra special.
Allow Enough Thaw Time
Be sure to check the thawing time needed for a 25 pound frozen turkey, which can take over a week in the refrigerator. Make your purchase date accordingly to safely thaw the turkey using USDA recommended guidelines before cooking.
With a little planning and research, you can secure a spectacular 25 pound turkey as the memorable main course for your holiday gatherings. From family farms to grocery aisles, you have ample options to find the ideal turkey.
Family Recipe: Simple Rub
Rub the exterior of turkey with a blend of your favorite herbs and spices or with a paste made of the following ingredients:
4 Tbsp oil, (melted butter, margarine, olive oil, etc.) 4 tsp. salt, or to taste 2 tsp. paprika
Place the turkey in an open roasting pan, breast side up. Cover the bottom of the pan with approximately 2 cups water or broth. Place your beautiful turkey in the oven.
Use a 325º F oven. We would encourage you to check the internal temperature throughout the roasting time to be careful not to over-roast. The internal temperature typically increases more rapidly during the last half of roasting.
There is no need to turn the bird while roasting as it will brown to a rich, golden color. A foil tent can be placed loosely over the turkey during the last hour of roasting to prevent over browning. For truly marvelous gravy, heat (do not boil) 1 cup white wine. Pour this over your turkey halfway through the roasting time. When the turkey reaches the desired internal temperature, remove from the oven. Cover and let stand for at least 15 minute before carving.
What Size Turkey To Buy – Ace Hardware
FAQ
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