Turkey meat with apples

Savory turkey thighs stuffed with apples and mushroom rice side dish

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

This recipe for turkey thighs stuffed with apples is a perfect combination of flavor and aroma, bringing an intense taste with a subtle sweetness to the plate. Prepared with simple ingredients, this recipe quickly becomes a family favorite, ideal for special lunches or dinners. So, let's get started!

Ingredients:

- 600 g turkey thighs
- 3 apples (choose sweet-tart varieties like Granny Smith)
- 1 carrot
- 1 red bell pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon curry
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme

For the side dish:

- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 jar mushrooms (about 400 g)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Thyme to taste

Step by step:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the turkey thighs well under cold running water. Make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess water. This step is essential for allowing the spices to adhere better to the meat.

2. Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, curry, and thyme. Rub the turkey thighs with this mixture, ensuring they are well coated. This combination of spices will give the meat a delicious aroma.

3. Preparing the apples: Peel the apples and slice them thinly. They will add a sweet note and a pleasant contrast to the meat's flavor.

4. Stuffing the thighs: Carefully separate the skin from the turkey thighs, being careful not to tear it completely. Stuff each thigh with the apple slices, then pull the skin back into its original position. This step will keep the meat juicy during baking.

5. Assembling the dish: In a baking tray, add the 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Place the stuffed turkey thighs in the tray. Cut the carrot into rounds and the red bell pepper into cubes and add them to the tray, along with the remaining apple slices. These vegetables will add a crunchy texture and fresh taste.

6. Baking: Drizzle everything with a little olive oil and add one cup of water. Cover the tray with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C for about 45 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and let it brown for another 15-20 minutes, basting the thighs occasionally with the sauce from the tray.

7. Preparing the mushroom rice side dish: In a deep pot, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the rinsed rice and sauté it lightly until it becomes translucent (about 2-3 minutes). This step will help the rice have a better texture after cooking.

8. Adding the mushrooms: Add the drained mushrooms from the jar and the soy sauce. Then pour in the 2 cups of water. Let it simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

9. Finishing the side dish: When the rice is almost cooked (about 15-20 minutes), add thyme, mix well, and turn off the heat. Cover the pot and let it sit for 15 minutes for the rice to absorb the last flavors.

Serving:

Serve the stuffed turkey thighs with the mushroom rice side dish. You can decorate the plate with a few fresh parsley or thyme leaves for a pop of color. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests with a delicious and original dish.

Personal tip:

For an even more intense flavor, you can add some chopped nuts to the apple stuffing. Also, if you like stronger flavors, replace the olive oil with butter for a richer texture and taste.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken or turkey, depending on your preferences, but make sure to adjust the baking time according to the type of meat chosen.

- What other vegetables can I add?
You can add potatoes or zucchini, which will bake along with the meat and absorb the delicious flavors.

- How can I make the recipe faster?
For a quicker version, you can use boneless turkey thighs, which cook faster.

Nutritional benefits:

Turkey thigh is an excellent source of lean protein, rich in B vitamins, while apples provide fiber and antioxidants. The mushroom rice complements the meal with simple and complex carbohydrates, providing the necessary energy for an active day.

Conclusion:

This recipe for turkey thighs stuffed with apples is not only delicious but also easy to make, making you feel like a true chef. Experiment with the ingredients and season to your liking, and every meal will become a special occasion. Don't forget to share this recipe with friends and family and enjoy the moments spent together at the table!