Where to Buy Just the Delicious Dark Meat from a Turkey

For many people, the rich, savory dark meat of a turkey is the best part. The legs and thighs have a more succulent texture and bold, turkey flavor than the milder white breast meat. If you love dark turkey meat, you may be wondering if you can buy it separately. Luckily, there are several places you can purchase just the tasty dark meat cuts.

Deli Sections at Grocery Stores

One of the most convenient places to find packaged dark turkey meat is the deli counter at your grocery store Major chains like Kroger, Safeway, Publix, etc have deli sections that sell fresh pre-sliced lunchmeat and roasted turkey.

Look for turkey breast labeled as “dark meat.” Opt for quality brands like Boar’s Head Jennie-O or the store’s premium brand. The turkey will usually be sliced or chopped, fresh or smoked. Packages make it easy to toss right into your shopping cart.

Always check the ingredients to ensure it’s 100% real turkey without unnecessary fillers or chemicals

Butcher Shops and Specialty Meat Markets

For the freshest, highest quality dark turkey meat, visit a local butcher shop or specialty meat market. These experts often source whole fresh turkeys from nearby trusted farms.

At the counter, you can ask for specific dark meat cuts like turkey legs, thighs, drums, or wings. A turkey leg quarter contains both the thigh and drumstick. Or get a whole bone-in turkey breast half for recipes calling for it.

The cost is typically higher than the grocery store but the superior freshness and custom cuts are worth it.

Online Mail Order Turkey Companies

Ordering dark turkey meat online through mail order food companies is very convenient. Brands like Rastelli’s and Porter Road connect you with small family turkey farms across the country.

You can order precisely what you want, like boneless turkey thighs, drums, ground dark meat, and whole turkey breasts. Products are shipped frozen to your door in insulated packaging.

Going online makes finding rare cuts easy. And farms use humanely raised, antibiotic-free turkeys.

Direct from Local Turkey Farms

For the freshest, most local experience, buy directly from a nearby turkey farm, especially around Thanksgiving. You can custom order a whole pasture-raised turkey and request only the dark meat cuts.

Farms may also allow you to schedule a fresh turkey butchering where they prepare the exact dark meat parts you want. You’ll learn about their sustainable practices while getting the highest quality.

What to Look for When Buying Dark Turkey

Keep these tips in mind when purchasing dark turkey meat:

• Check the label specifies “dark meat”
• Confirm the ingredient list is 100% real turkey meat
• Look for uncured, unsmoked if possible
• Know where it came from – ask your butcher or read labels
• Consider certified organic, free-range, etc. for premium quality
• Check the sell-by date and pick the freshest option

Delicious Ways to Cook and Serve Dark Turkey Meat

Once you have your hands on some delicious dark turkey meat, what are some tasty ways to cook and eat it?

• Simmer bone-in turkey legs or thighs into a flavorful turkey ragu pasta sauce
• Dice and add to chili, stews, soups, and chilis for rich flavor
• Shred or chop to fill enchiladas, tacos, sandwiches, and more
• Grill or bake turkey drumsticks for easy anytime meals
• Fry or roast turkey wings as appetizers or snacks
• Use ground dark turkey meat to make juicy burgers or meatballs
• Layer sliced deli turkey on sandwiches, wraps, and salads

The succulent and supple texture of dark turkey meat makes it a very versatile ingredient. There are so many sources to purchase quality dark meat alone. Keep your cooking satisfying by stocking this turkey essential.