Which is Better: Tom or Hen Turkey?

The age-old debate around the Thanksgiving table – should we buy a tom or a hen turkey this year? Both have their advantages and disadvantages when it comes to taste, texture, price, and more. This article will break down the key differences between tom and hen turkeys to help you make an informed decision for your next turkey dinner.

What is a Tom Turkey?

A tom turkey is a male turkey. Toms are larger than hens with fuller breasts and meatier thighs. The average sized tom turkey is 16 pounds or heavier. Their large size makes them a good choice for feeding a crowd at Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Toms also have more flavor than hens because their thighs and legs get more exercise during their lifetime. The extra movement builds more muscle and fat, adding more robust turkey flavor. The breast meat is moist and tender when properly cooked.

One downside to toms is that their size makes them harder to cook evenly. The breast can dry out before the thighs are done. Taking care to brine or inject moisture into the breast helps prevent this. Toms also have a slightly gamier flavor that some people find too strong.

What is a Hen Turkey?

A hen turkey is a female turkey. Hens are much smaller than toms, averaging 10-16 pounds. Hens have a milder flavor because they don’t build up as much fat and muscle tissue. Their petite size makes them easier to cook evenly throughout.

The downside to hens is less meat per pound. Their smaller breasts mean more work for less meat. Hens can also dry out faster since they contain less internal fat. Brining is highly recommended.

For a classic roasted turkey, hens provide tender, juicy meat without strong turkey flavor. Their petite size can be perfect for a smaller gathering.

Tom vs Hen Turkey Differences

Size – Toms weigh 16+ lbs, hens 10-16 lbs

Flavor – Toms have robust, gamy flavor. Hens are mild.

Texture – Toms have tender, moist breast meat. Hens can be slightly drier.

Cooking – Toms hard to cook evenly. Hens cook evenly.

Price – Toms cost slightly less per pound.

Leftovers – Toms provide more leftovers.

Which is More Tender – Tom or Hen?

There is a common misconception that hens are always more tender and moist than toms. However, age is actually more important for tenderness than gender.

Younger birds, whether male or female, will be tender when cooked properly. An older hen can be tougher than a young tom. Heritage breed turkeys are also more muscular and flavorful than commercial turkeys, regardless of gender.

For optimum tenderness, choose the freshest bird possible, ideally under 16 weeks old. Then brine or inject the turkey to infuse moisture and cook it carefully to the proper internal temperature without overcooking.

Pros and Cons of Tom Turkeys

Pros:

• More meat for larger gatherings
• Lower cost per pound
• Rich, robust turkey flavor
• Moist, tender breast meat
• Lots of leftovers

Cons:

• Can be difficult to cook evenly
• Can have strong “gamey” flavor
• Bone-in thighs take longer to cook
• Have to buy a very large bird

Pros and Cons of Hen Turkeys

Pros:

• Ideal size for smaller gatherings
• Cooks evenly due to smaller size
• Milder, more delicate flavor
• Easier to find smaller birds (10-14 lbs)

Cons:

• Less meat per pound
• Can have slightly drier texture
• Need to buy multiples for large groups
• Less leftovers

Tips for Cooking Tom vs Hen Turkey

• Brine or inject moisture into any turkey, especially the breast
• Cook hens to 165°F and toms to 175°F for food safety
• Use a probe thermometer to check temp in breast and thigh
• Tent with foil if breast or thighs brown too fast
• Let rest 20 minutes before carving for juiciness

The Best Uses for Tom vs Hen Turkeys

Toms are best for:

• Feeding large groups 10+ people
• Classic roasted whole turkey dinner
• Turkey sandwiches with plentiful leftovers

Hens are best for:

• Feeding smaller groups under 8 people
• Trying new recipes like grilled or smoked turkey
• Turkey breast roasts for easy white meat

No matter which you choose, always opt for the freshest bird you can find and take care while cooking. With the right techniques, both toms and hens can deliver a moist, delicious turkey dinner the whole family will love. Let your number of guests and preference for rich flavor vs mild flavor guide you to the perfect turkey for your Thanksgiving or Christmas feast.