Turkey thigh in the oven

Turkey thigh in the oven is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that can bring a touch of flavor and aroma to your kitchen. This recipe is ideal for holiday meals or a special family dinner. With a combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients, you will achieve tender and juicy meat, perfect to be served alongside your favorite side dish.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 turkey thigh
- 3-4 garlic cloves
- ½ teaspoon pepper (I recommend a 7-color pepper mix for a complex flavor)
- a pinch of oregano
- a pinch of ground cinnamon
- a pinch of basil
- salt to taste
- 200 ml tomato juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 100 ml white wine
- 200 ml water

Preparation:

1. Preparing the turkey thigh: Start by washing the turkey thigh well under a stream of cold water. Remove any excess fat or skin if necessary. Place the thigh in a baking dish slightly larger than its size to allow the sauce to circulate freely.

2. Spice mix: In a small bowl, add the pepper, oregano, cinnamon, and basil. These spices will add a special fragrance and flavor to your dish. Mix the spices well with a teaspoon, then add the crushed garlic (or finely chopped if you prefer).

3. Preparing the sauce: In another container, combine the tomato juice, olive oil, white wine, and water. Mix everything well, then pour the spice mixture over the sauce. Ensure all ingredients are well integrated.

4. Marinating the thigh: Pour the resulting sauce over the turkey thigh, covering the meat evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the preheated oven and let the thigh bake for about 1 hour. After 30 minutes, remove the aluminum foil and allow the meat to brown. It is important to occasionally baste the meat with the sauce from the dish to keep it juicy.

6. Checking doneness: After 1 hour of baking, use a fork to check if the thigh is cooked. If the fork easily penetrates the meat, it is ready. If not, leave it in the oven for a few more minutes.

7. Serving: Once the thigh is ready, take the dish out of the oven and let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will help the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender. You can serve it warm alongside your desired side dish, such as mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Practical tips:
- Choosing the turkey thigh: If possible, opt for a high-quality turkey thigh, preferably from local farmers. This will make a significant difference in taste.
- Spices: You can experiment with different spices based on your preferences. For example, add a pinch of chili for a spicier taste or try fresh herbs for an extra flavor boost.
- Alternative sides: Turkey thigh pairs well with a variety of sides. You can try wild rice, sautéed vegetables, or even a potato salad for a pleasant contrast.

Nutritional information:
A serving of turkey thigh contains approximately 350-400 calories, being an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and minerals such as iron and zinc. It is also a healthier option compared to other types of red meat.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use turkey breast instead of thigh? Yes, but the baking time will be shorter. Make sure it doesn't dry out.
- How can I store leftovers? Turkey thigh can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and for a longer duration, you can freeze it.

Turkey thigh in the oven is more than just a meal; it is a culinary experience that brings the family together. Whether you choose to prepare it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a delicious dinner, this recipe will delight you every time. Savor every bite and enjoy the moments spent with your loved ones!