What Are Turkey Ribs? A Detailed Explanation

Turkey ribs are an underrated cut of meat that can be a delicious addition to your grilling repertoire. But there is often confusion around what turkey ribs actually are. In this article, we’ll provide a detailed explanation of turkey ribs, where they come from, how to cook them, and tips to make them taste their best.

What Part of the Turkey Do Turkey Ribs Come From?

Turkey ribs do not actually come from the rib section as the name implies. Rather, turkey ribs are cut from the shoulder of the turkey near the breast. This section contains part of the scapula bone and some attached meat. When cut into individual portions with some bone attached, these are sold as “turkey ribs”.

So while pork or beef ribs are from the ribcage, turkey ribs come from the shoulder/upper wing section The turkey does not actually have any true ribs!

Why Are They Called Turkey Ribs?

Although not anatomically ribs, this cut is labeled as “ribs” in order to market them similarly to pork spare ribs or beef short ribs. The bone-in turkey shoulder pieces resemble ribs in shape and the meat has a texture similar to pork ribs when cooked.

The name also helps connect the product to the extremely popular pork ribs and leads to consumer interest It’s an appealing name, even if not fully accurate

Are Turkey Ribs White or Dark Meat?

Turkey ribs are composed of white breast meat from the turkey shoulder. So unlike pork or beef ribs which are higher in fat, turkey ribs are lean, low-fat, and high in protein. But the bone adds flavor and moisture during cooking.

How Do Turkey Ribs Taste?

Reviews of the flavor are positive, describing it as similar to pork ribs but less greasy. The white meat takes on a tender, juicy texture with mild turkey flavor when cooked properly. The bone adds richness and barbecue-friendly qualities. When seasoned and sauced similar to pork ribs, you can achieve a classic finger-lickin’ rib experience but with less fat.

How to Cook Turkey Ribs

Cooking methods for turkey ribs are similar to pork ribs. Low and slow techniques like smoking, grilling, and braising work well to break down the meat and connective tissue. Apply your favorite barbecue dry rub or sauce. indirect heat around 300°F for 1-2 hours produces tasty, tender results.

You can also braise or cook in the oven. Foil covering while cooking keeps the meat moist. Finishing under the broiler or on the grill gives crispy caramelization.

Always cook to an internal temperature of 165°F. Let rest 5-10 minutes before serving.

Where to Buy Turkey Ribs

Fresh, uncooked turkey ribs may require special ordering from a butcher shop. Online specialty meat retailers like Kuck Farms, TK Gourmet, and Thrive Market sell pre-cooked, vacuum-sealed turkey ribs ready to heat and eat. Costco and restaurant supply stores also carry fully-cooked turkey rib packages.

Advantages of Cooking Turkey Ribs

Here are some of the benefits that turkey ribs offer compared to traditional pork or beef ribs:

• Lower in fat and calories while still tasty
• Usually cheaper per pound than beef or pork ribs
• Leaner white meat balances heavy barbecue dishes
• Shorter cook times than large beef/pork rib cuts
• Milder flavor appeals to some palates
• Easier for guests who don’t eat red meat or pork

Tips for the Best Turkey Ribs

To maximize the flavor and texture of turkey ribs, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose high-quality, meaty ribs for the best results
• Brine in saltwater solution before cooking to enhance moisture
• Remove thin membrane from bone side for better smoke absorption
• Apply rub generously and let penetrate meat 30-60 minutes pre-cooking
• Smoke low using apple, pecan, or hickory wood for flavor
• Grill over medium heat 2-3 minutes per side to finish
• Brush with sauce in the last 5-10 minutes to avoid burning
• Let rest 10 minutes before cutting for juicier meat

While the name is a little misleading, turkey ribs can be an awesome alternative to traditional ribs with less fat and calories. With proper preparation using low and slow cooking, sauces, and rubs, you can achieve fall-off-the-bone texture and finger-licking meat. Try turkey ribs for your next backyard barbecue and experience this underrated cut in a new way!