Where Did Turkeys Originate?
Turkeys are not actually native birds in the UK. They were first brought into the UK from Mexico during the early sixteenth century after British merchants purchased them from Spanish conquistadors. Native Mexican residents had spent many years domesticating Turkeys, so they weren’t considered wild animals when they were brought into the UK.
For over two centuries in the UK, the Norfolk Black turkey was bred before being transported back to the Americas by European colonists. It is believed that the Norfolk Black turkey is a direct descendent of the earliest stock of turkey purchased by British merchants. Over time, this breed’s popularity progressively lowered, and it is now a rare find in both the UK and the USA. While turkey was quite costly in the 16th century, the tradition of eating turkey at Christmas gained popularity as turkey farms spread across the UK. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that the turkey Christmas dinner became the norm for families throughout the UK.
Why Do We Have Turkey at Christmas?
Wondering why we have turkey on Christmas day? During his time on the throne, King Henry VIII decided to swap out his traditional goose for a turkey on Christmas day. After this, King Edward VII took to the delicacy and popularised having turkeys for Christmas. Since this time, it rapidly became a tradition amongst people in Britain and hence why we eat turkey on the 25th December now!
A lot of farmers also saw it as a cost-effective option to use turkeys, as they could use their chickens and cows for the production of eggs and milk. In 1843, Charles Dickens even wrote about choosing turkey as the main Christmas meat in his world-famous book ‘A Christmas Carol’. People may choose to enjoy it whole, diced or as a roll – each is just as delicious!
Is Turkey the Best Meat For Christmas – Popular Alternatives
Having turkeys for Christmas isn’t everybody’s favourite meat and it may go against certain religions, so we have provided a list of other popular alternatives to consider.
Ham
Ham is another extremely popular type of Christmas meat served either on the day or on Boxing Day with leftovers. It is most commonly simmered, roasted then glazed with people’s favourite ingredients to make a delicious meal that will last for days.
Goose
Before the turkey Christmas dinner became widely popular, the goose was the preferred bird of choice. A lot of families still enjoy eating this as it is loaded with vitamins and as a whole, it is one of the cheaper Christmas meat options.
Chicken
A lot of people find turkeys too dry, so make the substitution of chicken. They are also a lot smaller than turkeys, so are more convenient for families that don’t have a large cooking space.
Beef
Beef is one of the most popular choices for a Sunday roast, and has also made its way into the traditional Christmas dinner. Slow-cooking beef in its natural juices can be a game changer for those who don’t enjoy having a turkey Christmas dinner.
Pork
Having pork as the main meal during Christmas time is specifically popular in Norway and Romania, but can be enjoyed all over the world. Also, who doesn’t love pigs in blankets? They are a renowned side dish for families worldwide.
Try Our Best Turkeys for Christmas This Year
Now you have learned where the turkeys originally came from and why having turkeys for Christmas is such a popular tradition, you can plan on ordering the perfect one for Christmas Day. Check out our range of festive classic products for you to enjoy alongside friends or family members. If you can’t decide on what turkey product to choose, we also offer Christmas boxes that has something for everybody!
About the Author.
R Owton Wholesale Butchers
Traditional Family ButchersThe Owton family have been farming the land at Chalcroft Farm for over 750 years, and in business since 1976, so you can be sure we have the experience, knowledge and expertise about all things meat! We specialise in butchering locally sourced and traceable meat, working with over 40 farmers within Hampshire and Dorset to offer some of the finest meat produce in the south.
