
Turkey eggs are hard to find in shops and are not farmed as widely as chicken eggs. In fact, it’s hard to find a turkey egg farmer!
However, this doesn’t mean it’s not worth eating turkey eggs. Lots of people (including us) prefer turkey eggs, especially when the turkeys are free ranging. Even better if the turkeys are heritage turkeys!!
What is the difference between chicken eggs and turkey eggs?
The main differences between turkey eggs and chicken eggs are:
1. Is the shell color different on a turkey egg?
Chicken eggs have a yellowish-white colored shell with brown spots on them. These spots give the egg its characteristic appearance. However, turkey eggs do not have these spots. Instead, their shells are often white in color. Heritage turkeys have a wide range of shell colors and patterns.
2. Does a turkey egg taste different?
Turkey eggs aren’t that different from a chicken egg when it comes to taste. Some people prefer them, and eat them regularly. Turkey eggs are slightly richer than chicken eggs, and they have a stronger flavor.
3. Is a turkey egg the same size as a chicken egg?
Turkey eggs are bigger than chicken eggs with thicker shells. This can make it hard to crack them open, however, if they are cooked well they are worth the effort!
4. Is a turkey egg the same texture as a chicken egg?
Turkey eggs are firmer than chicken eggs. This gives them a different texture. It is more difficult to peel off the shell when compared to chicken eggs.
5. Is a turkey egg yolk different to a chicken egg yolk?
Egg yolks from turkey are darker than those from chicken eggs, making them appear redder.
6. Is a turkey egg healthier than a chicken egg?
Turkey eggs are nutritionally similar to chicken eggs, although they are slightly fattier and more calorific, even when you adjust for their larger size. The average turkey egg contains 135 calories to a chicken egg’s 72, with 9 grams of fat versus 5 grams for chicken eggs.
Why don’t we eat Turkey Eggs?
There are many reasons why we don’t eat turkey eggs. One reason is that they are more expensive to farm. The average commercial laying chicken hen will lay up to 325 eggs a year. A turkey will only lay around 150.
Also the turkey is larger and needs more food. As a result it is easier and more cost effective for farmers to go for chickens rather than turkeys. This simple reason is why turkey eggs are hard to get hold of.
If you want to try turkey eggs, you can order them online or head down to a local homestead near you that has turkeys on their farm. It’s worth the effort, we promise.
How to cook Turkey Eggs?
If you want to enjoy turkey eggs, you first need to prepare them properly. Here are some tips on how to cook them:
Frying a turkey egg
What you need:
- 1 Turkey Egg
- 1 Nonstick Pan
- Salt
- Vegetable Oil
1. Put the oil in the pan, warm to a high heat
2. Crack the turkey egg gentle into the pan to ensure the inside of the egg stays intact
3. Fry until the egg white is firm throughout, including on top.
4. Sprinkle some salt across the top of the egg
5. If you want to harden the top of the yolk, flip over for 30 seconds for a sunny side down turkey egg.
6. Remove the egg from the pan and plate up!