When most people think of turkey, their minds often wander to the plump, juicy breast or crispy-skinned drumsticks. Yet, there’s a hidden gem that deserves its time in the spotlight: the turkey neck. Often overlooked, turkey necks are not only affordable and flavorful but also packed with health benefits. Let’s dive into why turkey necks should be a staple in your kitchen and explore two delicious recipes to make the most of this underrated cut.
Health Benefits of Turkey Necks
Turkey necks are a nutritional powerhouse. Here's why you might want to add them to your meals:
Rich in Protein:
Turkey necks provide a high-quality source of protein, essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.Bone Health:
Being rich in connective tissue and cartilage, turkey necks are a fantastic source of collagen. Collagen promotes joint health, supports skin elasticity, and contributes to strong bones. Additionally, turkey neck bones release calcium and phosphorus when cooked, key minerals for bone health.Gut Health:
The collagen and gelatin released during slow cooking or simmering help support gut lining integrity, making it a soothing option for those with digestive issues.Mineral Boost:
Turkey necks are packed with trace minerals like zinc, magnesium, and selenium. These nutrients play roles in immunity, energy production, and antioxidant defense.
Recipe 1: Turkey Neck Broth
Turkey neck broth is deeply nourishing and incredibly easy to make. Use it as a base for soups, stews, or simply sip it as a warm, comforting drink.
Ingredients:
2 pounds of roasted turkey necks (put thawed necks on a sheet pan and roast until browned, or use raw, but roasting helps a ton with a more complex flavor)
2 carrots, roughly chopped
2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
1 onion, quartered
4 garlic cloves, smashed
2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
10 cups of water
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Place the turkey necks in a large stockpot or slow cooker.
Add the vegetables, garlic, bay leaves, and apple cider vinegar. The vinegar helps extract minerals from the bones.
Pour in the water, ensuring the necks are fully submerged.
Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 8-12 hours (or 4-6 hours in a pressure cooker).
Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve. Discard the solids.
Season with salt and pepper. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
Recipe 2: Cajun Turkey Neck Stew (Turkey Necks with Creole Flavor)
This Creole-inspired dish transforms humble turkey necks into a hearty, flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
2 pounds of turkey necks
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1 onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons Creole seasoning (look for non-irradiated)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
4 cups poultry broth (chicken or turkey broth works)
2 cups cooked jasmine white rice (for serving)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the turkey necks on all sides, then remove them and set aside.
In the same pot, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes). Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
Stir in the Creole seasoning and smoked paprika, cooking until fragrant.
Add the diced tomatoes and broth, then return the turkey necks to the pot.
Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
Serve the stew over rice, garnished with fresh parsley.
Why Turkey Necks Deserve a Spot in Your Kitchen
Turkey necks are a budget-friendly, nutrient-packed cut that can transform humble meals into hearty, flavorful dishes. Whether you’re looking to make a restorative broth or an adventurous ethnic dish, turkey necks offer versatility and depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. Try these recipes, and you might just find yourself seeking out turkey necks on every grocery trip!
