Turkey meat with artichokes and leeks

Delicious Turkey Thigh Recipe with Artichokes and Leeks

Today, I invite you to discover a savory recipe, perfect for a family meal or a special occasion. Turkey thigh with artichokes and leeks is not only nutritious but also full of flavors that will delight your taste buds. This recipe combines the tenderness of the meat with the delicate texture of the artichoke and the sweetness of the leek, creating an unforgettable dish.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 turkey thigh (approximately 1.3 kg)
- 2 leeks
- 1 can of artichokes (approximately 400 g)
- 350 ml tomato sauce
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Zest of one orange
- 2 garlic cloves
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
- Paprika, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparing the turkey thigh:

1. Start by washing the turkey thigh under cold running water. Make sure to remove any excess water by patting the meat dry with a paper towel. This step is essential for achieving a nice crust during baking.

2. In a small bowl, mix salt, ground pepper, and a little paprika. Rub the turkey thigh with this mixture, ensuring that every part of the meat is well-seasoned. This combination will add a note of flavor and intensify the final taste.

3. Place the turkey thigh in a baking dish, then drizzle it with olive oil. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture during the first stage of baking.

4. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the dish inside. Bake the thigh for 30 minutes, then remove the aluminum foil. Now, you will need to baste the meat with the oil from the dish occasionally to achieve even browning.

5. As the thigh bakes, start preparing the vegetables. Peel and halve the garlic cloves. Wash the leeks and slice them into thin rounds. These vegetables will add a wonderful flavor to the dish.

6. After about 30 minutes, when the thigh begins to brown, add the garlic cloves and leek rounds to the dish. Let them sauté together with the thigh, stirring occasionally, so that the garlic releases its aroma and the leek softens.

7. After a few minutes, add the tomato sauce, salt, ground black pepper, and orange zest. These ingredients will add a note of freshness and a pleasant contrast of flavors.

8. Five minutes before finishing baking, add the artichokes cut into smaller pieces. This will add a special texture and a slightly sweet taste, perfectly complemented by the other ingredients.

9. When the turkey thigh is well-browned and cooked through, remove the dish from the oven. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before slicing.

10. Serve the turkey thigh with the aromatic vegetables on top, sprinkled with freshly chopped parsley. This will add a splash of color and freshness to the dish.

Useful tips:

- If you prefer, you can cut the turkey thigh into smaller pieces before seasoning it. This will reduce the baking time and allow the flavors to penetrate the meat better.
- Make sure to check the internal temperature of the meat with a kitchen thermometer. The turkey thigh is cooked when it reaches 75°C (165°F) internally.
- You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or potatoes, to make this dish a complete main course.

Nutritional benefits:

Turkey thigh is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for maintaining muscle mass. It is also rich in B vitamins, which help convert food into energy. Artichokes are known for their antioxidant properties and are beneficial for digestive health.

Possible variations:

- Experiment with different spices, such as garlic powder or herbs (oregano, thyme) to vary the flavor of the dish.
- Substitute the tomato sauce with Greek yogurt sauce for a creamier, refreshing version.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of meat instead of turkey thigh?
Of course! This recipe can easily be adapted for chicken or pork.

2. How can I keep the meat tender?
Make sure not to overcook it. Let it rest after being removed from the oven to maintain its juiciness.

3. What side dish pairs best with this dish?
Basmati rice or mashed potatoes are excellent complementary choices.

Drink pairings:

To complement this delicious meal, I recommend serving a dry white wine or fresh lemonade. These will balance the rich flavors of the meat and vegetables.

In conclusion, turkey thigh with artichokes and leeks is a simple yet impressive recipe that will bring joy to your tables. I encourage you to try it and adapt it to your personal preferences. Cooking is an art, and every recipe is an opportunity to create unforgettable moments with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!