Turkey necks are an underrated and inexpensive cut of meat that become meltingly tender and full of flavor when prepared in a pressure cooker. With the right technique, you can transform tough turkey necks into a delicious family meal or flavorful addition to soups and stews. This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about cooking turkey necks to perfection in a pressure cooker XL
Benefits of Cooking Turkey Necks in a Pressure Cooker
Pressure cooking is hands down the best method for cooking turkey necks. Here are some of the major benefits:
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Saves time – Pressure cooking can cut down typical cooking time by 70% or more Turkey necks can be ready in under an hour instead of needing to simmer for hours
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Retains moisture – The high pressure environment keeps moisture locked in the meat instead of evaporating out. This prevents turkey necks from drying out.
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Infuses flavor – Cooking in liquid under pressure forces seasonings and aromatics to thoroughly penetrate the meat. Turkey necks absorb all that delicious flavor.
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Yields tender meat – High heat and steam break down connective tissue. The result is turkey necks that are fall-off-the-bone tender.
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Makes flavorful broth – Turkey necks release gelatin, minerals, and nutrients into the cooking liquid, creating a nutritious, tasty broth.
Step-By-Step Guide to Cooking Turkey Necks
Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked pressure cooker turkey necks every time.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs turkey necks
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chicken or turkey broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp poultry seasoning
Instructions
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Pat the turkey necks dry and season all over with salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning.
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Select the sauté function on the pressure cooker. Heat oil and brown the turkey necks well on both sides.
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Add the onions and sauté briefly until softened. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute more.
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Stir in broth, water, bay leaves and any other aromatics or herbs.
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Lock the lid and ensure the pressure valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Allow 10 minute natural pressure release before quick releasing remaining pressure.
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Carefully remove lid. The turkey necks should be extremely tender and the meat pulling away from the bones.
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Transfer necks to a plate. Strain and defat the cooking liquid if desired.
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Serve the succulent turkey necks topped with the concentrated cooking broth for an easy, flavorful dish!
Tips and Variations
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For extra flavor, rub necks with a spice blend before browning. Cajun seasoning works great.
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Substitute ingredients like onions, garlic, broth etc. to your tastes.
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Add veggies like celery, carrots, potatoes in step 4 for one pot meal.
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Cook necks up to 2 hours for shredded meat. Perfect for soups, chili, etc.
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Shred meat from bones when cool enough to handle and use in casseroles, sandwiches, tacos, etc.
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Save bones to make bone broth stock in the pressure cooker after removing meat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Here are answers to some common turkey neck pressure cooking queries.
How long should I cook turkey necks?
Cooking time can vary from 30-60 minutes depending on size of pieces and your pressure cooker. Check for doneness after 30 minutes. The meat should be very tender and easy to shred off the bones.
Can I pressure cook frozen turkey necks?
Absolutely! Just increase cook time by 10-15 minutes. Thaw first for best results.
What size should I cut turkey necks?
Leave them whole or cut into 2-3 inch chunks. Smaller pieces will cook faster.
Can I use an Instant Pot?
Yes, Instant Pot is a very popular brand of electric pressure cooker. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for pressure cooking.
What is the release method?
After cooking, use natural release for 10 minutes to safely lower pressure. Then quick release remaining pressure before opening lid.
How do I thicken the broth?
Remove turkey necks and boil broth on sauté mode. Whisk in a roux, corn starch slurry or flour to reach desired thickness.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Refrigerate turkey necks and broth separately within 2 hours of cooking. Use leftovers within 3-4 days. Freeze for longer storage.
Once you master the basics of pressure cooking turkey necks, you can start experimenting with different seasonings, ingredients and cooking times to suit your preferences. In no time, you’ll be serving up gourmet-quality turkey neck dishes like a pro!
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How To Cook Turkey Necks In Instant Pot
Are you looking for a delicious and flavorful way to cook turkey necks? Look no further, because we have the perfect solution for you! Using your trusty Instant Pot, you can easily transform these humble cuts of meat into a mouthwatering dish that will leave you begging for seconds. Let’s dive in and learn how to cook turkey necks in an Instant Pot.
- 2 pounds of turkey necks
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- Sear the turkey necks: Set your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the olive oil and sear the turkey necks on all sides until nicely browned. This step helps to lock in the flavors.
- Add the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for a few minutes until they become fragrant and start to soften. This will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Season the turkey necks: Sprinkle the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper over the turkey necks. Ensure each piece is well-coated with the seasoning for maximum flavor.
- Pour in the chicken broth: Add the chicken broth to the Instant Pot. This will provide both moisture and additional flavor to the turkey necks.
- Pressure cook: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set the pressure cooking time to 25 minutes on high pressure. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release of pressure for 10 minutes before performing a quick release.
- Finish and serve: Carefully remove the turkey necks from the Instant Pot and transfer them to a serving plate. Let them rest for a few minutes before enjoying the succulent meat. You can also strain the broth and use it as a flavorful gravy for your turkey necks.
And there you have it – a simple and hassle-free way to cook turkey necks in your Instant Pot. This method ensures tender and juicy meat that will satisfy even the most discerning taste buds. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or using them as a flavorful addition to soups and stews, turkey necks cooked in the Instant Pot are sure to be a hit. So, grab your Instant Pot and get cooking! Share your thoughts and experiences on cooking turkey necks in the Instant Pot in our