Are you looking for a cozy and comforting weekend dinner idea? Look no further because this recipe for Turkey Neck is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly delicious. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying dish that will leave you wanting more. So, let’s dive into the details and discover how to make the most out of turkey necks!
The Secret to Mouthwatering Turkey Necks
Turkey necks may not be a common choice, but trust me, they are a hidden gem when it comes to flavor and juiciness. These tender and succulent pieces of dark meat can elevate any dish to the next level. However, cooking them to perfection requires time and a few key techniques.
How do you Clean Turkey Necks?
Before we get into the cooking process, let’s start by preparing the turkey necks. To ensure they are clean and ready to be cooked, follow these simple steps. Place the turkey necks in a plastic bag and seal it. Then, fill a bucket halfway with cold water and submerge the turkey entirely. Make sure to change the water every 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can defrost the frozen turkey necks in the microwave.
Getting the Perfect Texture
The key to achieving a melt-in-your-mouth texture is to sear and braise the turkey necks. Start by browning the turkey necks in a heated skillet until they are golden brown on both sides. This step helps to lock in the flavors and create a delicious crust. Once the turkey necks are nicely seared, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a clean plate.
In the same skillet, sauté onions and minced garlic until they become aromatic. This will add a depth of flavor to the dish. Then, return the turkey necks to the skillet and deglaze with chicken broth. Cover with a lid and let them bake in the oven for 1 hour and 50 minutes to 2 hours. The result will be incredibly tender and flavorful turkey necks that are perfect for serving over mashed potatoes or rice.
Ingredients and Instructions
To make this mouthwatering turkey neck recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- Turkey necks weighing 5 pounds
- 1 tbsp. salt (kosher)
- 1 tbsp. Cajun spice mixture
- Two tblsp. grape seed oil
- 29 oz chicken broth (low sodium) (2-14.5 ounce cans)
- A dozen onions chopped
- Four cloves of garlic (minced)
Follow these simple instructions to achieve the best results:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Wash and dry the turkey necks thoroughly using paper towels. Season them with kosher salt and Cajun spice blend to taste.
- Heat a dutch oven or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat and add cooking oil. Sear both sides of the turkey necks for about 8 minutes in the dutch oven. Transfer the seared turkey necks to a clean platter and set them aside.
- If needed, add more oil to the same dutch oven and sauté the onions and minced garlic until they become aromatic. Deglaze with chicken broth and add more broth if needed.
- Return the browned turkey necks to the dutch oven, cover with the lid, and cook in the oven for 1 hour and 50 minutes to 2 hours.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and serve the tender turkey necks over mashed potatoes or rice. Don’t forget to serve them with the flavorful pan juices on the side.
Expert Tips and Recommendations
- For an extra kick of flavor, season the turkey necks with your favorite seasoning blend in addition to the Cajun spice mixture.
- Make sure to use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
- You can also experiment with different side dishes to accompany your turkey necks. Try serving them with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to add some variety to your meal.
Remember, cooking turkey necks takes time and patience, but the result is definitely worth it. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a comforting and delicious weekend dinner.
For more food inspiration and exciting recipes, visit Ekilove. Happy cooking!
