Turkey Cantonese

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: Chinese

A flavorful and savory turkey stir-fry with pineapple, water chestnuts, and tomatoes, offering a sweet and tangy taste that pairs perfectly with rice, ideal for using leftover turkey.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 2 cups sliced onions
  • 4 cups cubed turkey
  • 1 (No. 2) can pineapple tidbits (including juice)
  • 2 tablespoons vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water chestnut juice
  • 4 tomatoes
  • 1 (8 oz) can water chestnuts
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups cooked rice

Instructions

  1. Saute sliced onions in butter until tender, then add cubed turkey and cook briefly.
  2. Add pineapple juice and vinegar, simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavors.
  3. Blend cornstarch and water chestnut juice until smooth.
  4. Pour the cornstarch mixture into the skillet and cook until the sauce thickens.
  5. Add pineapple tidbits, chopped tomatoes, water chestnuts, and salt; simmer briefly.
  6. Serve the turkey cantonese over cooked rice.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil to the sauce. You can substitute turkey with chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option. If fresh tomatoes are not available, canned tomatoes can work in a pinch. To enhance the dish, serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. This recipe also pairs beautifully with Smoked Sausage Oriental for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Turkey Cantonese over a generous bed of warm, cooked rice. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. This dish also pairs well with a side of steamed broccoli or a tangy cucumber salad. For an adventurous twist, consider serving it alongside Oriental Burritos to create a fusion meal experience.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally to heat evenly. For best results, consume within the storage time to maintain flavor and texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Turkey Cantonese contains roughly 529 calories, with 8g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value), protein (16% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1458mg per serving (63% of the Daily Value).

529 kcal 26% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8g 16% DV
Total Fat 30.1g 39% DV
Carbs 55.7g 20% DV
Fiber 1.3g 5% DV
Sugar 4.8g 10% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1457.9mg 63% DV
Potassium 239.4mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 88.5mg 29% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 48.6mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 16.7mg 19% DV
Calcium 25.8mg 2% DV
Iron 2.2mg 12% DV
Contains Milk

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 use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can add a bright, juicy flavor to the dish. Just make sure to cut it into small tidbits and add it along with the other ingredients during the last few minutes of cooking to maintain its texture.

What can I use instead of water chestnut juice?

If you don’t have water chestnut juice, you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth for a similar savory flavor. Alternatively, a splash of soy sauce can add a nice depth to the sauce if you prefer that flavor profile.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Turkey Cantonese ahead of time. Simply cook it as instructed and let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of water if needed to keep the sauce from thickening too much.

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).

Chinese recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →