Turkey

A turkey is a big, domesticated bird that is native to North America. It has white plumage and a bare neck and head with a wattle on it. The turkey’s feathers are brown with some color on its tail and the tips of its wings.

The name turkey was given to this bird because it was thought to have originated in Turkey. This is not true though. The wild turkey is actually a staple food in the

diet of most North Americans. Quite a few of these domesticated turkeys were actually brought to North America by the Pilgrims in 1620. After their arrival the Wampanog Indian tribe introduced the wild turkey to the Pilgrims. Then in 1621 the Pilgrims celebrated their first Thanksgiving with the Wampanog Indian tribe. In fact, the Wampanog Indians were the Pilgrims guests of honor at this dinner. While there is no hard evidence, it is believed that turkey was eaten at this celebration. In 1863 Thanksgiving finally became an official holiday. President Abraham Lincoln made this proclamation. From that point on Thanksgiving has been celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November.

Turkey has always been associated with Thanksgiving. In fact, turkey is actually a very important part of the Thanksgiving dinner menu. This is why Thanksgiving Day has also been called “turkey day.” Generally a turkey weighs between 25 – 35 pounds. They can be purchased fresh or frozen. Their skin is smooth, soft and creamy. They should not have any bruises or cuts on them. Once you purchase your turkey you should not store it for any more than two days. This is true regardless as to whether you are storing it in the refrigerator or freezer. Before you store your turkey you also need to remove the giblets and store them separately.

 

Like other poultry products, bacteria can affect turkey. For this reason, the area in which you are cooking the turkey should be very clean. You also need to make sure that you properly wash and cook your turkey. If you are going to stuff your turkey you should do so right before it is baked. When the internal temperature of the turkey reaches at least 180 degrees F, you can be sure that the turkey is fully cooked. In order to check the turkey’s temperature you are going to need to use an internal meat thermometer.

There are numerous ways in which you can prepare your turkey for Thanksgiving Day. Some of the favorite ways in which to prepare turkey include:
· Turkey breast Diane
· Garlic roasted turkey
· Seasoned turkey with rice pilaf
· Turkey scaloppini

Some things that you can do with your leftover turkey include making:
· Grilled turkey brat hoagies
· Stir fried turkey with walnuts and cashews
· Turkey pizza
· Turkey sandwiches
· Turkey chili
· Turkey enchiladas
· Ginger lime turkey strips
· Turkey lasagna
· Turkey parmesan

Now that you know where your turkey comes from and how to properly prepare it, go enjoy your turkey and have a happy Thanksgiving.