Turkey ribs are an interesting cut of meat that many backyard grill masters are just now discovering. Though the name implies they come from the rib section, turkey ribs are anatomically different than pork or beef ribs. I’ll explain exactly what part of the turkey these ribs are cut from, how they taste, where to buy them, and tips for cooking tender, juicy turkey ribs at home.
Turkey Ribs Don’t Actually Come from the Ribs
This is probably the most confusing aspect of turkey ribs. Unlike pork spare ribs or beef short ribs, turkey ribs do not come from the rib cage or sternum bone. The turkey does not have any true ribs!
Instead, turkey ribs come from the shoulder section near the breast They contain part of the scapula bone and some of the thicker shoulder meat When this area is cut into individual portions with the bone attached, they resemble “ribs” and are marketed as such.
So while not technically ribs the shape and bone-in quality of these turkey shoulder cuts allows them to be prepared similar to pork or beef ribs. The name “ribs” is basically just for marketing purposes since it sounds appetizing to rib lovers.
Why Are They Called Ribs if They’re Not Ribs?
Referring to this shoulder cut as “ribs” is a clever marketing tactic. Ribs are extremely popular so naming them as such generates interest. The shape vaguely resembles ribs even though the cut is not from the rib area.
Using the name ribs helps connect the product to pork ribs in the consumer’s mind. So while it may not be fully anatomically correct, calling them “turkey ribs” is an appealing, marketable name.
Flavor, Texture and Fat Content of Turkey Ribs
Since they come from the breast/shoulder area, turkey ribs are composed of white meat. This gives them a milder turkey flavor and far less fat than pork or beef ribs.
But many describe the texture as similar to pork ribs – tender and somewhat stringy when cooked properly. The bone adds moisture, strength, and richness as well.
When prepared using traditional rib techniques like rubs, sauces, and low-heat smoking or grilling, turkey ribs can have a classic barbecue rib experience. All the finger-licking, fall-off-the-bone enjoyment without the high saturated fat you’d get from pork or beef.
Where to Buy Turkey Ribs
Fresh turkey ribs may need to be special ordered from a butcher shop, but there are some easier options. Many specialty online meat shops like TK Gourmet, Kuck Farms, and Thrive Market sell fully cooked turkey ribs. They come vacuum sealed and ready to just reheat and eat.
Costco, restaurant supply stores, and large supermarket chains may also carry packaged pre-cooked turkey ribs, but stock can be sporadic. Talk to the meat manager at your grocery store to request them and see if they can get any in stock.
How to Cook Tender, Juicy Turkey Ribs
Proper technique is important when cooking turkey ribs to keep them from drying out. Since they have less fat than pork ribs, you can’t just cook low and slow for hours. It’s more about quick grilling or smoking with plenty of moisture.
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Apply a dry rub generously and let it penetrate the meat for 30-60 minutes before cooking.
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Smoke or grill using indirect heat around 300°F for 1-2 hours at most. Hickory, apple, or pecan wood add nice flavor.
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Brush with barbecue sauce regularly during the last 15-30 minutes but avoid burning.
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Grill or broil briefly on each side to finish.
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Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Let rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting to allow juices to redistribute.
Braising in broth or cooking in the oven wrapped in foil are other good options. Just don’t overcook them.
Why Try Turkey Ribs?
Compared to traditional ribs, turkey ribs have some advantages:
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Lower in fat, calories, and cholesterol than pork or beef ribs. The white meat is healthier.
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Less expensive per pound in most cases.
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Provide a change of pace with milder turkey flavor.
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Easier for those who don’t eat red meat or pork.
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Shorter cook time since they usually come pre-cooked.
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FAQ
What part of the turkey are turkey ribs?
- Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
- Marinate them in BBQ sauce or your favorite rub overnight.
- Grill them for 4–5 minutes per side.
- Smoke them to give them a smoky flavor.
- Place them in a fryer until they are browned and have reached a safe internal temperature.
How do you remove turkey ribs?
To remove rib cage, begin by placing your boning knife in between the rib cage and the breast meat. Carefully peel the meat away from the rib cage and down to the keel bone. Continue to peel breast meat off rib cage, making sure not to slice through the skin.
How are turkey ribs cut?
The method involves separating the scapula bone and its associated muscles from the turkey carcass. The turkey rib cut may be produced with the cutaneous tissues (turkey skin) attached to the associated muscles. The resulting turkey rib cut contains a larger percentage of meat and is easier to produce.
How long does it take to cook turkey ribs?
- Preheat oven to 325°F or 350°F
- Rub ribs with your favorite rub
- Place ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet
- Cover with foil and bake for 2–3.5 hours
- Uncover and broil for 5 minutes
What is a Turkey rib?
The bone and its adhering meat are sold as an individual cut and marketed as a “turkey rib”. The turkey rib cut produces a treat that are similar in appearance and consistency to pork or cattle ribs. These white meat bone-in morsels have the same lip-smacking flavor and bone-gnawing satisfaction of a pork rib, but with a lower fat content.
What are the diseases which affect our ribs?
Tietz syndrome is a condition that affect the cartilage that is connecting ribs to the sternum. It may cause intense inflammation of the cartilage causing chest pain and swelling. Costochondritis is also a condition that causes inflammation of the cartilage, mostly affecting the lower down ribs.
Are turkey ribs a pork rib?
Contrary to the name, turkey ribs are actually a shoulder cut of turkey meat. This delicious cut is typically considered a scrap piece and tossed out with the unwanted bits of the turkey carcass. What a shame, though, because the turkey shoulder has the most similar texture and flavor to a pork rib.
Where can I buy turkey ribs?
Turkey ribs are hard to find, and it is unlikely that your local supermarket or butcher will sell them. It’s always worth asking however. Some butchers might be willing to trim down a cut of turkey shoulder to give you ribs. Your best bet is to go online. The added benefit is that they should come prepared, ready to be thrown on the grill.
Are turkey ribs dry?
Slow-cooked in a vacuum-sealed package, our turkey ribs are moist, tasty and ready to accept many flavors. However, Turkey Ribs are slightly more susceptible to drying than pork or beef ribs. For your convenience, we have outlined several preparation techniques being successfully used by food service operators.
What is the difference between Turkey ribs and Turkey tips?
While turkey ribs come from a trimmed part of the shoulder area of the bird, turkey tips are something else entirely. They’re small bite-sized pieces of white turkey meat that are heavily marinated before grilled. They often use turkey thigh meat because it’s the juiciest and can provide a texture most similar to sirloin steak tips.