Stuffed turkey thighs

Oven-Stuffed Turkey Thighs

A refined and flavorful recipe, stuffed turkey thighs are an excellent choice for a festive meal or a special family dinner. Cooking these thighs is a true art, but don't worry! I will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect result that will impress anyone. Plus, you will discover a combination of flavors that turns every bite into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

About the recipe

Oven-stuffed turkey thighs are a recipe that combines tradition and innovation. They are often served on special occasions, but can also become a daily dish due to their simplicity. The rich filling, with dried plums and mushrooms, offers a sweetness and depth of flavor that perfectly complements the juicy turkey meat.

Ingredients

- 3 boneless turkey thighs
- 500 ml turkey broth (or chicken broth if unavailable)
- 200 grams dried plums
- 100 grams breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 50 ml sweet wine (for added flavor)
- Dried thyme (to taste)
- 100 g dried porcini mushrooms
- 1 tablespoon Vegeta (or other preferred seasoning)

Ingredient details

- Turkey thighs: Choose fresh, skinless turkey thighs for tender and juicy meat.
- Dried plums: These add a sweet note and are rich in antioxidants, and their combination with turkey meat works wonders.
- Breadcrumbs: Essential for binding the filling, but you can also use crushed stale bread for a rustic version.
- Sweet wine: Adds depth of flavor, but you can omit it if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
- Dried porcini mushrooms: If you have access to fresh mushrooms, they can be used instead of porcini, but make sure to sauté them before adding to the filling.

Preparation method

1. Preparing the filling: Start by rehydrating the dried porcini mushrooms in warm water for 20 minutes. Then, drain and chop them finely. In a bowl, mix sliced dried plums, breadcrumbs, chopped porcini, and beaten egg. Add the sweet wine and a pinch of dried thyme. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition.

2. Stuffing the thighs: Take the turkey thighs and, using a spoon, fill each thigh with the mixture above. Place the stuffed thighs in a baking dish.

3. Seasoning: Generously sprinkle dried thyme over the thighs and add the turkey broth. If desired, you can also add a bit of Vegeta for a more intense flavor.

4. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture, then place it in the oven. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, then remove the foil and allow to brown for about 15 minutes.

5. Serving: Once the thighs are ready, let them rest for 20 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute in the meat, making it even juicier. Place the thighs on a platter and slice them. Don't forget to serve the sauce from the baking dish; it is full of flavors and will perfectly complement the dish.

Serving suggestions

Stuffed turkey thighs pair wonderfully with various sides, such as mashed potatoes, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad. Additionally, a dry white wine will perfectly match this dish, highlighting the delicate flavors of the turkey and the sweetness of the plums.

Possible variations

To add a unique twist to the recipe, try replacing the plums with dried apples or apricots. Also, if you want a spicier version, add a few slices of chili pepper to the filling. Experiment with various herbs, such as rosemary or oregano, to achieve a unique flavor.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, this recipe can be adapted to chicken or duck, but the cooking time will vary.

2. How can I store leftovers?
Stuffed turkey thighs can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven to bring them to the desired temperature.

3. Is this recipe suitable for a diet?
Turkey thighs are an excellent source of lean protein, and the filling with plums and mushrooms adds extra nutrients. It is a healthy dish, ideal for a balanced meal.

Calories: one serving of stuffed turkey thighs contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the exact amount of filling used.

Conclusion

These stuffed turkey thighs are not only a simple recipe but also an opportunity to bring joy and flavor to your kitchen. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to treat your loved ones, you will find that it is a dish that will surely become a family favorite. So, get ready to enjoy a delicious and flavorful meal!