The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Turkey Gizzards in the Oven

Turkey gizzards are a delicious and underrated cut of meat that can transform a holiday spread or everyday meal when prepared properly. In this comprehensive guide I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to cook turkey gizzards to tender juicy perfection in the oven.

What are Turkey Gizzards?

Let’s start with the basics – what exactly are turkey gizzards? Gizzards are a part of the digestive system found in the lower stomach of turkeys chickens and other poultry. As a muscle, gizzards play an important role in grinding up food for the bird. When cooked right, gizzards become wonderfully tender with a unique, rich flavor.

Why Cook Gizzards?

If you typically discard gizzards, it’s time to give them another look. Here’s why these little nuggets deserve a place in your kitchen:

• Inexpensive – Gizzards cost just a fraction of breast or thigh meat. At around $2-3 per pound, they provide budget-friendly protein.

• Nutritious – Gizzards contain lots of protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins. They are also low in fat and calories.

• Unique Taste & Texture – The chewy, meaty texture of gizzards contrasts beautifully with other Thanksgiving flavors.

• Sustainable – Making use of the whole bird minimizes waste.

• Tradition – Gizzards have graced holiday tables for generations. Carry on the time-honored tradition!

Purchasing and Prepping Gizzards

When buying and prepping gizzards, keep these tips in mind:

• Seek out fresh gizzards for maximum moisture and flavor. Opt for vacuum-sealed packages without discoloration or odors.

• Give gizzards a good wash under cold water to remove impurities. Gently rub away any remaining fat, blood clots or grit.

• Trim excess fat, membranes or discolored portions with a sharp knife.

• Slice gizzards in half lengthwise prior to cooking for optimal tenderness.

Now let’s get to the fun part – cooking!

How to Cook Gizzards to Perfection in the Oven

The low, slow heat of the oven gently transforms tough gizzards into fork-tender morsels. Here is a simple oven method for flawless gizzards every time:

Ingredients:

• 1 – 1 1/2 lbs turkey gizzards, washed, trimmed, halved
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1⁄4 cup chicken broth or water
• Salt, pepper, dried herbs to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Arrange gizzards in a baking dish in a single layer. Sprinkle with minced garlic.

3. Pour in chicken broth or water. Add about 1/4 cup or just enough to cover gizzards halfway.

4. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, sage and other desired dried herbs.

5. Cover baking dish tightly with foil. This allows the gizzards to steam and braise in their own juices.

6. Bake for 2 hours, until gizzards are very tender when pierced with a fork.

7. Remove foil last 15 minutes to lightly brown gizzards, if desired.

8. Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy gizzards as is or use them to elevate soups, stews, stuffings and more!

The long covered bake tenderizes the gizzards beautifully. Be sure not to overcook, as they can become dry. Use a fork test to check doneness after 2 hours.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Gizzards

• Keep it low and slow – Bake gizzards at 325-350°F to gently break down connective tissues. High heat causes toughness.

• Liquids are key – The braising liquid steams gizzards as they cook. Replenish with broth if needed.

• Cover it up – Covering the baking dish with foil traps moisture and promotes tender results.

• Fat = flavor – Gizzards have little fat, so add olive oil or butter before cooking.

• Season well – Gizzards need bold flavors. Use garlic, rosemary, thyme and plenty of salt and pepper.

• Don’t overcook – Test tenderness at 2 hours. Going longer risks dry, rubbery gizzards.

• Rest before serving – Letting gizzards sit for 5-10 minutes after baking allows juices to redistribute.

Complementary Flavors for Gizzards

Serve oven-baked gizzards with sides that provide color, crunch and flavor contrast:

• Hearty greens like collard greens, kale or spinach
• Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
• Rice or wild rice pilaf
• Gravy or mushroom sauce
• Cranberry relish or sauce
• Sauteed peppers and onions
• Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, turnips

Herbs that pair especially well with gizzards include sage, thyme, rosemary, parsley and oregano. A quick pan sauce of olive oil, lemon juice and these fresh herbs takes basic roasted gizzards to the next level.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftover baked gizzards keep well for 3-4 days refrigerated. Reheat them in the oven at 300°F until warmed through, or simmer in broth or gravy for added moisture. For longer storage, freeze cooked gizzards in an airtight container for 2-3 months.