Thanksgiving turkeys conjure a lot of thoughts and memories, including expectations of taste. Did you know that over 99% of turkeys sold commercially are all the same breed? Regardless of brand, your commercial turkey is the Broad-Breasted White, chosen simply for its cleaner-appearing carcass. It's yet another reason to go Locavore and create a family feast of more heritage tastes, not created for the commercial marketplace.
Try a vintage Broad-Breasted Bronze turkey. It was the industry standard before 1960, and they're currently available by preorder through Grasshoppers Distribution, 1501 Portland Avenue, in Louisville. These birds are listed on conservation priority lists in part because the breed's creation sacrificed the ability to reproduce without artificial insemination. Slow Food USA acknowledges the Broad-Breasted Bronze as in danger of extinction. Buying for consumption means farmers will continue to raise these beautiful, flavorful birds, protecting the species for special-market Thanksgivings to come.
Preordered turkeys will be available for pickup Monday and Tuesday the week of Thanksgiving. They are free-ranged and foraged, and fresh from the Schacht Family Farm near Bloomington, Indiana. Turkeys will weigh between 15 and 25 pounds, and cost $4.75 per pound. (A $50 deposit is required to reserve your turkey.)
During turkey pick up hours on Monday from Noon-6p.m., and Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Grasshoppers will have locally-grown vegetables for sale to complement your Thanksgiving dinner. Place your order today by calling 502-708-1881, or email grasshoppers@insightbb.com.
Contact the writer at rachel@hurdanger.com.
Photo: Courtesy of HomesteadHatchery
