Discovering Whole Foods Turkey: A Regenerative Choice for Your Table

For over four generations, the Diestel Family Ranch has prioritized values over compromise, producing delicious turkeys for families. Now, Jason and Heidi Diestel, representing the fourth generation, are partnering with Whole Foods Market to champion regenerative agriculture within their farm and the broader poultry industry.

This exploration into Whole Foods Turkey will uncover the meaning of regeneratively raised poultry for the Diestels and its potential to reshape our food system.

“It’s not just the turkey, it’s the whole system. You can be part of a system that degrades soil health, or you can be part of a system that improves soil health. And through your purchasing power, you can make those choices to say, ‘Hey, I want to be part of a system that is building the soil, that is improving the climate and ensuring that we have a farming system that will last for generations to come.’”

Ann Marie Hourigan, Quality Standards Executive Leader, Whole Foods Market

The Art of Roasting a Whole Foods Turkey

This guide provides a simple yet effective method to roast a whole turkey to achieve tender and juicy results every time.

Step 1: Preparation for Flavor

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). While the oven warms, remove your Whole Foods turkey from its packaging. If the turkey is not fully thawed, running it under cool water while still in its bag will expedite the process.*

Extract the neck and giblets from the turkey’s cavity. Rinse the turkey with cold water and pat it thoroughly dry with paper towels.

Generously coat the turkey with your preferred blend of herbs and spices. Alternatively, explore our family-inspired rub recipe (not provided in this article but easily searchable online for ‘turkey rub recipes’).

If stuffing is part of your tradition, this is the moment to stuff the turkey’s cavity.

Place the prepared turkey in an open roasting pan, breast side up. Pour approximately 2 cups of broth or water into the pan’s bottom to maintain moisture during roasting.

*Our Whole Foods turkeys are deep-chilled, ensuring they are never frozen. However, if your turkey has been frozen, ensure it is completely thawed before cooking for optimal results.

Step 2: Roasting to Golden Perfection

Position your turkey in the preheated oven and consult the roasting time chart below for estimated cooking duration. For unstuffed turkeys, reduce the listed cooking time by 30 minutes.

To enhance your gravy with rich drippings, consider heating 1 cup of white wine on the stovetop (do not boil) and pouring it over the turkey halfway through the roasting process. This step adds depth of flavor to both the turkey and the pan drippings.

As the turkey roasts, its internal temperature will rise more rapidly over time. Utilize a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature and prevent over-roasting. There’s no need to rotate the turkey; it will naturally develop a beautiful, golden-brown color that is truly irresistible. If you notice the turkey browning too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil.

While the turkey roasts, take the opportunity to set your table, building anticipation for the delicious meal to come. Once cooked, cover the turkey and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful turkey.

ROASTING TIMES GUIDE

*For unstuffed turkeys, subtract 30 minutes from the cooking times listed below.

Enjoy your perfectly roasted Whole Foods turkey, a choice that supports both delicious meals and a healthier planet.