Stewed Turkey Necks
A hearty and flavorful stew featuring tender turkey necks, savory herbs, and aromatic vegetables, perfect for comforting family dinners and those who enjoy rich, rustic flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, salt, and black pepper in a paper or plastic bag.
- Add a few turkey necks at a time to the bag.
- Shake to coat the necks evenly.
- Heat shortening or oil in a stock pot over medium heat.
- Brown the coated turkey necks on all sides.
- Add chopped onion, chopped celery, minced garlic, and bay leaf to the pot.
- Saute for 3 minutes.
- Add water, chicken bouillon cubes, celery seed, and red pepper flakes to the pot.
- Cover and cook on medium-low heat for 2 hours or until the meat is very tender.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. If you don't have turkey necks, chicken necks or wings can be used as a substitute. A splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish. Ensure to brown the turkey necks well for a richer taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your stewed turkey necks over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. They pair nicely with sides like Spicy Red Cabbage or a simple green salad. For a complete feast, consider offering Homemade Chicken Pot Pies as an additional dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the stewed turkey necks on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out. They can also be reheated in the microwave in short intervals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stewed Turkey Necks contains roughly 1139 calories, with 31g protein, 213g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (535% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (164% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1704mg per serving (74% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. After browning the turkey necks, transfer them to the slow cooker along with the vegetables, water, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the necks are tender.
What can I do if the meat is tough after cooking?
If the turkey necks are tough, it may be that they need more cooking time. Continue to simmer them on low heat, checking periodically, until they reach the desired tenderness. Adding a bit of liquid can help keep them moist during this process.
Can I freeze the stewed turkey necks?
Absolutely! Allow the stewed turkey necks to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).