Tender and Juicy Slow-Cooked Turkey Drumstick
Nutritional value per serving
Calories350kcal
Carbs5gram
Fat15gram
Protein40gram
Ingredients
- Turkey drumsticks (fresh, skin-on preferred)2 pieces
- Low-sodium chicken broth or water250 ml
- Garlic cloves (minced)3 pieces
- Fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)2 tbsp
- Fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)2 tbsp
- Salt (preferably kosher salt)1 tsp
- Black pepper (freshly ground)0.5 tsp
- Olive oil (extra virgin)1 tbsp
Discover the simple joy of slow-cooked turkey drumstick that's not only healthy but also irresistibly tender and juicy. This recipe uses minimal ingredients and common kitchen tools, making it perfect for home cooks of all skill levels. The slow cooking method locks in flavor and moisture, resulting in a delicious and nutritious meal. The estimated total cost of ingredients is approximately $10, €9, £8, or ₹800. Each serving contains about 350 kcal, with high protein and moderate fat content, making it suitable for a balanced diet. Difficulty level is easy, and the total cooking time is around 6 hours. Follow food safety guidelines including cooking turkey to an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the turkey drumsticks
1Rinse the turkey drumsticks under cold running water and pat dry with paper towels. This helps remove any packaging residue. Always wash hands thoroughly after handling raw poultry to avoid cross-contamination.
Season the drumsticks
2Rub the turkey drumsticks all over with olive oil. Then season evenly with salt, pepper, minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme. The olive oil helps seal in moisture and herbs infuse flavor during cooking.
Place in slow cooker with broth
3Put the seasoned turkey drumsticks in the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth (or water) into the slow cooker around the drumsticks. This liquid will keep the meat moist during slow cooking.
Slow cook the turkey
4Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on low heat for 6 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The low and slow method ensures the meat becomes tender and juicy.
Check for doneness and safe internal temperature
5Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the turkey drumstick without touching the bone. Turkey is safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). If it's not reached, continue cooking and recheck every 15-20 minutes.
Rest before serving
6Once cooked, remove the drumsticks from the slow cooker and let rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist when cutting.
Cooking Tips
1For crispier skin, you can broil the drumsticks in the oven for 3-5 minutes after slow cooking.
2Use fresh herbs for brighter flavor, but dried herbs work well too.
3Avoid opening the slow cooker lid frequently during cooking to maintain temperature.
4Make sure to clean all surfaces and utensils that touched raw turkey to prevent cross-contamination.
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker
- Meat thermometer
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Small bowl for mixing seasonings
Shopping List
- [ ] Turkey drumsticks (fresh, skin-on preferred) – approx. $6.50. Look for plump and firm meat with no off smell.
- [ ] Fresh garlic – approx. $0.50. Choose firm bulbs with tight skin.
- [ ] Fresh rosemary – approx. $1.00. Select bright green sprigs.
- [ ] Fresh thyme – approx. $1.00. Choose fresh leaves that are not wilted.
- [ ] Low-sodium chicken broth – approx. $1.50. Opt for brands with low sodium or make at home.
- [ ] Olive oil – stock staple; approx. $0.50 for needed amount.
Total approximate cost: $10
FAQ
Can I use frozen turkey drumsticks?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can cook the drumsticks in a covered oven-safe dish at 150°C (300°F) for about 3 hours until tender, checking periodically.
How do I know if the turkey is safe to eat?
Always use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F) in the thickest part of the meat, avoiding bones.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Yes, you can add hearty vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions around the turkey drumsticks for a complete meal.