Hearty Marinated Turkey Drumstick Stew
Nutritional value per serving
Calories450kcal
Carbs15gram
Fat20gram
Protein40gram
Ingredients
- Turkey drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on for best flavor) - Choose fresh, plump drumsticks without any discoloration or unpleasant odor.4 pieces
- Olive oil (for marinating and cooking) - Use extra virgin for best flavor.3 tbsp
- Garlic cloves (minced) - Fresh is best for aromatic flavor.3 pieces
- Onion (medium, finely chopped) - Choose a firm onion with no soft spots.1 piece
- Carrots (peeled and chopped) - Select firm, bright orange carrots for sweetness.2 pieces
- Celery stalks (chopped) - Fresh and crisp celery adds great flavor.2 pieces
- Tomato paste - Provides richness and depth to the sauce.2 tbsp
- Chicken or vegetable broth (low sodium) - Adds moisture and flavor for stewing.500 ml
- Dried thyme - A classic herb that complements turkey well.1 tsp
- Bay leaf - For a subtle, aromatic flavor.1 piece
- Salt - To taste, enhances all flavors.to taste n/a
- Black pepper (freshly ground) - To taste, adds mild heat and depth.to taste n/a
- Lemon juice (freshly squeezed) - Brightens and balances flavors in the marinade.2 tbsp
- Soy sauce (optional for marinade) - Adds umami richness and color.1 tbsp
This recipe guides you to create a deliciously tender and flavorful stewed turkey drumstick dish using simple ingredients and straightforward methods, perfect for home cooks of all skill levels. The marinated turkey drumsticks simmer in a tasty sauce to achieve rich depth and comfort in every bite. The total cost for ingredients is approximately $12, €11, £9, and ₹900. The dish is approximately 450 kcal per serving, fits well within a high-protein, moderate-fat diet, and is of medium difficulty due to the marinating and stewing process. Total preparation and cooking time is about 2 hours, including marination. Food safety is prioritized, ensuring turkey reaches a safe internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) to prevent any risk of foodborne illness.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the turkey drumsticks and marinate
1Combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, soy sauce (if using), salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add turkey drumsticks and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for deeper flavor. This step tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor.
Chop vegetables for stewing
2While the turkey marinates, chop the onion, carrots, and celery. This mirepoix will form the aromatic base of the stew, contributing sweetness and depth of flavor.
Sear the marinated turkey
3Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Remove turkey from marinade (discard used marinade) and sear drumsticks until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step locks in juices and develops flavor through caramelization.
Sauté the vegetables
4Remove turkey temporarily onto a plate. In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables soften and start to brown slightly, enhancing their natural sweetness and flavor.
Add tomato paste and herbs
5Stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for 2 minutes to allow the tomato paste to develop and meld with vegetables, enriching the stew's base.
Return turkey and add broth
6Return the seared turkey drumsticks to the pot. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth until the drumsticks are about 3/4 submerged. This liquid will slowly cook the meat, resulting in a tender stew.
Simmer slowly
7Bring the stew to a low boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for about 1 hour, turning the drumsticks occasionally. Slow cooking breaks down connective tissue, making the meat tender and juicy.
Check internal temperature and seasoning
8After 1 hour, check the turkey's internal temperature using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part without touching bone. It should reach at least 74°C (165°F) to ensure safety. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve and garnish
9Remove bay leaf. Serve the turkey drumsticks and vegetables hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or rice. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired for a bright finish.
Cooking Tips
1For a deeper flavor, marinate turkey overnight in the refrigerator.
2Always use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature for food safety.
3Avoid cross-contamination by using separate utensils and surfaces for raw turkey and other ingredients.
4If you don’t have chicken broth, water with a bouillon cube or vegetable broth works as a substitute.
5Add a splash of white wine during the simmering stage for a subtle acidity and complexity.
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl for marinating
- Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven with lid
- Knife and cutting board
- Meat thermometer
- Stirring spoon
- Measuring spoons and cups
Shopping List
- [ ] Turkey drumsticks (~4 pieces, approx. $8) - Choose fresh and firm drumsticks for juiciness.
- [ ] Olive oil (~3 tbsp, approx. $0.50) - Use extra virgin for best flavor.
- [ ] Garlic (~3 cloves, approx. $0.30) - Fresh cloves give best aroma.
- [ ] Onion (~1 medium, approx. $0.60) - Firm texture with no soft spots.
- [ ] Carrots (~2 pieces, approx. $0.80) - Bright orange and firm.
- [ ] Celery (~2 stalks, approx. $0.70) - Crisp and fresh.
- [ ] Tomato paste (~2 tbsp, approx. $0.40) - Adds rich tomato flavor.
- [ ] Chicken or vegetable broth (500 ml, approx. $1.50) - Prefer low sodium.
- [ ] Dried thyme (~1 tsp, approx. $0.10) - Adds herbal notes.
- [ ] Bay leaf (~1 piece, approx. $0.05) - Aromatic herbal flavor.
- [ ] Lemon (for 2 tbsp juice, approx. $0.40) - Freshly squeezed for brightness.
- [ ] Soy sauce (~1 tbsp, optional, approx. $0.20) - Adds umami depth.
- [ ] Salt and black pepper - Pantry staples.
Total approximate cost: $12
Shop for fresh produce and poultry with good color and firmness. Avoid packages with excess liquid.
FAQ
How long should I marinate the turkey drumsticks?
Marinate for at least 1 hour; for best flavor and tenderness, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
What internal temperature should the turkey reach for safe eating?
Turkey should reach an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) measured with a meat thermometer in the thickest part to be safe to eat.
Can I prepare this stew without searing the turkey first?
While searing adds flavor and color, you can skip it, but the stew will have a milder taste and lighter color.
How can I store leftovers safely?
Cool leftovers quickly and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Consume within 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.