Turkey thighs with apples baked in the oven

Turkey thighs with apples baked in the oven

Who doesn’t love the delicious aroma of a meal prepared with love, combining the flavor of juicy meat with the sweetness of fruits? Today, I will present you a simple and tasty recipe for turkey thighs with apples baked in the oven, which will delight every family meal. This recipe is not just a method of preparing turkey, but a culinary experience that will bring a touch of warmth and comfort in every bite.

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

Necessary ingredients:
- 4 turkey thighs
- 1 apple (choose a sweet apple, such as Gala or Fuji, for a pleasant flavor contrast)
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 bell pepper (optional, for a note of freshness)
- 1 chili pepper (for a touch of spiciness)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Aromatic spices: mint (dried or fresh), tarragon, thyme, rosemary, marjoram
- 300 ml water

A touch of history
Turkey thighs, an ingredient often associated with festive meals, have been cooked in various ways over the centuries. This recipe, which combines meat with apples, is inspired by culinary traditions that leverage fruits in savory dishes, bringing a harmony of textures and flavors.

Step by step in preparing turkey thighs with apples

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the turkey thighs well under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove any impurities. After drying them with a paper towel, make a few incisions in the meat so the spices can penetrate better.

2. Seasoning the meat: Season the thighs with salt, pepper, olive oil, and desired spices. Use thyme, mint, tarragon, rosemary, and marjoram to taste. These flavors will blend perfectly with the sweetness of the apples and give the meat a special taste.

3. Filling the incisions: Slice garlic thinly and fill the incisions of the thighs with these slices. Garlic will not only add flavor but also enhance the aroma.

4. Preparing the apples and vegetables: Slice the apple thinly and drizzle it with a little lemon juice to prevent oxidation. If you choose to add the bell pepper, cut it into small cubes. The chili pepper can be finely chopped and added for a touch of spiciness.

5. Assembling the dish: In a baking dish, place the turkey thighs and add the apple slices and bell pepper (if using). Pour 300 ml of water into the dish, which will help maintain the juiciness of the meat during baking.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After this period, turn the thighs over and let them brown well for about 20-30 minutes.

7. Serving: Once the thighs are browned and juicy, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute in the meat, making it even tastier.

Serving suggestions: These turkey thighs with apples can be served alongside various sides, such as mashed potatoes, wild rice, or a fresh salad. A bottle of dry white wine will perfectly complement the meal, adding a touch of elegance.

Useful tips:
- For an even more intense flavor, let the turkey thighs marinate in spices and olive oil for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Experiment with other fruits, such as plums or peaches, to vary the recipe.
- If you want a healthier option, use skinless turkey thighs.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat? Of course! This recipe can also be adapted with chicken or pork.
2. How can I store the turkey thighs? If you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for 2-3 days. They can be reheated in the oven or in a pan.
3. What are the nutritional benefits of turkey thighs? Turkey thighs are an excellent source of protein, containing B vitamins and minerals such as zinc and phosphorus, making them a healthy choice for a balanced diet.

Calories: A serving of turkey thighs (about 200 g) contains between 300-350 calories, depending on the cooking method and added ingredients. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it perfect for family meals.

I hope you enjoy this recipe for turkey thighs with apples baked in the oven. Cooking is an art, and every meal is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories. Bon appétit!