Can You Buy Giblets Without a Turkey? Everything You Need to Know

Giblets are a delicious and nutritious part of a turkey that can be used in a variety of recipes But do you need to buy a whole turkey to get them? The short answer is no – you can purchase giblets separately

What Are Giblets?

Giblets typically refer to the edible organs of a turkey or chicken. The most common giblets are:

• Gizzard – A muscular organ used for grinding up food. It has a chewy texture.

• Liver – An organ rich in nutrients like iron, vitamin A and vitamin B. It has a smooth, creamy texture.

• Heart – A lean, muscular organ with a slightly chewy texture

• Neck – Used for making flavorful stocks and broths.

Why Buy Giblets Without a Turkey?

There are several reasons you may want to purchase giblets separately:

• To make gravy, stuffing or other dishes that use giblets without cooking a whole turkey.

• If you only need a small amount of giblets for a recipe.

• To save money instead of purchasing a whole bird.

• If you want fresher giblets than what come packaged in a store-bought turkey.

Where to Buy Giblets Without a Turkey

Butcher Shops

Many local butchers sell giblets separately, either fresh or frozen. Ask at the meat counter for availability.

Grocery Stores

Some grocery stores sell giblets in the poultry section, especially around holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas when they are in high demand. Check the chicken, turkey and specialty meat areas.

Online Stores

Several online meat purveyors sell giblets. Search for “chicken giblets” or “turkey giblets”. Make sure to check shipping costs.

Farmers Markets

Ask vendors at your local farmers market if they sell giblets from chickens or turkeys they raise. This will depend on the specific vendors.

Asian or International Markets

Markets specializing in Asian or other international ingredients sometimes carry giblets and offal. Check the poultry section.

How Much Do Giblets Cost?

Giblet pricing can vary greatly depending on source, quantity and whether they are fresh or frozen. Some general pricing guidelines:

• Fresh giblets: $3-$5 per pound

• Frozen giblets: $1.50-$3 per pound

• Whole poultry giblet packs: $2-$4

Buying giblets in bulk quantities can lower the per-pound price. Freezing extras will keep them fresh for months.

How to Cook Delicious Giblet Dishes

Giblets have a unique, rich flavor perfect for various dishes:

Gravy

Simmer giblets in broth and use the strained liquid as the base for turkey or chicken gravy.

Stuffing

Saute giblets with aromatics like onion, celery and herbs then mix into your favorite stuffing recipe.

Giblet Pâté

Puree sautéed livers with butter, spices and heavy cream for a rich and smooth pâté.

Heart Skewers

Marinate cubed hearts in olive oil, citrus and herbs. Thread onto skewers and grill.

Dirty Rice

Cook liver and gizzards with rice, broth and seasonings for a classic Cajun dish.

Neck Stock

Simmer the neck with vegetables and herbs to create a deeply flavored stock for soups or stews.

Fried Gizzards

Bread and fry gizzard slices for a crunchy, flavorful snack or side dish.

Storing and Freezing Giblets

• Store fresh giblets in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

• Freeze in resealable plastic bags for 2-3 months.

• When freezing, portion giblets for easier use like in 1 lb portions.

• Prevent freezer burn by removing as much air as possible before sealing bags.

With proper storage, giblets bought separately will stay fresh until you are ready to use them in your favorite recipes.

Giblets from Other Birds

While turkey giblets are the most common, you can also find giblets from other birds like chicken, duck, goose and Cornish hens. Their flavor profile will be slightly different but can be substituted in recipes calling for turkey giblets.

Ready to Try Giblets?

Giblets are full of flavor and nutrients. With so many options for buying giblets separately from a whole turkey, it is easy to add them to your cooking repertoire. Try them in gravy, patties, skewers, dirty rice and other delectable dishes. Just remember proper storage and food safety when handling raw giblets. Now get ready to enjoy the amazing taste giblets can add to meals!