Cooking Tips for a Fresh, Never-Frozen Shults Farm Turkey
Thanksgiving (or any special gathering) is the perfect time to showcase a premium-quality turkey. At Shults Farm, our turkeys are raised with care and delivered to you fresh, never frozen. This guarantees a richer flavor and juicier texture that can truly elevate your holiday table. To help you get the most out of your Shults Farm turkey, here are some expert tips for preparing and cooking it to perfection!
1. Start with a Clean Slate
Before anything, ensure your turkey is rinsed under cold running water and patted dry with paper towels. This helps remove any residual juices or packaging fluids and creates the perfect surface for seasoning.
2. Plan Your Prep Time
Since our turkeys are fresh, there’s no need to account for thawing time, saving you 1-2 days in preparation. However, brining your turkey is a great way to ensure it’s full of flavor and moisture.
- Brine for Better Flavor: Use a simple brine of salt, sugar, water, and optional aromatics like bay leaves, peppercorns, and citrus peels. Brine in the fridge for 12-24 hours.
- If brining isn’t your style, a dry rub of salt and herbs applied 24 hours in advance can also do wonders.
3. Let It Rest Before Roasting
Take your turkey out of the fridge 1-2 hours before cooking to let it come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking throughout.
4. Season Generously
Fresh turkeys have a natural flavor that you’ll want to highlight rather than overpower. Stuff the cavity with aromatics like onions, garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage). Rub the outside generously with butter or olive oil, followed by salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.
5. Cook Low and Slow
Roast your turkey at 325°F to allow it to cook evenly while keeping it juicy. A fresh turkey cooks faster than a frozen one, so keep an eye on the temperature. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Perfect Temps: The breast should reach 165°F, and the thighs 175°F.
6. Use a Roasting Rack
A roasting rack ensures air circulates under the bird, allowing it to cook evenly and avoid soggy skin. Place it in a shallow roasting pan to collect flavorful drippings for gravy.
7. Cover and Uncover Strategically
Start with the turkey tented in aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. Remove the foil during the last hour of roasting to let the skin crisp up beautifully.
8. Rest Before Carving
Once your turkey reaches the perfect temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a tender and flavorful bird.
9. Don’t Waste the Drippings
The drippings from a fresh Shults Farm turkey are liquid gold! Use them to create a rich, savory gravy that pairs perfectly with your turkey and sides.
10. Serve and Enjoy
Present your masterpiece on a platter surrounded by garnishes like fresh herbs, citrus slices, or roasted vegetables. Watch as your family and guests marvel at the tender, flavorful result.
Why Choose Fresh Over Frozen?
Fresh turkeys, like the ones from Shults Farm, don’t lose moisture during freezing and thawing, ensuring your meal is juicy and flavorful. Plus, you’re supporting a local, family-run farm that takes pride in its high-quality products.
From our farm to your table, we’re proud to help make your holiday feast unforgettable. Bon appétit!
