The Best Places to Buy Delicious Smoked Turkey

Smoked turkey is a delightful treat that adds incredible flavor to sandwiches, salads, soups, and any meal. The smoky aroma, tender meat, and rich taste make it a favorite for holidays and gatherings. But where can you find high-quality, delicious smoked turkey? I researched some of the top options for buying pre-cooked smoked turkey online and in stores.

Grocery Stores & Warehouse Clubs – Affordable & Accessible

Major grocery chains like Kroger, Safeway, and Albertsons often carry smoked turkey products in the deli section. This allows you to conveniently grab smoked turkey breast, legs, or even whole smoked turkeys along with your regular groceries

For excellent value in bulk, check your local warehouse club. Costco offers a Kirkland Signature Whole Smoked Turkey that averages 13 lbs for just $2.99 per pound. It’s hickory smoked and ready to serve, perfect for feeding a crowd. The major downside is you have to buy a large quantity, so it’s not ideal for smaller households.

Online Mail Order – Shipped Fresh to Your Door

The internet has opened up a world of options for buying smoked meats online. Companies like D’Artagnan, Porter Road, and Crowd Cow ship fresh smoked turkey directly to your door.

The selection is diverse – you’ll find smoked whole turkeys, boneless turkey breasts, drumsticks, wings, turkey bacon, sausage, lunch meat, and more. Mail order allows you to buy just what you need versus being constrained by what’s available locally. Keep shipping costs in mind though.

Specialty Butcher Shops – Premium Custom Smoking

For the absolute freshest, highest quality smoked turkey, visit a local specialty butcher shop. They typically source meat locally and smoke turkeys in-house to order.

Stores like Bolner’s Fiesta Products in San Antonio, TX and Southside Market & BBQ in Elgin, TX have decades of smoking expertise. You can customize wood type, smoking time, seasonings, and more. The personalized service and focus on quality is unmatched. The downside is limited availability based on geography.

National Brands – Reliable Grocery Store Staples

Popular national brands like Butterball, Boar’s Head, and Jennie-O are widely available in grocery store delis year-round. Their pre-packaged smoked turkey offers consistent quality and affordable prices.

While not as customizable as mail order or specialty shops, national brands provide reliable smoked turkey for everyday meals. Look for nitrate-free, gluten-free options to avoid unwanted ingredients.

Buying Considerations – Factors to Keep in Mind

When selecting smoked turkey, here are some important buying considerations:

• Type of Smoking – Hickory and applewood smoked are most common. Mesquite or other woods provide unique flavor nuances.

• Portion Size – Whole smoked turkeys, turkey breasts, drumsticks, wings, cutlets, lunch meat, etc.

• Flavorings – Salt, brown sugar, honey, spices, and brines impact flavor. Look for all natural ingredients.

• Preservatives – Nitrate-free and gluten-free options available for health-conscious buyers.

• Accessibility – Online mail order provides more variety. Local butcher shops offer customization. National brands are conveniently available year-round.

Get Your Smoked Turkey Today!

Smoked turkey is a versatile, tasty addition to menus any time of year. While specialty local butchers provide premium quality and custom smoking, national brands and online mail order offer convenience and affordability. Consider how much you need, your flavor preferences, and your budget. Then get ready to enjoy juicy, smoky, mouthwatering turkey on your table!