Slow cooked Asian-style turkey breast served with garnish

Tender Asian-Style Slow Cooked Turkey Breast

Tender Asian-Style Slow Cooked Turkey Breast
easystar
4 hourtime

Nutritional value per serving

Calories280kcal

Carbs7gram

Fat8gram

Protein35gram

Ingredients

Quantity
  • Turkey breast, skinless and boneless (choose fresh or fully thawed)1 kg
  • Low sodium soy sauce (use gluten-free if needed)60 ml
  • Honey or maple syrup (for natural sweetness)2 tbsp
  • Fresh ginger, grated (choose firm, unwrinkled ginger)15 g
  • Garlic cloves, minced (use fresh garlic bulbs)3 pieces
  • Rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)2 tbsp
  • Sesame oil (toasted for flavor)1 tbsp
  • Chili flakes (optional, adjust to taste)0.5 tsp
  • Water (to thin marinade if necessary)50 ml
  • Green onions, chopped (for garnish)2 pieces
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)1 tbsp

This slow-cooked Asian-style turkey breast recipe is perfect for home cooks looking for a flavorful, tender, and juicy turkey that's easy to prepare. Using a slow cooker allows the turkey breast to become meltingly tender while absorbing the delicious Asian-inspired marinade. Total ingredient cost is approximately $15 USD, €14 EUR, £12 GBP, and ₹1200 INR. The dish contains about 280 kcal per serving. Suitable for a gluten-free diet when using gluten-free soy sauce. Difficulty level is easy, requiring about 15 minutes prep and 4 hours cook time.

Preparation instructions

Prepare the Marinade

1In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes if using. Mix well until honey dissolves. This marinade will flavor your turkey deeply during slow cooking.

Marinate the Turkey

2Place the turkey breast in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the turkey, ensuring it is well coated. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 1 hour, up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Set Up the Slow Cooker

3Remove the turkey from the marinade, reserving the marinade. Place the turkey breast in the slow cooker, and pour the reserved marinade over it. Add water if needed to ensure there is enough liquid to prevent drying out.

Cook the Turkey

4Cover and cook on low for 3.5 to 4 hours or until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part to check. This ensures the turkey is safe to eat.

Rest the Turkey

5Turn off the slow cooker and carefully remove the turkey breast. Let it rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.

Serve and Garnish

6Slice the turkey breast against the grain and garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve with steamed rice or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Tips

1Always use a clean meat thermometer and avoid touching bone when measuring temperature for accuracy.

2Make sure to defrost turkey completely if using frozen to ensure even cooking.

3Avoid cross-contamination by washing hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw turkey.

4If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the turkey when done and simmer the cooking liquid on high with a cornstarch slurry until thickened.

Equipment Needed

  • Slow cooker
  • Meat thermometer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Tongs or fork for handling turkey

Grocery Shopping List

  • [ ] 1 kg turkey breast, skinless and boneless (~$10) - Choose fresh or well-thawed from a reputable supplier
  • [ ] Low sodium soy sauce, 60 ml (~$1) - Look for gluten-free if needed
  • [ ] Honey or maple syrup, 2 tbsp (~$0.50) - Opt for pure honey for best flavor
  • [ ] Fresh ginger, ~15 g (~$0.30) - Pick firm, smooth skin ginger
  • [ ] Garlic cloves, 3 pieces (~$0.20) - Fresh bulbs give best flavor
  • [ ] Rice vinegar, 2 tbsp (~$0.70) - Can substitute apple cider vinegar
  • [ ] Sesame oil, 1 tbsp (~$0.80) - Toasted sesame oil preferred
  • [ ] Chili flakes, 0.5 tsp (~$0.10) - Optional for heat
  • [ ] Green onions, 2 pieces (~$0.50) - Fresh with bright green tops
  • [ ] Sesame seeds, 1 tbsp (~$0.20) - Toast lightly before use

Total approximate cost: $15.30

FAQ

Can I use frozen turkey breast directly in the slow cooker?

It is safe to use frozen turkey breast in a slow cooker, but it is recommended to thaw it first to ensure even cooking and proper temperature. Using frozen meat could increase cooking time and potentially lead to uneven cooking.

What is the safe internal temperature for turkey breast?

The safe internal temperature for cooked turkey breast is 74°C (165°F). Use a meat thermometer to verify this before serving to ensure it is safe to eat.

Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Marinating the turkey breast overnight will enhance the flavor even more.

How do I avoid cross-contamination when handling raw turkey?

Always wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling raw turkey. Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw poultry, and clean all surfaces thoroughly afterward to prevent cross-contamination.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.