Leg Woman

I admit it. I have what can only be labeled an obsession. I am a turkey leg fanatic. And this weekend, I got a fix.

This weekend, the hubby and I headed to Ellijay, GA to do some apple picking. Turns out the actual picking - at the orchard we chose - left a bit to be desired. But the afternoon proved to be quite the cultural experience... more on that later. What must be mentioned first, is that I got to gnaw on a smoked turkey leg. And it was pure heaven.

My obsession started years ago. I don't remember when or where I had my first gargantuan drumstick. But for as long as I can remember, at every theme park & street festival they have called my name. There is just something about their juicy, smokey goodness. It must be some sort of primal instinct to devour meat straight from the bone.

When we pulled up to the orchard I gasped - so much so, my husband looked at me afraid that he was about to hit someone with our car. With wide eyes and drool running down my chin I pointed to the sign screaming those 3 words that I yearn to read: SMOKED TURKEY LEGS. We hastily parked the car and scrambled into the orchard only to discover that the bizarre back-woods leg smoker had just sold out and it would be 45 minutes (this calculation took quite some time to figure out) until he had another batch ready. Did this mean I would have to forfeit a turkey leg? With the smokey aroma teasing me, I wasn't sure I could walk away without satisfaction! Thankfully, the hubby understands my obsession and was willing to wait around for another batch to be finished. And let me tell you, it was worth the wait.

The leg was cooked to perfection. Perfectly smoked pink with a crispy skin, the grease dripped down my chin with every bite. Here's the thing about turkey legs, they are generally sold in public places. And there is just no ladylike way to eat one. Turkey legs require a commitment. One must willingly set aside all semblance of propriety and dig in face first. But let me tell you, when that sacrifice is made, the reward is great.

So while the thought of it may might make some people gag, I ate it... and that turkey leg was totally delicious.