The gizzard is an often overlooked part of the turkey that is packed with flavor and nutrition. Found in the digestive tract of poultry, the gizzard is a muscular organ that helps grind up food. With a rich taste and meaty texture when cooked, gizzards are a delicious addition to many dishes. If you want to take advantage of this underutilized turkey part, learning how to cook turkey gizzards is essential.
Why Cook Turkey Gizzards?
There are several great reasons to cook up turkey gizzards:
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Flavor – Gizzards have a robust, savory flavor when cooked. They taste slightly gamy and mineral-y.
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Nutrition – Gizzards are high in protein iron zinc, and B vitamins. They make for a very nutrient-dense food.
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Sustainability – By cooking gizzards, you use more of the turkey and reduce waste. It gives the bird more purpose.
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Affordability – Gizzards are much more budget-friendly than turkey breast or other prized cuts. You get delicious turkey flavor at a fraction of the price.
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Versatility – Cooked gizzards can be used in stuffing gravy sandwiches, stews, fried rice, and more. They are very versatile!
How to Select Turkey Gizzards
When buying turkey gizzards, look for ones that are:
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Raw – Only raw gizzards need cooking. Avoid pre-cooked ones.
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Intact – Make sure the gizzard sac is not torn or ruptured.
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Plump – They should look full and rounded, not shriveled.
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Unblemished – No major discoloration or bruising.
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Fresh Smelling – Gizzards should not have a strong odor.
Buying high-quality raw gizzards ensures the best flavor and texture after cooking.
Preparing Raw Turkey Gizzards
Proper preparation is key before cooking gizzards. Here are some steps to follow:
- Rinse under cold water and pat dry.
- Cut away excess fat, membranes, and sinew.
- Peel off the outer skin covering the gizzard.
- Cut gizzards into halves or strips depending on the recipe.
- Consider soaking in cold water or buttermilk for 30 mins – 2 hours to help tenderize.
- Marinate for added flavor (optional).
Prepping the gizzards will allow seasonings to penetrate and the meat to cook evenly.
How to Cook Turkey Gizzards – 3 Easy Methods
Ready to cook those turkey gizzards? Here are three simple methods:
1. Braising
- In a pot, cook onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and seasonings in oil.
- Add gizzards and enough broth or water to cover.
- Simmer partially covered over medium-low heat for 1-2 hours until tender.
Braising tenderizes the gizzards and infuses them with flavorful liquid.
2. Pan Frying
- Season gizzards with salt, pepper, spices, or buttermilk marinade.
- Fry in oil or lard over medium-high heat for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Cook until browned and crisp on all sides.
Frying adds crispy texture and caramelized exterior.
3. Roasting
- Toss gizzards in oil and seasonings like thyme, paprika, garlic.
- Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 30-45 minutes.
- Roast until browned and cooked through.
Roasting brings out the rich, savory flavor of the gizzards.
Cooking Times and Temperatures
To ensure food safety, turkey gizzards must reach the proper internal temperature during cooking.
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Whole gizzards should reach 165°F internally.
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Cook sliced gizzards to 145°F minimum.
Cooking times will vary based on the method. Test doneness with a meat thermometer for accuracy. Allow thicker cuts of gizzards to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Cooking Turkey Gizzards
Follow these tips for tasty, tender gizzards every time:
- Simmer in flavorful liquid like broth, wine, or barbecue sauce.
- Choose gentle cooking methods like braising, stewing, or poaching.
- Slice or cut gizzards to shorter widths if aiming for faster cook times.
- Allow to marinate overnight for the most flavor infusion.
- Cook low and slow when possible for ultimate tenderness.
- Pair with bold spices and seasonings to complement the strong flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Cooked Turkey Gizzards
Once you’ve cooked your turkey gizzards, here are some delicious ways to serve them:
- Chopped in gravy or stuffing
- Added to soups, stews, or chili
- Over cooked grains like rice, farro, or barley
- In a sandwich or wrap
- On top of a fresh salad
- Mixed into casseroles or pasta bakes
- Served in curry or stir fry dishes
- Enjoyed on their own as a snack or small plate
The possibilities are endless for putting those flavorful turkey gizzards to use! Don’t let this nutritious and tasty poultry part go to waste again.
FAQs About Cooking Turkey Gizzards
Are turkey gizzards tough to cook?
Turkey gizzards can be tough if not cooked properly. Choosing gentle, moist-heat cooking methods will yield the most tender results. Avoid quick-cooking techniques.
How do I make them less chewy?
Cut gizzards into smaller pieces, marinate before cooking, and use slow braising or stewing techniques to break down the collagen and muscles. This makes them less chewy.
What’s the best way to cook for dogs?
Simmer plain gizzards in water or unsalted broth for at least 60-90 minutes until very soft. Chop and add to your dog’s food. Avoid heavily seasoned gizzards.
Can I eat them raw?
It is not recommended to eat raw gizzards due to the potential for bacteria exposure. Always cook turkey gizzards thoroughly before consuming.
How long do cooked gizzards last?
Cooked gizzards will last 3-4 days refrigerated and 6 months in the freezer. Store cooked gizzards in an airtight container and reheat fully before eating for food safety.
Discover Delicious Turkey Gizzards
With their stellar nutrition and bold, meaty taste, turkey gizzards deserve a place at the table. By properly preparing and cooking gizzards through braising, frying, or roasting, you can enjoy this often underutilized part of the turkey. Turn gizzards into the star of your next sandwich, soup, or stuffing with these helpful tips. Your taste buds will thank you!
What Are Turkey Gizzards?
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s first understand what turkey gizzards are. Gizzards are part of the turkey’s digestive system and are found in the lower part of the bird’s stomach. They play a crucial role in breaking down food and contain a unique texture and flavor. When cooked properly, turkey gizzards are tender, succulent, and packed with rich flavors.
First things first, you’ll need to prepare the turkey gizzards for cooking. Follow these simple steps:
- Start by cleaning the gizzards thoroughly under cold running water. Remove any excess fat, grime, or debris.
- Once cleaned, pat them dry using paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture and ensures better browning during the cooking process.
- Using a sharp knife, trim off any excess membrane or tough parts from the gizzards. This step will help tenderize the gizzards and improve their overall texture.
- Once the gizzards are cleaned and trimmed, you’re ready to move on to the cooking process.
Cooking Methods for Turkey Gizzards
Stovetop simmering is one of the most common methods for cooking turkey gizzards. Follow these steps:
- In a large saucepan, add the cleaned and trimmed gizzards.
- Add enough water or broth to cover the gizzards completely.
- Season the liquid with your desired spices, such as salt, pepper, garlic, or herbs.
- Bring the liquid to a boil and then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the saucepan and let the gizzards simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours until they become tender and easily chewable.
- Once cooked, you can enjoy the gizzards as they are or use them in various dishes, such as stews, soups, or stir-fries.
Oven roasting is another fantastic method to enhance the flavors and texture of turkey gizzards. Follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the cleaned and trimmed gizzards in a roasting pan or baking dish.
- Drizzle the gizzards with olive oil and season them liberally with your favorite spices and herbs.
- Cover the pan with foil and roast the gizzards for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they are tender and well-browned.
- Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and the juices to redistribute.
- Serve the roasted turkey gizzards as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a main course with a delicious dipping sauce.
Turkey gizzards may not be the most popular cut of meat, but they certainly deserve a place on your dinner table. With their unique texture and rich flavors, cooking turkey gizzards is a wonderful way to add variety to your meals. Whether you simmer them on the stovetop or roast them in the oven, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the delicious results. So, this holiday season, don’t let the gizzards go to waste – give them a try and impress your guests with your culinary skills! Share your tips and techniques for preparing turkey gizzards in the