What Goes Well With Turkey Wings?
In short, turkey wings pair wonderfully with dishes that offer a balance of hearty and comforting flavors, such as creamy mashed potatoes, tangy cranberry sauce, and vibrant green bean casserole. These accompaniments complement the rich, savory taste of the turkey and create a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
Introduction: The Underrated Appeal of Turkey Wings
Turkey wings, often overshadowed by the breast or thighs, offer a concentrated burst of flavor and a satisfyingly meaty experience. They are a budget-friendly alternative, particularly when craving that classic Thanksgiving or holiday taste year-round. However, knowing what to serve alongside them can elevate your turkey wing experience from simple to spectacular. This article explores the best side dishes and accompaniments to perfectly complement the rich flavor profile of turkey wings.
The Rich Flavor Profile of Turkey Wings
Turkey wings, due to their higher fat content and presence of bones, possess a richer, more intense flavor than other parts of the bird. This translates to a savory, slightly gamey taste that benefits from pairings that offer both contrast and complementary flavors. Think about dishes that balance the richness with acidity, sweetness, or a fresh, herbal note.
Classic Comfort Sides
These are the tried-and-true sides that have earned their place on holiday tables for a reason. They work beautifully with the hearty nature of turkey wings.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, smooth mashed potatoes are an excellent foil for the savory turkey. Consider adding roasted garlic or herbs for an extra layer of flavor.
- Stuffing or Dressing: A classic stuffing, whether cornbread-based or bread-based, provides textural contrast and absorbs the delicious gravy.
- Gravy: Essential! The rich, savory gravy made from the turkey drippings binds all the elements together.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the turkey, offering a refreshing palate cleanser.
- Green Bean Casserole: A retro classic that offers a salty and creamy complement.
Bright and Tangy Options
Adding a touch of acidity is crucial for balancing the richness of turkey wings.
- Coleslaw: A crisp and tangy coleslaw, whether creamy or vinegar-based, offers a refreshing contrast.
- Pickled Vegetables: Pickled beets, carrots, or onions provide a burst of acidity and color.
- Apple Sauce: The sweetness and tartness of apple sauce are a classic pairing with poultry.
Vegetables that Complement Turkey Wings
Don’t neglect the vegetable component! These options add color, texture, and essential nutrients to your meal.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts roast beautifully and offer a touch of sweetness to balance the savory turkey.
- Green Beans (Sautéed or Steamed): A simple green bean dish, perhaps with a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of almonds, provides a fresh counterpoint.
- Corn on the Cob or Creamed Corn: The sweetness of corn complements the savory flavors of the turkey.
Considerations for Preparation Style
The way you prepare your turkey wings will influence your side dish choices. Smoked turkey wings will pair differently than braised ones.
- Smoked Turkey Wings: These benefit from sides that are lighter and brighter, such as coleslaw or a fresh salad, to cut through the smokiness.
- Braised Turkey Wings: These are often richer and more tender, so consider sides that offer textural contrast, like roasted vegetables or cornbread.
- Fried Turkey Wings: Crunchy fried turkey wings call for sides that offer moisture and acidity, such as mashed potatoes with gravy or pickled vegetables.
Table: Pairing Suggestions Based on Preparation
| Turkey Wing Preparation | Recommended Sides |
|---|---|
| Smoked | Coleslaw, potato salad, grilled vegetables, cornbread |
| Braised | Mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, stuffing |
| Fried | Mac and cheese, collard greens, cornbread |
| Roasted | Green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, sweet potato casserole |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the best gravy to serve with turkey wings?
The best gravy is undoubtedly one made from the turkey drippings itself. This ensures a rich, savory flavor that perfectly complements the wings. However, a store-bought gravy can also work, particularly if you enhance it with fresh herbs and a splash of wine or broth.
Can I serve turkey wings with pasta?
Absolutely! A creamy pasta dish, such as *mac and cheese, can be a comforting and satisfying accompaniment to turkey wings. The richness of the cheese sauce complements the savory flavor of the turkey. Consider adding some vegetables to the pasta, such as broccoli or peas, for a more balanced meal.
Are sweet potatoes a good side dish for turkey wings?
Yes! Sweet potatoes, whether mashed, roasted, or made into a casserole, are a fantastic pairing with turkey wings. Their natural sweetness provides a lovely contrast to the savory flavor of the turkey. Consider adding some warming spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, to enhance the flavor.
What’s a good low-carb side dish option?
For a low-carb option, consider cauliflower mash instead of mashed potatoes. It offers a similar creamy texture but with significantly fewer carbohydrates. Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini, are also excellent low-carb choices.
What’s a good vegetarian side dish to serve?
There are many excellent vegetarian side dishes that pair well with turkey wings. A stuffing made without meat broth**, a **creamed spinach dish, or a hearty lentil stew** are all delicious options.
Can I use turkey wings to make soup?
Yes! Turkey wings are excellent for making soup**. Simmer them in water or broth with vegetables and herbs to create a flavorful and nutritious soup. Remove the meat from the bones before serving.
How can I make my gravy gluten-free?
To make gluten-free gravy, use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch** to thicken it. You can also use a slurry of cornstarch and water instead of a roux. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as broth, are also gluten-free.
What drinks pair well with turkey wings?
Red wine, particularly Pinot Noir or Beaujolais**, pairs beautifully with turkey wings. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the turkey. A crisp **white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling, can also be a good choice. For non-alcoholic options, try cranberry juice or sparkling apple cider**.
How do I make sure my turkey wings are tender?
The key to tender turkey wings is to cook them low and slow**. Braising or slow-cooking are excellent methods. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
Can I use a slow cooker to cook turkey wings?
Yes, a slow cooker is a great way to cook turkey wings**. Place the wings in the slow cooker with broth, vegetables, and herbs. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
What spices go well with turkey wings?
Common spices include sage, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper**. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile.
How long can I store leftover cooked turkey wings?
Cooked turkey wings can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days**. Ensure that they are properly sealed in an airtight container. They can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months.