Fried turkey is one of those dishes that you can’t resist, even if you’re trying to cut back on fried foods. There’s just something about the crispy exterior and juicy, tender meat that makes it incredibly satisfying. While many people are concerned about the health effects of frying with oil, the flavour of fried turkey can sometimes make it worth the indulgence, especially when enjoyed in moderation. My husband is a big fan of fried turkey, and when I used to sell small chops, I noticed that pairing fried turkey with crispy small chops and a spicy pepper dipping sauce was always a hit with customers.
What I love most about fried turkey is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a snack, serve it alongside jollof rice, or even add it to traditional Nigerian soups like egusi, vegetable soup or even efo riro. It’s simple to prepare, doesn’t require too many ingredients, and is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or adding it to your small chops platter for a party, fried turkey is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your cooking repertoire.
Nutritional Value of Fried Turkey
While frying isn’t the healthiest cooking method, turkey itself is a nutritious protein. Turkey is a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It’s especially high in B vitamins (such as B6 and niacin), which are essential for energy production and brain health. Turkey is also a good source of zinc, which supports immune function, and selenium, which acts as an antioxidant to help protect your cells from damage.
However, when frying turkey, the oil used adds calories and fat to the dish. To make it a bit healthier, you can opt for heart-healthy oils like canola oil or avocado oil, which have a higher smoke point and contain beneficial fats.
Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional value of a typical serving of fried turkey:
- Calories: 250-350 per serving (depending on the size of the piece and amount of oil absorbed)
- Protein: 20-25g per serving
- Fat: 15-20g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Vitamins: High in B6, B12, and niacin
- Minerals: Rich in zinc, phosphorus, and selenium
Ingredients
To make this delicious fried turkey recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Turkey: Fresh or frozen, cut into portions (drumsticks, wings, or thighs work well)
- Onion: 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
- Scotch bonnet pepper: 1-2, depending on your spice tolerance and to reduce the smell from the turkey
- Seasoning cubes or powder: 2-3 cubes or 2 teaspoons of your preferred seasoning
- Salt: To taste
- Fresh rosemary: A few sprigs for added flavour
- Fresh thyme: 2-3 sprigs for extra fragrance
- Curry powder: 1 teaspoon to enhance the aroma
- Ginger and garlic: Fresh ginger and garlic cloves, finely chopped or blended
- Vegetable oil for frying: Enough to submerge the turkey pieces
Method
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Turkey
Start by washing the turkey pieces thoroughly under running water. It’s essential to clean the turkey well, especially when using frozen turkey that has been thawed. Once clean, place the turkey in a pot.
Add your chopped onion, scotch bonnet pepper, seasoning cubes, salt, fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, curry powder, ginger, and garlic to the turkey in the pot. These ingredients will not only flavour the turkey but also give the stock a rich, aromatic taste. You can also add a small amount of water to the pot, just enough to cover the turkey halfway. This will ensure the turkey cooks in its own juices, enhancing the flavour.
Bring the pot to a boil and cook the turkey on medium heat until it is tender. Depending on the size of the turkey pieces, this can take around 20-30 minutes. Keep an eye on the pot to ensure the turkey is evenly cooked. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat begins to pull away from the bone.
Step 2: Save the Stock for Future Use
Once the turkey is tender, remove it from the pot and drain the turkey stock. This stock is liquid gold—it’s full of flavour and can be used to prepare other dishes like jollof rice, stews, or soups. Allow the stock to cool, then store it in the fridge or freezer for future use.
Step 3: Fry the Turkey
Now it’s time to fry the turkey. In a deep frying pan or pot, heat a generous amount of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to fry the turkey but not so hot that it burns the skin before cooking the inside.
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the turkey pieces into the oil. Be cautious as the oil may splatter when you add the turkey. Fry the turkey in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy turkey.
Fry the turkey until it’s golden brown and crispy on the outside. This should take about 5-8 minutes per batch, depending on the size of the pieces. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the fried turkey from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Your fried turkey is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it hot alongside your favourite side dishes like jollof rice, fried plantains, or a fresh salad. You can also pair it with a pepper dipping sauce for an extra kick of flavour. Fried turkey can be eaten on its own as a snack, used in soups, or served as part of a larger meal.
Tips for Perfect Fried Turkey
- Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is at the right temperature (about 350°F or 175°C) before frying the turkey. If the oil is too cold, the turkey will absorb more oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is fully cooked.
- Marinating the Turkey: For extra flavour, you can marinate the turkey with the seasoning, ginger, garlic, and herbs for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This will allow the flavours to penetrate deeper into the meat.
- Oil Choice: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil. These oils won’t overpower the flavour of the turkey and can withstand the high frying temperature.
- Leftover Turkey: If you have leftover fried turkey, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or air fryer to restore its crispiness.
Health Considerations of Fried Turkey
As mentioned earlier, frying food is often considered less healthy than other cooking methods like baking or grilling. The added oil increases the calorie and fat content of the dish. However, there are ways to make fried turkey a little healthier:
- Use less oil: Instead of deep frying, you can shallow fry the turkey to reduce the amount of oil used.
- Choose heart-healthy oils: Oils like avocado or olive oil are rich in monounsaturated fats, which are better for heart health than saturated fats.
- Portion control: Enjoy fried turkey in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Pair it with healthier sides like steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the meal.
Despite the health concerns, fried turkey can be a delicious treat when enjoyed occasionally. With its crispy exterior and juicy, flavourful meat, it’s a dish that’s hard to resist! Discover the health benefits of turkey here.
Serving Ideas and Pairing Suggestions for Fried Turkey
Fried turkey is incredibly versatile, and its crispy, flavourful nature makes it suitable for various occasions and meals. Whether you’re serving it as part of a large family feast, a casual get-together with friends, or even a small chops platter, here are some delicious serving ideas and pairing suggestions to elevate your meal:
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Pairing with Jollof Rice
Fried turkey and jollof rice are a match made in heaven. The spicy, smoky flavours of the jollof rice perfectly complement the crispy, savory turkey. This pairing is a classic at Nigerian parties and events, often served with a side of fried plantains or moi moi (steamed bean pudding).
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Serve with Fried Plantains (Dodo)
For a simple yet satisfying meal, pair your fried turkey with fried plantains, also known as dodo. The sweetness of the plantains balances the savory flavour of the turkey, creating a delightful contrast. This combination works well as a lunch or dinner option and can be complemented with a dipping sauce for extra spice.
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Spicy Pepper Sauce
A spicy pepper dipping sauce adds an extra layer of heat to your fried turkey. This sauce can be made by blending Scotch bonnet peppers, tomatoes, onions, and garlic, then frying the mixture with some oil and seasoning. The result is a fiery and flavourful sauce that pairs perfectly with the crispy turkey. Serve the sauce on the side for guests to dip their turkey pieces into or drizzle it over the turkey for added heat.
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Accompaniment with Nigerian Soups
Fried turkey can be used as an alternative to traditional meats in various Nigerian soups, such as egusi, efo riro, or vegetable soup. The crispy texture of the turkey provides a nice contrast to the rich, hearty nature of the soups. Simply add the fried turkey pieces to the soup during the final stages of cooking to soak up some of the flavours while still retaining some crispiness.
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As Part of a Small Chops Platter
Fried turkey is a popular addition to small chops platters, especially at parties and special events. A small chops platter typically includes finger foods like puff puff, samosas, spring rolls, and fried chicken. The fried turkey can be served alongside these items, creating a diverse and exciting platter for guests to enjoy. Adding a spicy dipping sauce will enhance the overall experience and make the turkey the star of the platter.
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Pairing with Grilled Vegetables
For a healthier option, serve fried turkey with a side of grilled vegetables. You can grill bell peppers, cabbage, cucumber, and carrots with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. The charred, smoky flavour of the grilled vegetables beautifully complements the rich taste of the fried turkey, offering a balanced and nutritious meal.
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Serving with Steamed Rice and Stews
Another great option is to pair your fried turkey with steamed white rice and a variety of Nigerian stews. Stews like tomato stew, ayamase (green pepper sauce) work well with fried turkey, as the turkey can soak up the rich, flavourful sauces. This combination is hearty and satisfying, making it a popular choice for family dinners or special occasions.
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As a Snack with a Cold Drink
Fried turkey can also be enjoyed as a snack, especially during social gatherings or casual hangouts. Serve the turkey pieces on their own with a cold drink like soda or a chilled glass of Zobo (hibiscus drink). It’s a simple yet flavourful snack that will keep your guests satisfied. You can also serve the turkey with fries or yam chips for a more filling snack option.
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Fried Turkey Salad
For a lighter meal, you can create a fried turkey salad by tossing mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions with a light vinaigrette. Add some sliced fried turkey on top for a crunchy and satisfying addition to the salad. This is a great way to enjoy fried turkey while incorporating more vegetables into your diet.
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Fried Turkey Sandwich or Wrap
Another creative way to use leftover fried turkey is to make a sandwich or wrap. Slice the turkey into thin pieces and place it between two slices of bread or in a tortilla wrap with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and your favourite condiments. You can also add avocado or cheese for extra richness. This makes for a quick and easy lunch or snack.
Creative Twists on Fried Turkey
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take the traditional fried turkey recipe and give it a unique twist by experimenting with different seasonings and marinades.
- Spicy Fried Turkey: Add more heat to your fried turkey by marinating it in a spicy blend of Scotch bonnet peppers, cayenne pepper, and paprika before cooking. This version will definitely pack a punch and is perfect for those who love spicy foods.
- Garlic and Herb Fried Turkey: For a more aromatic flavour, you can marinate the turkey in garlic, fresh thyme, rosemary, and a bit of lemon juice. The result is a fragrant, flavourful turkey with a crispy, golden-brown crust.
- Honey Glazed Fried Turkey: After frying the turkey, you can glaze it with a mixture of honey and soy sauce for a sweet and savory combination. This twist adds a caramelized coating to the turkey, making it perfect for special occasions or holiday meals.
Conclusion
Fried turkey is an excellent dish that offers endless possibilities for serving and pairing. Whether you’re enjoying it with jollof rice, adding it to a salad, or simply snacking on it with a spicy dipping sauce, fried turkey is always a crowd-pleaser. While frying may not be the healthiest method, you can enjoy this dish in moderation and experiment with healthier alternatives like using air fryers or shallow frying.
Turkey’s high protein content and rich nutrients, combined with its crispy exterior and juicy interior, make it a satisfying addition to any meal. Whether you’re cooking it for a family dinner or serving it as part of a small chops platter for a party, fried turkey will surely become a favourite in your kitchen.
