Turkey meat in white sauce

Turkey leg in white sauce: A delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Introduction

Turkey leg in white sauce is a recipe that combines the delicate flavors of the meat with the richness of a creamy sauce, bringing a touch of comfort to our tables. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or for those moments when you want to impress your guests with a tasty yet easy-to-make dish.

The history of turkey preparation is closely linked to festive culinary traditions, often associated with holiday meals. However, we encourage you to enjoy it anytime you wish, as every meal deserves to be special.

Ingredients

- 1 turkey leg (preferably the upper part)
- 1 large onion
- 1 carrot
- 2 fresh mushrooms (or a small can of canned mushrooms)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 20 g butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 500 ml water
- 1 chicken stock cube

Ingredient details

- Turkey leg: Choose a quality turkey leg with a moderate fat content to achieve juicy, tender meat. It is an excellent source of protein and is leaner than other types of meat.
- Onion, carrot, and mushrooms: These vegetables not only add flavor but also essential nutrients, such as vitamins A and C. Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and contribute to a pleasant umami taste.
- Sour cream: Choose sour cream with a fat content of over 20% for a creamier, richer sauce.
- Flour: This will help thicken the sauce and bind the flavors of the ingredients.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Prepare the meat: Start by washing the turkey leg well. Dry it with a paper towel to remove excess water. Now, cut it into large pieces to make it easier to cook.

2. Browning the meat: In a large skillet, add the oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the turkey leg. Browning the meat is essential, so make sure to give it enough time to achieve a beautiful golden color. This will add depth to the final flavor.

3. Adding the vegetables: Cut the onion, carrot, and mushrooms into large pieces. After the meat has browned, add the vegetables to the skillet. Cook them together for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Thickening the sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the meat and vegetables, mixing well to incorporate it. Let it cook for 2 minutes to eliminate the taste of raw flour.

5. Preparing the broth: In a separate container, prepare a broth from warm water and the chicken stock cube. Make sure it is warm before adding it to the skillet to avoid shocking the ingredients.

6. Combining the ingredients: Pour the broth into the skillet, stirring continuously. This step will help release the flavors from the meat and vegetables, blending them into a tasty sauce.

7. Boiling: Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes, until the meat becomes tender and the vegetables are well cooked.

8. Preparing the sauce: Once the meat and vegetables are cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them cool slightly. Place the vegetables in a blender and blend until you achieve a creamy sauce.

9. Finalizing the dish: Return the sauce to the skillet, add the sour cream, and mix well. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes on low heat to combine the flavors.

10. Serving: The turkey can be served alongside sides such as mashed potatoes, rice, or sautéed vegetables. A fresh salad will perfectly complement this dish, bringing a crunchy contrast.

Useful tips

- Make sure to use a heavy-bottomed skillet to avoid burning the ingredients.
- If you want a spicier sauce, add a little cayenne pepper or paprika.
- For a touch of freshness, add some finely chopped parsley before serving.

Possible variations

- Turkey with shiitake mushrooms: Replace regular mushrooms with shiitake mushrooms for a more intense flavor.
- Adding fresh herbs: Oregano, thyme, or rosemary can add an extra layer of flavor.
- White wine sauce: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a distinct and elegant note.

Nutritional benefits

Turkey leg is an excellent source of protein, with a low saturated fat content. Additionally, the carrot and mushrooms provide antioxidants and essential vitamins to the body, contributing to a balanced and healthy meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, this recipe can easily be adapted. You can use chicken or pork, but the cooking time will change.

2. How can I store the sauce?
The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it on low heat before serving again.

3. What sides go best with it?
Mashed potatoes, rice, or grilled vegetables are all excellent options that complement this delicious dish.

4. Is this recipe suitable for festive meals?
Absolutely! Turkey leg in white sauce is an elegant dish, perfect for special occasions.

I hope this recipe for turkey leg in white sauce brings joy and flavor to your meals. Cooking is an art, and every meal prepared with love has the power to bring people together. Enjoy your meal!