by Jodie Fitz
It’s hard to believe, and maybe I’m a bit in denial, that the big day is only a couple of weeks away! So…it’s time to grab that shopping/planning list and get to work organizing your dinner plans.
Whether you’re cooking the entire dinner, in charge of the side dishes, or on the list to bring dessert, the Saratoga Farmer’s Market has a lot of options to consider and offer. Vendors at the market even have you covered if you’re going vegetarian for the holiday; farmers at the market are well-stocked with a plentiful array of fresh vegetables. However, it’s the typical main attraction that we are really ready to talk about: the turkey! Yes, the Saratoga Farmers’ Market can even help you with farm-fresh turkeys that have been locally raised.
Who sells locally grown turkeys at the market? When you visit the market this week, stop by one of these vendors to find out more about how to order, pick up, and store one of their farm-fresh turkeys for Thanksgiving;
● Grazin’ Acres Farm
● Hepitica Farm, LLC
● Jireh Organic Farm & Livestock of New York State
Is it too early to pick up a turkey? Not if you’re planning to pop it in the freezer. If you pick up your turkey from the farmers’ market the weekend before Thanksgiving, the vendor(s) can guide you on what to do with your turkey.
How many days does it take to thaw a turkey? Plan on placing your wrapped turkey on a baking sheet, breast side up, in the refrigerator, and plan for approximately one day for every four to five pounds.
How big of a turkey should I buy? Plan on 1 1/2 pounds of uncooked turkey per person when planning your turkey purchase.
How long does it take to cook a turkey? Cooking directions should be located on the packaging. The length of cooking time depends on the size of the bird and whether you are stuffing it or not. However, you should plan on baking your turkey at 325 degrees, and the meat thermometer should read 165 degrees in the center for it to be fully cooked.
Did someone say stuffing? Look for next week’s article to learn a little more about our thoughts on this yummy side dish.
This week’s Recipe: Accidental Turkey
The Saratoga Farmers’ Market will be open on Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. from November through April at the Wilton Mall Food Court, accessible from the mall entrance across from BJs or the mall interior. Find us online at www.saratogafarmersmarket.org, where you can sign up for our weekly newsletter and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
