Turkey Keema

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Indian

Turkey Keema is a flavorful, hearty dish featuring ground turkey simmered in a spiced tomato and onion gravy. Its aromatic blend of ginger, garlic, cumin, and coriander makes it a comforting favorite, perfect for those who enjoy spicy, protein-rich meals with a touch of warmth and depth.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup ground turkey
  • 3/4 cup grated onion
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground garlic
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 chopped tomato
  • 1 chopped green pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon salad oil
  • salt to taste
  • 2 to 3 cups water

Instructions

  1. Heat salad oil in a pan and fry the grated onion until golden brown.
  2. Add ground ginger and garlic, and fry for a few more minutes.
  3. Add ground turkey, chopped tomatoes, cumin seeds, ground coriander, and red chili powder; fry for a few more minutes.
  4. Add 2 to 3 cups water and cook until the turkey is tender and the gravy is thick.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or a tablespoon of tomato paste. If you don't have ground turkey, ground chicken or even lean beef can be used as substitutes. Adjust the chili powder based on your spice tolerance, or add additional vegetables like peas or carrots for more nutrition. This dish can also be served as a filling for wraps or alongside rice.

Serving Suggestions

Serve turkey keema with warm naan or steamed basmati rice for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of raita or cucumber salad to balance the spices. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Bean And Eggplant Curry for a delightful vegetarian contrast. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, let the turkey keema cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of water to prevent it from drying out, and heat on low until warmed through. Stir occasionally for even heating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Turkey Keema contains roughly 93 calories, with 4g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1797mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).

93 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.5g 7% DV
Total Fat 1.1g 1% DV
Carbs 18.9g 7% DV
Fiber 1.8g 7% DV
Sugar 2.5g 5% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1796.6mg 78% DV
Potassium 318.1mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 0.4mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 47.2mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 31.8mg 35% DV
Calcium 97.4mg 7% DV
Iron 1.3mg 7% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 make this recipe in advance?

Yes, turkey keema can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

What can I serve with turkey keema?

Turkey keema pairs well with rice, naan, or even stuffed in pita bread. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or yogurt-based dishes like raita to cool down the spices.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase the heat, you can add more red chili powder or even some chopped green chilies during cooking. Alternatively, consider serving it with a side of spicy chutney for those who prefer extra heat.

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).

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