Oven-roasted turkey leg in tomato sauce

Turkey pot roast in tomato sauce

A dish said to bring together tradition and comfort, turkey pot roast in tomato sauce is an excellent choice for family meals or special occasions. Its rich aroma and tender texture turn each serving into a true celebration of flavors. In this guide, I will accompany you step by step on the culinary adventure of preparing this delicious pot roast.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

- For the pot roast:
- 2 pieces of turkey pot roast (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
- salt, to taste
- ground pepper, to taste
- 1 glass of dry white wine (approximately 200 ml)
- 1/2 cup of water

- For the sauce:
- 1 medium onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup tomato juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- salt, to taste
- ground pepper, to taste
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh parsley, for decoration

Step by step:

Step 1: Preparing the meat

1. Start by washing the turkey pot roast pieces well under cold running water. Make sure they are free from impurities.
2. Excess moisture can affect the meat's texture, so pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel.
3. Season the meat with salt and pepper on all sides, then rub it with olive oil. This step will not only add flavor but will also help form a delicious crust during baking.

Step 2: Baking the meat

1. Place the pot roast pieces in a baking dish. Pour the white wine and 1/2 cup of water over the meat. This will keep the meat moist and infuse flavors during baking.
2. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Let the meat bake for about 1 hour.
3. Occasionally, baste the meat with the sauce formed in the dish to keep it juicy.

Step 3: Preparing the sauce

1. While the meat is baking, you can prepare the sauce. Peel and finely chop the onion. Also, peel the garlic and slice it thinly.
2. In a saucepan, heat a little olive oil and add the onion and garlic. Let them sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5-6 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add the tomato paste and sugar to the saucepan, mixing well. Let it boil for a few minutes, then add a cup of water, tomato juice, bay leaves, and dried rosemary.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the saucepan and let the sauce simmer on low heat until it thickens and becomes fragrant, about 15-20 minutes. Finally, remove the bay leaves.

Step 4: Finishing the dish

1. Once the meat is well done, take the dish out of the oven. Pour the previously prepared sauce over the turkey pot roast and return it to the oven for another 5-6 minutes, uncovered, to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness and color.

Serving

This turkey pot roast in tomato sauce pairs perfectly with sides like boiled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or roasted potatoes. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad or coleslaw to balance the richness of the dish.

A brief history

Turkey pot roast is a dish that combines culinary tradition with moments of conviviality. It is often associated with festive meals, being a popular choice in many cultures. The slow cooking of the meat in rich sauce allows the flavors to develop, transforming a simple piece of meat into a memorable gastronomic experience.

Useful tips

- Choose quality meat: Opt for turkey pot roast from a trusted supplier to ensure you get tender and juicy meat.
- Marinating: If you have time, you can let the meat marinate in wine, olive oil, salt, and pepper for a few hours or even overnight to intensify the flavors.
- Sauce variations: You can experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or oregano, to give a personal touch to the sauce.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use another type of meat? Yes! This recipe can also be adapted for other types of meat, such as pork or beef, but the cooking time will vary.
- How can I make the sauce spicier? Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce, depending on your preferences.
- How long can I keep leftovers? The dish can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or skillet to maintain its juiciness.

Conclusion

Turkey pot roast in tomato sauce is a simple yet impressive recipe, ideal for any occasion. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a party with friends, this dish will surely bring joy and satisfaction to your tables. So, dare to experiment and enjoy every bite!