Oven-baked turkey thighs with mustard

Turkey Thighs with Mustard Baked: A Delicious Recipe for Special Moments

When it comes to cooking, few dishes can rival the aroma and flavor of baked turkey thighs with mustard. This simple yet refined recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. No matter when you choose to prepare it, you will impress everyone with a delicious and healthy meal.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:

- 2 turkey thighs
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 4 tablespoons of mustard (preferably Dijon mustard for a more intense flavor)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- 1 cup of sparkling water (for an extra flavor)
- 200g cherry tomatoes
- ½ red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 onion (sliced)
- 1 cube of butter (for a richer taste)

A Bit of History

Turkey thighs have been used for centuries in various culinary cultures, thanks to their juicy meat and the versatile ways they can be prepared. Mustard, with its distinct and slightly spicy flavor, is an ingredient that has gained popularity in many kitchens around the world, used in both savory dishes and sauces.

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preparing the turkey thighs
Start by washing the turkey thighs in cold water, then use a paper towel to dry them well. This step is essential for achieving a crispy crust during baking. If desired, you can remove the skin from the thighs, but this will add extra flavor and juiciness. Score the thighs in several places to allow for better marination and to help the flavors penetrate.

2. Preparing the sauce
In a bowl, crush the 4 cloves of garlic with a little salt, using a mortar or simply the back of a spoon. Then add the olive oil and mustard. Mix all the ingredients well until you obtain a smooth paste. This marinade will give the thighs an intense and delicious flavor.

3. Coating the thighs
Use the mustard and garlic paste to coat the turkey thighs on all sides. Make sure they are evenly covered to benefit from all the flavors.

4. Preparing the vegetables
In a greased baking dish with a cube of butter, place the turkey thighs. Add the chopped vegetables: cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and onion. These vegetables will not only add color and texture to the dish but will also contribute to the overall flavor of the meal.

5. Adding the sparkling water
Pour a cup of sparkling water into the dish, which will help maintain moisture during baking. This step is important to avoid drying out the meat and to achieve a juicy texture.

6. Baking in the oven
Cover the dish with a lid or, if unavailable, with aluminum foil. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and place the dish in the oven. Let it bake for 30 minutes.

7. Finishing the dish
After 30 minutes, remove the lid or aluminum foil and let the thighs brown for another 15-20 minutes. This step will create a golden and appetizing crust. Check if the thighs are cooked (the meat should be white, with no traces of pink), and the juices running from the meat should be clear.

Serving and Suggestions

Baked turkey thighs with mustard can be served alongside a fresh salad. An excellent combination is the endive salad with roasted cherry tomatoes, which adds a pleasant contrast of flavors and textures. You can also add a side of baked potatoes or mashed potatoes to complement this main dish.

Practical Tips

- Choosing mustard: Use a quality mustard, as it will greatly influence the final flavor of the dish. Dijon mustard is an excellent choice due to its intensity.
- Olive oil: Opt for extra virgin olive oil for better taste.
- Variations: You can experiment with various vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, depending on your preferences. You can also add spices like paprika or herbs (rosemary, thyme) for extra flavor.
- Storage: If you have leftover thighs, they can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. They are delicious cold, in salads or sandwiches.

Nutritional Benefits

Turkey thighs are an excellent source of lean protein, rich in essential nutrients such as iron and B vitamins. Additionally, the added vegetables contribute fiber and vitamins, making this recipe a healthy choice for your meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, you can replace the turkey thighs with chicken thighs, and the cooking times will be similar.

2. What can I do if I don’t have mustard?
If you don’t have mustard, you can use mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a base for the marinade, adding spices and garlic for flavor.

3. How can I make the recipe spicier?
For a spicy note, add a pinch of hot paprika or chili flakes to the marinade.

Cooking is an art, and this recipe for turkey thighs with mustard baked is an excellent way to express your creativity in the kitchen. Don’t forget to enjoy every step of the process and the final result. Enjoy your meal!