What Is Considered a Small Turkey?: A Guide to the Different Types

ByMike Thompson Turkey Cooking

What is Considered a Small Turkey?

The Thanksgiving turkey is a staple of the American holiday season, but not all turkeys are created equal. Some turkeys are much smaller than others, and there are a few different factors that determine how big a turkey is considered to be.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what is considered a small turkey, and we’ll discuss some of the factors that affect a turkey’s size. We’ll also provide some tips on how to choose the right size turkey for your Thanksgiving feast.

So whether you’re looking for a small turkey to cook for a small family or you’re just curious about the different sizes of turkeys, read on for all the information you need to know!

Species Weight Description
Wild Turkey 8-12 pounds Smallest of the North American turkeys, with a dark brown body and a long, pointed tail.
Ornamental Turkey 4-6 pounds Smaller than the wild turkey, with a variety of colors and patterns.
Bantam Turkey 2-3 pounds The smallest of all turkeys, with a pea comb and a short, upright tail.

What is the average weight of a small turkey?

The average weight of a small turkey is between 4 and 6 pounds. This size is ideal for roasting in a home oven. Smaller turkeys are also more affordable than larger turkeys, making them a good option for families on a budget.

When choosing a small turkey, it is important to consider the number of people you will be serving. A 4-pound turkey will feed about 4 to 6 people, while a 6-pound turkey will feed about 6 to 8 people.

It is also important to consider the cooking method you will be using. If you plan to roast the turkey, you will need to allow about 15 minutes per pound of turkey. If you plan to deep fry the turkey, you will need to allow about 3 minutes per pound of turkey.

Here are some tips for choosing a small turkey:

* Look for a turkey that is plump and has a smooth, unblemished skin.
* Avoid turkeys that are too young or too old. Young turkeys are more likely to be tough, while older turkeys are more likely to be dry.
* Choose a turkey that is free-range or organic. These turkeys are raised on a diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, which results in a better flavor.

Once you have chosen a small turkey, it is important to store it properly. Store the turkey in the refrigerator for up to 4 days before cooking. If you need to store the turkey for longer than 4 days, freeze it.

When you are ready to cook the turkey, thaw it in the refrigerator for 24 hours before cooking. Do not thaw the turkey at room temperature, as this can lead to the growth of bacteria.

What are the different breeds of small turkeys?

There are many different breeds of small turkeys, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular breeds of small turkeys include:

* Buff Orpington Turkey: The Buff Orpington Turkey is a light brown turkey with a yellow beard and wattle. This breed is known for its calm temperament and gentle disposition. Buff Orpington turkeys are good layers and produce large, brown eggs.
* Barred Plymouth Rock Turkey: The Barred Plymouth Rock Turkey is a black and white turkey with a red wattle and beard. This breed is known for its hardiness and adaptability. Barred Plymouth Rock turkeys are good layers and produce large, brown eggs.
* Cornish Cross Turkey: The Cornish Cross Turkey is a hybrid breed that is bred specifically for its meat production. This breed is known for its rapid growth and large size. Cornish Cross turkeys are not good layers and do not produce eggs.
* Easter Egger Turkey: The Easter Egger Turkey is a hybrid breed that is known for its beautiful plumage. This breed comes in a variety of colors, including white, black, brown, and red. Easter Egger turkeys are good layers and produce small, white eggs.
* Royal Palm Turkey: The Royal Palm Turkey is a white turkey with a black head and tail. This breed is known for its striking appearance. Royal Palm turkeys are good layers and produce large, white eggs.

When choosing a small turkey breed, it is important to consider the size of the turkey, the temperament of the turkey, and the purpose for which you will be using the turkey.

Here is a table that summarizes the different breeds of small turkeys:

| Breed | Weight | Temperament | Egg Production |
|—|—|—|—|
| Buff Orpington | 4-6 pounds | Calm and gentle | Good layers |
| Barred Plymouth Rock | 4-6 pounds | Hardy and adaptable | Good layers |
| Cornish Cross | 10-12 pounds | Rapid growth and large size | Not good layers |
| Easter Egger | 4-6 pounds | Beautiful plumage | Good layers |
| Royal Palm | 4-6 pounds | Striking appearance | Good layers |

Small turkeys are a great option for families on a budget or for those who do not need a large turkey. There are many different breeds of small turkeys to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. When choosing a small turkey, it is important to consider the size of the turkey, the temperament of the turkey, and the purpose for which you will be using the turkey.

What is considered a small turkey?

There is no one definitive answer to the question of what is considered a small turkey. The size of a turkey can vary depending on the breed, the environment in which it is raised, and the amount of food it is given. However, in general, a small turkey is considered to be one that weighs less than 10 pounds.

Some of the most popular breeds of small turkeys include the Narragansett, the Buff Orpington, and the Jersey Buff. These breeds are all known for their docile nature and their ability to produce a delicious, flavorful meat.

Small turkeys are a great option for home gardeners or homesteaders who are looking for a low-maintenance poultry option. They are relatively easy to care for and can be raised in a variety of settings. Small turkeys are also a good choice for people who are new to raising poultry.

What are the benefits of raising small turkeys?

There are many benefits to raising small turkeys, including:

* They are relatively easy to care for. Small turkeys are not as demanding as larger breeds of turkeys. They can be raised in a variety of settings, including in backyards or on small farms. They are also relatively hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
* They are a good source of meat. Small turkeys produce a delicious, flavorful meat that is high in protein and low in fat. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals.
* They are a fun and educational addition to any homestead. Raising small turkeys can be a fun and educational experience for children and adults alike. It is a great way to learn about the lifecycle of poultry and to get involved in the production of food.
* They can help to control pests. Small turkeys are natural predators of insects and rodents. They can help to keep your garden and yard free of pests.

How to care for small turkeys?

Caring for small turkeys is relatively simple. Here are a few tips:

* Provide a safe and comfortable environment. Small turkeys need a secure enclosure that is protected from predators. The enclosure should be large enough for the turkeys to move around freely and to have access to food and water.
* Provide plenty of food and water. Small turkeys need to be fed a diet of high-quality feed that is formulated for turkeys. They should also have access to fresh water at all times.
* Provide adequate shelter. Small turkeys need a shelter that will protect them from the elements. The shelter should be dry, draft-free, and well-ventilated.
* Provide plenty of exercise. Small turkeys need to be able to exercise in order to stay healthy. They should have access to a large area where they can run and play.
* Monitor the health of your turkeys. Small turkeys are susceptible to a variety of diseases. It is important to monitor the health of your turkeys and to take them to the veterinarian if they are sick.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your small turkeys are healthy and happy.

Small turkeys are a great option for home gardeners or homesteaders who are looking for a low-maintenance poultry option. They are relatively easy to care for, produce a delicious, flavorful meat, and can help to control pests. If you are thinking about raising turkeys, consider raising small turkeys. You will be glad you did.

What is considered a small turkey?

A small turkey is typically defined as a turkey that weighs between 8 and 12 pounds. This size range is ideal for smaller families or individuals who do not need a large amount of turkey meat. Small turkeys are also more affordable than larger turkeys.

What are the advantages of buying a small turkey?

There are several advantages to buying a small turkey, including:

* Lower cost: Small turkeys are typically less expensive than larger turkeys. This can be a significant savings, especially if you are cooking for a small group of people.
* Less cooking time: Small turkeys cook faster than larger turkeys. This can be a major advantage if you are short on time or if you do not have a large oven.
* Less leftovers: Small turkeys produce less leftovers than larger turkeys. This can be a benefit if you do not have a lot of freezer space or if you do not want to eat turkey for several days in a row.

What are the disadvantages of buying a small turkey?

There are a few disadvantages to buying a small turkey, including:

* Less meat: Small turkeys have less meat than larger turkeys. This can be a disadvantage if you have a large group of people to feed.
* Less variety: Small turkeys typically have less variety of cuts than larger turkeys. This can be a disadvantage if you are looking for specific cuts of turkey meat.
* Less presentation: Small turkeys are not as visually impressive as larger turkeys. This can be a disadvantage if you are planning to serve the turkey whole.

How do I choose the right size turkey for my needs?

When choosing the right size turkey for your needs, you should consider the following factors:

* The number of people you will be serving
* The amount of time you have to cook the turkey
* Your desired presentation
* Your budget

Once you have considered these factors, you can choose the right size turkey for your needs.

How do I cook a small turkey?

To cook a small turkey, you will need the following ingredients:

* 1 small turkey (8-12 pounds)
* 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 1/4 cup chopped celery
* 1/4 cup chopped carrot
* 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Rinse the turkey inside and out and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Rub the turkey with the vegetable oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and add the onion, celery, carrot, and chicken broth.
5. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
6. Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before carving.

What are some tips for cooking a small turkey?

Here are some tips for cooking a small turkey:

* Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the turkey is cooked to the proper temperature.
* Baste the turkey with the pan juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist.
* Cover the turkey with foil if it starts to brown too quickly.
* Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.

What are some common mistakes people make when cooking a small turkey?

Here are some common mistakes people make when cooking a small turkey:

* Not using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey.
* Not basting the turkey with the pan juices.
* Covering the turkey with foil too early.
* Not letting the turkey rest before carving.

By following these tips, you can avoid these common mistakes and cook a delicious small turkey.

there is no one definitive answer to the question of what is considered a small turkey. However, the information presented in this article provides a good starting point for understanding the different factors that can be used to determine the size of a turkey. By considering the weight, age, and breed of a turkey, it is possible to make an informed decision about whether or not a particular turkey is considered to be small.

Author Profile

Mike Thompson
Mike Thompson
Hello, fellow turkey enthusiasts! I'm Mike Thompson, a proud resident of the picturesque state of Missouri, renowned for its thriving turkey population and favorable hunting conditions. For over a decade, I've roamed the woods, valleys, and peaks of our beautiful state, learning every nook, cranny, and secret that turkey hunting has to offer. My track record? Well, let's just say I've bagged more turkeys than there are days in November, and each hunt has added a story to my ever-growing book of experiences.

However, as much as I love the thrill of the hunt, what truly fuels my passion is the joy of sharing my knowledge with others. That's why I created this platform. This site is not just a testament to my journey but a beacon for all those who are looking to embark on their own turkey hunting adventures. Whether you're a beginner eager to get started or a seasoned pro seeking advanced tips, you'll find a wealth of information here.

From understanding turkey behavior, tracking techniques, and the best equipment to use, to the do's and don'ts of turkey hunting, this site is a comprehensive guide to all things turkey. So, strap on your boots, pick up your gear, and let's embark on a journey together into the world of turkey hunting. Welcome to my site, and happy hunting!