Now that November is here, it is time to start thinking about turkey! If you are looking for heritage turkeys in particular, we have a number of sources for you to check out. You might be wondering what the difference is between a heritage turkey and an organic turkey. A heritage turkey is a domestic variety that has retained historic characteristics and is raised in a way that is more in line with the natural behavior and life-spans of a wild turkey. On the other hand, an organic turkey is less about the breed and more about the land the turkey is raised on, the feed it is given, the lack of antibiotics, and the general access a turkey gets to the outdoors. That being said, these terms are not mutually exclusive!

Here are a few places to find the perfect turkey this fall:

Blackbelly

Fresh local turkeys raised on free range at Peterson Turkey Farm in Lakewood, Colorado. Birds range from 14-18 lbs. Gravy, stuffing, and traditional sides will also be available for purchase separately in the shop the 3 days prior to the holiday. Turkeys will be available for pick-up Monday Nov. 21 – Wed. Nov. 23.

Orders must be made in advance, in person, over the phone [720-479-8296] or by email: sam@blackbelly.com

Marczyk Fine Foods

Ambrosia Farm Heritage Turkey ($8.99/lb) – For all those die-hard locavores this Blue Slate heritage turkey is not only sustainably and humanely raised, but also really flavorful and delicious.  They visit the farm in Bennett, CO each year so they can see what happy, healthy (and even friendly!) turkeys these are. To learn more about what makes these birds so special and why it’s important to support Ambrosia Farm, visit their latest blog about heritage turkeys.

Visit their website to fill out the pre-order form, or place your order next time you are in the market!

Western Daughters Butcher Shoppe

This year Western Daughters is offering two varieties of heritage turkeys. The first is from BN Ranch in Bolinas, California and the second is a pasture-raised Blue Slate turkey from High Plains Co-Op in Bennett, Colorado. They will be smoking birds for an extra fee and will have turkey stock and gravy on a first come, first serve basis.

It is required to fill out these forms (page 1, and page 2). Either print the forms and bring them into one of their two locations or email them at info@westerndaughters.com

Natural Grocers

Mary’s Free-Range Heritage Turkeys are a unique American tradition (and will be selling for $6.99/lb). These birds are fed a high protein diet and have plenty of room to roam in the fresh air. The result is a dark, flavorful meat sure to be the centerpiece of any meal. Place your order here if you are interested in Mary’s Turkeys.

Whole Foods

Heritage turkey availability varies on location, but check out their general principles concerning turkey, and give your local Whole Foods a call to inquire about their turkey options.

Lastly, if these options don’t fit your needs, try talking to your local market or butcher to see if they are offering heritage turkeys this Thanksgiving!

Slow Regards.