Turkey: The Unsung Hero of Grilling Season

Ohio's turkey farmers are sharing their tried-and-true grilling tips + tricks, plus their favorite recipes in honor of National Turkey Lovers' Month! Turkey's versatility as a protein makes it a great choice for cooking methods outside of traditional roasting - like grilling! With a little practice and our quick tips, you'll be well on your way to becoming a turkey grilling expert!

Before you fire up the grill, remember to practice proper food safety during backyard cookouts this summer by following the Core Four Practices of Food Safety to keep you and your crew food safe.

• Clean your hands and kitchen surfaces often. Scrub your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds before and after handling raw meat and be sure to sanitize counters and other surfaces.
• Separate cutting boards, mixing bowls, plates and utensils for raw turkey than you use for other ingredients.
• Cook turkey and use a digital meat thermometer to verify the thickest part reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
• Chill any leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours of being cooked. Discard any food that has been sitting out for more than two hours (one hour if the outdoor temperature is above 90°F).

Turkey is a natural fit for the grill or smoker, and its versatility makes it the perfect protein to let your pitmaster skills speak for themselves. Feeling a little intimidated? Determine which cut of turkey is best for your grill.

Once your turkey is prepped and ready to go, check out these tips for grilling low & slow:

Skip the direct flame. Large cuts cook more evenly over indirect heat.

Think "next to the heat," not "over the heat." Indirect grilling helps prevent burning while locking in moisture.

For charcoal grills: Bank coals to one side or around the edges and place turkey in the open zone.

For gas grills: Turn one burner off and place turkey over the unlit section.

Keep the lid closed. Consistent heat is key to low-and-slow success.

Use a foil pan underneath. It catches drippings and helps prevent flare-ups.

Ohio turkey farmers are proud to provide healthy, safe, affordable turkey to Ohioans and nationwide. Ohio farmers produce over 275 million pounds of turkey every year.