INTRODUCTION
The holiday season is creeping up fast. It’s a time for traditions, gathering with loved ones, and indulging in delicious meals. For many, the centerpiece of Christmas dinner has long been the turkey, but what if we told you there’s an alternative that can make your holiday feast even more special? Consider replacing the traditional turkey with a cockerel this Christmas - it used to be the centrepiece of the festive feast up until turkey was introduced in the 16th century. Let us tell you why opting for a cockerel can be a smart and delicious choice for your festive table.
1. UNIQUE FLAVOUR PROFILE
Cockerels, also known as young male chickens, offer a unique flavour profile that sets them apart from turkeys. Their meat is tender, succulent, and bursting with flavour. Cockerel meat is slightly more robust and gamey, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more distinctive taste in their holiday meal. The depth of flavour in cockerel meat can elevate your Christmas dinner to a whole new level.
"This is a fine-looking bird, with beautiful golden skin and tender flesh. The meat has plenty of flavour and texture, and it is tender and succulent, not tough. Judges particularly liked its distinctive character, depth of flavour and juicy, tender flesh. It would make a good alternative to turkey at Christmas." - GREAT TASTE JUDGES COMMENT.
2. SUPPORT LOCAL FARMERS
Choosing a cockerel for your Christmas dinner can also be a way to support local farmers like us, and promote sustainable agriculture. By purchasing poultry from local farms, you contribute to your community’s economy and help maintain the viability of small-scale, ethical farming practices. This sustainable approach to food sourcing can be a rewarding and responsible choice during the holiday season.
3. VERSATILE PORTION SIZES
Cockerels come in a range of sizes, you can have the smaller birds that are typically smaller than turkeys, making them an ideal choice for smaller gatherings or families looking to reduce food waste. A cockerel can be a wonderful option for intimate Christmas celebrations or when catering to a smaller group of guests. That being said, our cockerels can also feed a large gathering of up to 18 people! With a higher meat yield than intensively reared birds, you'll certainly be getting value for money.
4. VERSATILE COOKING OPTIONS
Cockerels are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. You can roast, grill, smoke, or even deep-fry them to achieve the perfect flavour and texture. Their adaptability makes it easy to experiment with different cooking techniques and flavours to create a unique and memorable Christmas dinner. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or a novice cook, working with a cockerel can be an exciting culinary adventure.
5. VARIETY OF SEASONINGS AND STUFFINGS
Cockerel’s distinctive flavour pairs well with a wide range of seasonings and stuffings. Whether you prefer traditional herbs and spices or want to experiment with unique flavour combinations, a cockerel can be the canvas for your culinary creativity. You can infuse it with herbs, citrus, or even marinate it in a special sauce to suit your taste and style.
CONCLUSION
While the turkey has been a beloved Christmas tradition for many, considering a cockerel as an alternative can bring new excitement to your holiday feast and is perfect for those who prefer a moist, succulent meat that's tender and flavoursome. Its unique flavour, support for local farmers, versatility in cooking, and compatibility with a variety of seasonings make it a savvy choice for your Christmas dinner. Embrace the opportunity to create a memorable and delicious holiday meal by choosing a cockerel as your festive centerpiece this year.
A Packington Christmas cockerel is only available once a year. Reared to the highest standards and winning top industry awards consistently, so make yours a Packington Christmas!
You can order one of our tasty Christmas cockerels now, with free home delivery Order here> to secure your festive centrepiece.