Should You Cook Turkey Gizzards with the Turkey? Tips for Preparing Giblets

When cooking a whole turkey, you’ll find a bag of giblets inside the cavity. These turkey innards include the neck, heart, gizzard and liver. But should you cook the gizzards and other giblets alongside the turkey? Here’s what you need to know about preparing turkey gizzards and making the most of these nutritious and flavorful turkey parts.

What is a Turkey Gizzard?

The gizzard is a part of a turkey’s digestive system located between the crop and intestine It’s a very muscular stomach-like organ filled with sand and grit that aids in grinding up food

Since the gizzard is constantly contracting, it develops into a very tough piece of meat The muscle needs to be cooked slowly and gently in moist heat to become tender enough to enjoy

Benefits of Eating Turkey Gizzards

While gizzards may look unappealing, they are actually very nutritious

• High in protein – Gizzards are almost pure muscle and therefore pack a powerful protein punch. A 3 ounce serving contains around 12 grams of protein.

• Low in fat – With only around 3 grams of fat per serving, gizzards are a lean source of protein.

• Rich in iron – Gizzards contain substantial amounts of iron, an essential mineral that aids in oxygen transport and energy production.

• Good source of choline – Choline promotes nervous system and brain health. It’s especially vital for fetal development.

• Contains vitamin B12 – Necessary for red blood cell formation and neurological function.

• Provides zinc – This mineral supports immune system function and cell growth.

So don’t toss the gizzards! They provide nutrients that support your health in many ways.

Do You Cook Gizzards with a Turkey?

Gizzards require longer cooking times than poultry meat. Roasting them alongside the turkey would result in overcooked meat or undercooked gizzards.

It’s best to cook gizzards separately from the turkey using moist heat cooking methods like:

• Braising
• Stewing
• Slow cooking
• Pressure cooking

This slowly transforms the tough meat into tender, savory gizzards infused with flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Turkey Gizzards

Follow these steps for properly cleaning and cooking turkey gizzards:

Cleaning Gizzards

1. Rinse gizzards under cold running water. Use your fingers to rub off any excess fat or membranes.

2. Trim off and discard any discolored portions or residual trachea.

3. Slice gizzards in half lengthwise then slice each half into 2-3 pieces.

Cooking Gizzards

1. Place prepared gizzards in a pot and cover with water or chicken broth. Add seasonings like garlic, onion, bay leaves, salt and pepper.

2. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer until fork tender, about 1 1/2 – 2 hours.

3. For richer flavor, braise gizzards in sauce or use broth. Cook until very tender, 2+ hours.

4. Once cooked through, gizzards can be fried, added to soup or gravy, used in stir fries, etc.

Serving Ideas for Cooked Turkey Gizzards

Once slowly braised or pressure cooked until tender, here are some delicious ways to use turkey gizzards:

• Chop and add to gravy, giving it more texture and nutrition.

• Dice, coat in flour and spices and pan fry into giblet “nuggets”.

• Shred and use in casseroles like gumbo or turkey tetrazzini.

• Slice thin and stir fry with veggies in a flavorful sauce.

• Simmer into hearty soups like turkey rice or noodle soup.

• Puree cooked gizzards and blend into stuffing for extra juicy flavor.

• Coat in Buffalo wing sauce and bake into spicy gizzard poppers.

With the right preparation, gizzards transform from a chewy muscle to a tender, flavorsome addition to many dishes. Don’t toss them out – make the most of these underused turkey parts!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Turkey Gizzards

Can you cook gizzards with the turkey?

No, gizzards require much longer, slower cooking than a turkey. Cook them separately using moist heat like braising.

Do you have to cook gizzards before eating?

Absolutely! Gizzards must be slowly simmered or braised until fork tender before consumption. Eating them uncooked would be extremely unpleasant.

How long should you cook turkey gizzards?

Cook gizzards for 1 1/2 – 2 hours minimum either on the stovetop or in a pressure cooker. They’re done when very fork tender.

What’s the best way to cook gizzards?

Low, slow moist heat cooking like braising, stewing or pressure cooking yields the most tender gizzards. Fry only after fully cooked.

Can you eat turkey gizzards raw?

Gizzards are too tough and chewy to consume raw. Always cook fully to soften the meat and kill any potential bacteria.

Why do gizzards taste bitter?

Improperly cleaned gizzards or overcooking can cause bitterness. Clean thoroughly, trim all membranes and avoid overcooking for best flavor.

Don’t let the unusual appearance of gizzards stop you from giving them a try! Cooked slowly in moist heat, they offer a tasty chewy meatiness that adds protein and valuable nutrients to soups, gravies and more. Put that bag of giblets to good use!