Turkey necks gently simmer in a rich, savory bath of chicken broth, garlic, and a fragrant mix of rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves until they turn fall apart tender. Caramelized onions and a touch of apple cider add mellow sweetness and bright tang, creating layers of cozy flavor in every bite. As the pot bubbles away, your kitchen fills with welcoming aromas that draw everyone closer to the table. Serve these herb kissed necks over creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread, and enjoy a bowl of comforting, homestyle goodness that feels like pure nostalgia.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This turkey necks
- Rich, savory flavor that warms your soul.
- Budget-friendly and packed with nutrients.
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
- Easy to customize with your favorite herbs.
- Brings comfort food vibes to your table.
turkey necks
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Season the turkey necks with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Make sure to coat them evenly for maximum flavor!
- Step 2: Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned turkey necks and brown them on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor!
- Step 3: Once the turkey necks are browned, remove them from the pot. In the same pot, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until they become translucent. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
- Step 4: Return the turkey necks to the pot. Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. The longer, the better for tender meat!
- Step 5: Once the turkey necks are tender, serve them hot. Enjoy your delicious, comforting meal!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbs | 5g |
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients for a deliciously comforting dish of turkey necks!
- 2 pounds turkey necks – main protein for the dish
- 1 large onion – diced, adds sweetness
- 3 cloves garlic – minced, for aromatic flavor
- 1 teaspoon paprika – adds depth and color
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – complements the herbs
- 1 teaspoon salt – enhances overall taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – for a hint of spice
- 4 cups chicken broth – rich base for braising
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – for browning the meat
How to Make turkey necks
Get ready for a delightful cooking adventure! This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1.5 to 2 hours to cook. You’ll have tender, savory necks to enjoy in no time!
Step 1: Season the turkey necks
Start by seasoning the necks with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Make sure to coat them evenly for maximum flavor!
Step 2: Brown the turkey necks
Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned turkey necks and brown them on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor!
Step 3: Sauté onion and garlic
Once the necks are browned, remove them from the pot. In the same pot, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until they become translucent. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
Step 4: Simmer the turkey necks
Return the necks to the pot. Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. The longer, the better for tender meat!
Step 5: Serve hot
Once the necks are tender, serve them hot. Enjoy your delicious, comforting meal!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 120 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 135 minutes |
| Dietary | Comfort Food |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Hot and comforting! |
Pro Tips for Making turkey necks
- Pat the the necks dry before seasoning for better flavor absorption.
- Brown the necks in a hot pan to enhance the savory depth.
- Add a splash of chicken broth instead of wine for moisture and flavor.
- Let the turkey necks rest after cooking for juicier meat.
- Pair with hearty sides like mashed potatoes or collard greens for a comforting meal.
How to Serve this turkey necks
- Serve over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
- Pair with steamed green beans or sautéed collard greens for a pop of color.
- Shred the meat and use it in tacos with fresh salsa and avocado.
- Top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing and enjoying your turkey necks later is easy!
Storing Leftovers
- Allow necks to cool completely.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Cool the necks completely before freezing.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of broth.
- Alternatively, use the microwave in short intervals.
- Ensure turkey necks are heated through before serving.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. Is a turkey neck good to eat?
Absolutely! Turkey necks are flavorful and can be quite tender when cooked properly. They are often used in soups, stews, and braised dishes, adding a rich taste and depth to your meals. Plus, they are a great source of protein and can be a budget-friendly option for hearty comfort food.
2. What is the best way to prepare turkey necks?
The best way to prepare turkey necks is to slow-braise them. Start by seasoning them with your favorite herbs and spices, then sear them in a pot to develop flavor. Add aromatics like garlic and onions, along with broth or water, and let them simmer gently until they are tender. This method ensures they are juicy and full of flavor.
3. How long does it take for turkey necks to be tender?
Typically, the necks will take about 2 to 3 hours to become tender when slow-braised. The low and slow cooking method allows the meat to break down and become succulent, so be patient and enjoy the delicious aromas filling your kitchen as they cook!
4. What do they call turkey neck?
Turkey necks are simply referred to as ‘turkey necks.’ In some regions, they may also be called ‘turkey gizzards’ when referring to the entire offal, but specifically, the neck is just known as turkey neck. They are often used in Southern cooking and are a beloved ingredient in many traditional dishes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about savoring a bowl of slow-braised turkey necks, isn’t there? This dish is not just easy to make; it’s a warm hug for your taste buds! So gather your loved ones, enjoy the delightful aroma, and dig in. You’ll find that comfort food doesn’t get much better than this!