Have you ever heard of turkey neck? It’s a cut of meat that’s often overlooked and underappreciated, but it can be incredibly flavorful and tender when cooked properly. In this recipe, we’ll use a slow cooker to create a succulent and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion.
Imagine coming home after a long day to the aroma of a comforting slow-cooked meal ready to be served. Join us on this culinary journey as we discover the hidden gem of turkey neck and how to make it in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
- 2-3 lbs turkey neck (This amount can feed 4-6 people)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 cup of dry red wine (such as cabernet sauvignon, merlot, or Shiraz)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Turkey Neck in Slow Cooker
- Start by seasoning the turkey necks with salt and pepper. Be generous with the seasoning, as this will add flavor to the dish.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the turkey necks to the skillet and brown them on both sides for 2-3 minutes per side. This step is important as it will add depth of flavor to the dish and give the turkey necks a nice golden brown color.
- Once the turkey necks are browned, remove them from the skillet and place them in the slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. This will help to release the flavors of the onion and garlic and add more depth of flavor to the dish.
- Add the chicken broth, red wine, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet and bring to a simmer. This mixture will add even more flavor to the dish and help keep the turkey necks moist as they cook.
- Pour the mixture over the turkey necks in the slow cooker. Spoon some of the liquid over the turkey necks to ensure they are fully submerged.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the turkey necks are tender and cooked. The cooking time will depend on the size of the turkey necks, but they should be cooked through and tender when ready.
- Once the turkey necks are done cooking, remove them from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more tender.
- Discard the bay leaves before serving.
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper if necessary.
Following these steps carefully is important to ensure the dish turns out perfectly. Browning the turkey necks before adding them to the slow cooker, sautéing the onions and garlic, and using the right amount of seasoning play a crucial role in the outcome of the dish.
Jump to VideoSubstitution Options
- You can substitute red wine with beef broth or water if you don’t have red wine.
- You can also use any herbs, such as sage or oregano.
Materials Needed
Having the right tools and equipment ensures this recipe turns out perfectly. This recipe’s slow cooker is essential, allowing the turkey neck to cook slowly.
- Slow Cooker
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups (1 cup and 1/4 cup) and spoons (1 tsp, 1/2 tsp)
- Wooden spoon
- Tongs
A large skillet is needed for browning the turkey necks before adding them to the slow cooker. Measuring cups and spoons are needed to measure ingredients precisely, and a wooden spoon and tongs will be useful for stirring and handling the turkey necks.
Why it’s a Great Recipe for the Slow Cooker
The slow cooker is the perfect cooking method for turkey neck, as it allows the meat to cook low and slow, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
A slow cooker is a great option for those short on time, as it allows you to prepare the dish in the morning and have it ready by dinner. A slow cooker is also a great option for those who want to be hands-off in the cooking process, as it requires minimal attention throughout the cooking time.
The slow cooker is also great for bringing out the flavors of the ingredients. As the turkey neck cooks, the flavors of the herbs and spices infused in the broth will penetrate the meat, making it even more flavorful. The slow cooker also allows the flavors of the ingredients to meld together, creating a dish packed with flavor.
The slow cooker is also energy efficient; it doesn’t heat your kitchen as much as an oven or stovetop, making it a perfect option for hot summer days. It also allows you to cook a large batch of the dish; that way, you can have leftovers for the next day or even freeze them for later.
Personal Experience with the Dish
When I first served this turkey neck recipe on Thanksgiving, my family, especially the kids, hesitated about trying it.
They were used to having the traditional turkey roast, but I wanted to switch things up and introduce them to something new. Surprisingly, the turkey neck was a hit among everyone, especially the kids. They loved the tender and juicy meat and the rich flavor it had.
It’s a great alternative to the traditional turkey roast on Thanksgiving, it’s leaner, and the meat is more flavorful. The slow cooking process makes the turkey neck tender and infused with the flavors of herbs and spices. It’s also a great option for those who love leftovers, as the meat stays moist and delicious even after reheating.
The best part of this recipe is that it’s easy to make, you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen, and you can relax and enjoy the company of your loved ones while the slow cooker does all the work for you. It’s also a great option for those with a smaller crowd to feed, as turkey necks are smaller than a full turkey roast.
Tips for Selecting the Best Turkey Neck
- Look for turkey necks that are plump and have a consistent color.
- Avoid turkey necks that have any discoloration or signs of spoilage.
- You can also ask your butcher for recommendations on the best turkey necks for this recipe.
- It’s best to buy turkey necks that are labeled as “fresh” or “frozen” instead of “pre-cooked” or “smoked”
Regarding the turkey neck, buying more than you think you’ll need is always best, as the meat shrinks during cooking.
Tips for Ensuring the Dish Turns Out Perfectly
- Brown the turkey necks before adding them to the slow cooker. This step is important as it will add depth of flavor to the dish and give the turkey necks a nice golden brown color.
- Stir the contents of the slow cooker occasionally to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed. This will also help to prevent the turkey necks from sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Regularly check the slow cooker’s liquid level and ensure the turkey necks are fully submerged. Add more chicken broth or water to the slow cooker if the liquid is low.
- Be patient and let the turkey necks cook for the full cooking time. The turkey necks need to cook for a certain amount of time to become tender and infused with flavor.
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper if necessary.
- Be mindful of the size of the turkey necks; larger ones will take more time to cook.
- If you’re cooking a big batch of turkey necks, arrange them in a single layer in the slow cooker so that they cook evenly.
- If you’re using frozen turkey necks, thaw them completely before cooking.
- Add chopped carrots, celery, and potatoes to the slow cooker and the turkey necks if you want more vegetables.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the turkey necks from the slow cooker and set them aside, then use a slotted spoon to remove any vegetables, and thicken the sauce by mixing cornstarch or flour with a bit of cold water, then adding it to the slow cooker and cooking for another 10-15 minutes.
Turkey Neck Recipe in Slow Cooker: Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not browning the turkey necks before adding them to the slow cooker. This step is important as it will add depth of flavor to the dish and give the turkey necks a nice golden brown color.
- Not seasoning the turkey necks enough. Be generous with the seasoning, as this will add flavor to the dish.
- Not stirring the contents of the slow cooker occasionally. This will ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed and prevent the turkey necks from sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Cooking the turkey necks on high heat. The slow cooker should be set to low heat, allowing the turkey necks to cook slowly, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
- Not letting the turkey necks cook for the full cooking time. The turkey necks need to cook for a certain amount of time to become tender and infused with flavor.
Serving Suggestions
There are a few delicious options to consider when serving up your turkey neck recipe made in a slow cooker. One great way to enjoy the tender and flavorful meat is by pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Try shredding the meat and serving it over a bed of polenta or grits for a unique twist. To add more flavor, you can also serve it with gravy or cranberry sauce, adding a nice sweet touch.
Wine or Beer Pairing Suggestions
If you are serving a glass of red wine, a pinot noir or a lighter-bodied red wine like a Gamay will complement the rich, savory flavors of the turkey neck. A full-bodied red wine like a Zinfandel or a Syrah could also work well.
A Chardonnay or a Viognier will be a good match if you prefer white wine. A Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling could also be a good option.
When selecting a beer to pair with a turkey neck, some good options include brown ale, porter, or stout. Additionally, a Belgian Dubbel or Quadrupel would also be a great choice.
As always, it’s important to remember that personal preference is key, so feel free to experiment with different types of wine or beer to find the perfect pairing for your slow-cooked turkey neck.
Is turkey neck high in cholesterol?
Turkey’s neck is relatively high in cholesterol compared to other cuts of turkey. However, it is still a leaner option than red meats such as beef or pork. It’s always best to consult a health professional and monitor your dietary needs.
Are turkey necks healthy?
Turkey’s necks are a good source of protein and can be part of a healthy diet. However, they are relatively high in cholesterol, so it’s best to consume them in moderation.
How do you know when the turkey neck is cooked?
The internal temperature of the turkey neck should reach at least 165°F (74°C) before it is fully cooked. It’s best to use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
Do I wash turkey necks before cooking?
It is not necessary to wash turkey necks before cooking. Washing poultry can increase the risk of cross-contamination.
How long does it take turkey necks to cook?
The cooking time for turkey necks will depend on the size of the necks and the cooking method. In a slow cooker on low heat, turkey necks typically take 6-8 hours to cook. It is always best to check the internal temperature of the meat with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for a safe
Can I freeze cooked turkey necks?
Yes, cooked turkey necks can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely before storing them in airtight containers or freezer bags.
Can I substitute turkey necks with other cuts of turkey?
While turkey necks have a unique texture and flavor, you can substitute them with other cuts of turkey, such as turkey drumettes or turkey legs. These cuts will have a slightly different texture and flavor but will still work well in the recipe.
Turkey Neck Recipe in Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 2-3 lbs turkey neck (This amount can feed 4-6 people)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 cup of dry red wine (such as cabernet sauvignon, merlot, or shiraz)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by seasoning the turkey necks with salt and pepper. Be generous with the seasoning, as this will add flavor to the dish.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the turkey necks to the skillet and brown them on both sides for about 2-3 minutes per side. This step is important as it will add depth of flavor to the dish and give the turkey necks a nice golden brown color.
- Once the turkey necks are browned, remove them from the skillet and place them in the slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. This will help to release the flavors of the onion and garlic and add more depth of flavor to the dish.
- Add the chicken broth, red wine, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet and bring to a simmer. This mixture will add even more flavor to the dish and help keep the turkey necks moist as they cook.
- Pour the mixture over the turkey necks in the slow cooker. Make sure to spoon some of the liquid over the turkey necks to ensure that they are fully submerged.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the turkey necks are tender and cooked through. The cooking time will depend on the size of the turkey necks, but they should be cooked through and tender when they are ready.
- Once the turkey necks are done cooking, remove them from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and make it even more tender.Discard the bay leaves before serving.
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper if necessary.
Video
Conclusion
In summary, this turkey neck recipe in a slow cooker is a delicious and easy way to enjoy this often-overlooked cut of meat. The slow cooker method makes a tender and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.
Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or rice and a glass of red wine for a satisfying and satisfying meal. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe at home; it will become a family favorite.
