Turkey ass also known as the parson’s nose or pope’s nose refers to the fatty, fleshy section at the back end of a turkey, opposite the breast. While many home cooks discard this odd-looking piece, turkey ass has a distinct taste when used properly in recipes. Keep reading for a complete guide to turkey ass including what it’s called, how it tastes, and how to cook it.
Anatomy of Turkey Ass
The turkey ass consists of three edible components:
- Skin and fat cap
- Cartilaginous tail vertebrae
- Muscle meat surrounding the vertebrae
This combination of skin, bones, and dark meat makes turkey ass well-suited for adding rich flavor and body to dishes like soup stock, stew, and stuffing. The skin can also be enjoyed crispy-fried as a snack when cooked properly.
Other Names for Turkey Ass
Turkey ass is known by several colorful colloquial terms including
- Parson’s nose
- Pope’s nose
- Sultan’s nose
- Turkey tail
- Turkey butt
The most popular theory behind the name “parson’s nose” is that the shape resembles the nose of a stereotypical parson or minister
Flavor and Texture
Compared to lean white breast meat, turkey ass has a more pronounced turkey flavor thanks to its higher fat content. When fried up crispy, the skin takes on an incredibly crunchy and indulgent texture contrasting the juicy, succulent meat.
The abundant connective tissue melts into rich gelatin when slowly simmered, making turkey ass a great addition to soups and broths. It improves body, texture, and savoriness.
Nutritional Value
Turkey ass provides protein, fat, and minerals like iron, zinc, and calcium from the bones. However, the fat content is high so it should be eaten in moderation.
When simmered, the skin, bones, and connective tissue release collagen, gelatin, and glucosamine, compounds associated with joint and gut health.
How to Cook Turkey Ass
Proper preparation is key to making the most of turkey ass. Here are some cooking methods:
-
Make stock – Simmer turkey ass in water to extract flavors and collagen into a gelatinous, concentrated turkey stock perfect for soups and gravy.
-
Fortify stuffing – Dice up the meat and add it to stuffing for extra moisture and savoriness.
-
Deep fry the skin – Score the skin, then fry at 350°F until super crispy and golden brown for a crunchy garnish or snack.
-
Braise in liquid – Slow cook turkey ass in flavorful liquid like wine, broth, or barbecue sauce until fork tender and pull apart into succulent shreds.
How to Prepare Turkey Ass
To prepare turkey ass for cooking:
- Clean thoroughly, removing any feathers or external fat
- Trim off excess skin and fat if desired
- Score the skin before frying to render the fat and make it extra crispy
- Smash or chop bones when making stock to release marrow
How to Store Turkey Ass
Fresh turkey ass will last 2-3 days refrigerated. For longer storage, freeze turkey ass in an airtight container for several months. Thaw frozen turkey ass in the refrigerator before using.
Unique Flavor Worth Exploring
While turkey ass may not look particularly appetizing at first glance, its complex flavor and texture make it worth exploring in the kitchen. With some simple prep and strategic cooking methods, the skin can become an indulgent snack, while the meat and bones can elevate the depth of flavor in soups, stocks, and stews. Next time you roast a turkey, consider setting aside the ass to experiment with this underutilized and uniquely flavored part of the bird.
Key Facts About Turkey Ass:
-
The turkey ass is the fatty area at the back of the bird near the tail.
-
It’s also called the parson’s nose, pope’s nose, sultan’s nose, turkey butt or turkey tail.
-
When fried crispy, the skin is crunchy while the dark meat is juicy.
-
Simmered in liquid, turkey ass adds rich flavor and body thanks to collagen.
-
Clean thoroughly before cooking and remove excess fat and skin.
-
Fry, braise, or use in stock for the best results.
-
Provides some protein, fat, and minerals but high in fat so eat in moderation.
With its distinct taste and texture, turkey ass can transform dishes when used properly. Follow these tips to make the most of this unique and flavorful part of the bird.
Articles Related to turkey
“Turkey.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/turkey. Accessed 19 Feb. 2025.
Norbit (2007) Turkey Ass (2/22)
FAQ
What is a turkey in slang?
- “Who would you say is 2021’s ‘SPORTS TURKEY OF THE YEAR’?”
- “What did you do that for, you turkey?”
- “Only a turkey would think it’s a good idea to go for a jog when the weather drops below zero”
What kind of meat is turkey tail?
“Actually it’s not the tail but a gland that attaches the tail to the turkey’s body. It’s filled with oil that the turkey uses to preen its feathers.” Many islanders think turkey tail is delicious. It’s also cheap but far from nutritious.
What is turkey tail supplement used for?
Turkey tail mushroom grows on stumps and the decomposing wood of trees. The PSP and PSK in turkey tail mushroom might help slow cancer growth and boost the immune system. People use turkey tail mushroom to improve response to cancer medicines and radiation.
What is the slang for a male turkey?
Gobbler – This is the adult male of the turkey species. This bird can weigh upwards of 25 plus pounds and has a beard that grows out of his chest along with spurs on his lower legs. The spur length signifies his age.
What is the difference between Turkey Breast and Turkey ass?
Compared to the lean breast meat, the turkey ass has a more pronounced turkey flavor thanks to its higher fat content. The skin is extremely crispy when fried, while the meat itself is juicy and succulent. The abundant connective tissue melts into rich gelatin when slowly cooked in liquid.
Does Turkey ass have nutritional value?
The turkey ass does contain some nutritional value, as it is a source of protein and fat. However, it is important to consume it in moderation, as it is a fatty cut of the turkey. It is best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence rather than a regular part of the diet.
What is a turkey butt mug?
Get the Turkey Butt mug. The condition of having one’s clothing stuck between the buttocks.When ones ass gobbels up their pants. A camel toe but from behind, a wedgie. “WOW! Look at that guys turkey butt” Get the turkey butt mug. Miley Cyruses display of her sad excuse for a butt at the 2013 VMAs. Get the the turkey butt mug.
How do you cook a Turkey ass?
When making stock, smash bones with a meat mallet to release marrow. Braise in liquid over low heat for 1-2 hours until tender. Shred or chop meat. Deep fry skin at 350°F until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Store fresh or cooked turkey ass in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
What does a turkey tail taste like?
A turkey tail is a cut of meat from the turkey that includes the tail feathers and the surrounding muscle tissue. It is a dark meat cut that is known for its rich flavor and juicy texture. Turkey tails can be roasted, smoked, or braised, and they make a great addition to a variety of dishes. What does turkey tails taste like?
Why do people eat turkey tails in Samoa?
In Samoa, for instance, turkey tails became deeply ingrained in the local food culture, consumed with gusto and often paired with a refreshing Budweiser. The convivial atmosphere surrounding its consumption further cemented its place as a beloved social food. The Health Concerns and the Ban that Wasn’t