Deboned turkey thigh with herbs & Raw vegetable salad

Boneless turkey thigh with herbs and raw vegetable salad

If you're looking for a delicious and healthy recipe, boneless turkey thigh with herbs is the ideal choice. This recipe combines the juiciness of the meat with delicate flavors, providing a dish that will delight your family's taste buds. Turkey meat is often compared to chicken, but it has a richer texture and a distinct flavor. Baked in the oven, it is perfect for a weekend meal or a special dinner.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

*For the turkey thigh:*
- 1 kg boneless turkey thigh
- 6 garlic cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons mixed herbs (a blend of parsley, chives, shallots, garlic, pepper, chili)
- 2-3 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 25 g butter
- 100 ml white wine
- salt to taste

*For the rice:*
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 3 cups water
- 2 teaspoons Ras El Hanout spice (a Moroccan blend containing turmeric, cumin, coriander, ginger, chili, etc.)
- 1 teaspoon dried shallot
- salt and pepper to taste

*For the raw vegetable salad:*
- 3-4 carrots
- 1 celery (about the size of an apple)
- olive oil
- lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon mixed herbs (same as above)
- salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the turkey meat: Start by passing the turkey thigh through a flame to remove any hair. Then, wash the meat under cold running water and dry it with a clean towel. Carefully debone the turkey thigh using a technique I learned from my father. Cut the thigh at the base of the bone, then, with a sharp knife, peel the meat away from the bone.

2. Seasoning the meat: In a bowl, mix all the spices: rosemary, thyme, mixed herbs, salt, and pepper. I prefer to use a mortar and pestle to combine the flavors. Rub the turkey thigh with sunflower oil, then add the spice mix. You can use a brush to ensure that each piece is evenly seasoned. Insert garlic cloves (wash them but leave them in their skins) and add a few pieces of butter on top.

3. Baking the meat: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the turkey thigh in a baking tray and cover it with aluminum foil (if the tray does not have a lid). Bake for 45-50 minutes, adding the wine after 25 minutes, when the meat starts to brown.

4. Preparing the rice: While the meat is baking, wash the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pan, sauté the rice in hot oil for 2-3 minutes, then add hot water, salt, and Ras El Hanout spice. Simmer the rice on low heat for 8-10 minutes, then add the dried shallot. Cover the pan with a lid and let the rice sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

5. Preparing the raw vegetable salad: Grate the carrots and celery and mix them in a bowl. Add olive oil, lemon juice, mixed herbs, salt, and pepper to taste. The raw vegetable salad not only provides a contrast of textures but also a fresh and refreshing note to your meal.

6. Serving: After the turkey thigh is baked, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve the meat alongside fragrant rice and raw vegetable salad, enjoying a meal full of flavor.

Practical tips:
- If you want an even more intense flavor, you can marinate the meat in the spice mix for a few hours, even overnight.
- Replace sunflower oil with olive oil for an even richer taste.
- You can experiment with other spices, such as smoked paprika or turmeric, to add an extra dimension to the dish.

Nutritional benefits:
Turkey meat is an excellent source of lean protein, rich in B vitamins and essential minerals such as zinc and phosphorus. Rice is a good source of complex carbohydrates, while the raw vegetable salad provides fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
- Sure! The recipe works well with chicken, but the baking time will be shorter.

2. What other side dishes can I serve with this recipe?
- You can try baked potatoes or grilled vegetables for a delicious variation.

3. How can I adapt the recipe for vegetarians?
- Replace the turkey meat with portobello mushrooms or marinated tofu for a delicious alternative.

This recipe for boneless turkey thigh with herbs, accompanied by rice and raw vegetable salad, is more than just a dish; it's a culinary experience that blends flavors and textures to create an unforgettable meal. Try it and let yourself be carried away by the flavor! Enjoy your meal!