Turkey jelly

Turkey aspic is a traditional dish that brings not only a delicious taste to the table but also warm childhood memories, when grandmother took care of the preparations for the holidays. This recipe is less intricate than the pork version and offers a fine texture as well as a savory taste, perfect for all occasions. Let's discover together how you can prepare this delicacy step by step.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 3 hours
Total time: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients:
- 2 turkey wings
- 1 turkey lower leg
- 1 large onion (or 2 medium)
- 1 large carrot (or 2 medium)
- 2 large garlic cloves (or 3 regular)
- 1 packet of gelatin (optional)
- 5 liters of water
- Salt to taste

Preparing the turkey aspic:
1. Boiling the meat: Start by placing the turkey meat (wings and leg) in a large pot, along with the onion and carrot, adding the 5 liters of water. Turn the heat to high and wait for it to reach a boiling point. Skim the soup well to remove impurities that form on the surface. This step is essential for obtaining a clear and tasty aspic.

2. Slow boiling: Once you have removed the foam, reduce the heat and let everything simmer on low for about 3 hours. The sign that the meat is ready is when it easily separates from the bone. Don't forget to add salt to taste at this point. It is important to leave a third of the water in the pot, as this will form the base for the natural gelatin of the dish.

3. Preparing the meat: After 3 hours, remove the meat from the pot and let it cool. Once cooled, cut the meat into smaller pieces, which you will place in serving dishes (bowls or trays). Don't forget to add the boiled carrot, sliced into rounds, for a pleasant appearance and additional flavor.

4. Preparing the liquid: When the water in which the meat boiled becomes warm, add the crushed garlic cloves. Remove the onion and carrot from the broth, as they are no longer needed. An important trick: put a drop of water from the pot on your fingers. If it is sticky, there is no need to add gelatin. If you prefer a firmer aspic, you can add the gelatin prepared according to the instructions on the package.

5. Clarifying the broth: Before pouring the liquid over the meat, it is recommended to clarify it (transfer the water from one pot to another 3 times) to make it clear. This step is crucial for a successful aspic, so don't skip it. After clarifying, strain the broth through a fine sieve to remove any particles.

6. Assembling the aspic: Now, pour the strained liquid over the cut meat in the prepared dishes. Make sure all pieces of meat are evenly covered with liquid. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for a few hours or even overnight until the aspic sets.

Serving suggestions: Turkey aspic is served cold, sliced, alongside mustard or horseradish. It can be a perfect appetizer for holiday meals or for a gathering with friends.

Useful tips:
- Choose fresh turkey meat for a better taste. Organic turkey meat can add a special flavor to the aspic.
- If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables to the broth, such as celery or bell pepper, for added flavor.
- Gelatin can be omitted if you prefer a less firm aspic, but make sure you have enough liquid from the meat.

Calories and nutritional benefits: Turkey aspic is a healthy choice, rich in protein and low in fat, thanks to the turkey meat. A serving contains about 150 calories, depending on the added ingredients. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can turkey aspic be frozen? Yes, the aspic can be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to maintain the texture.
- Can I use chicken instead of turkey? Of course! Chicken aspic will have a different taste but will be just as delicious.

Turkey aspic is not just a dish but a story, a connection between generations that can bring smiles to the faces of loved ones. Therefore, I encourage each of you to try this recipe, enjoy every step, and share the flavor of this tradition with your loved ones!