Braised Turkey Wings recipe

There’s something truly magical about braised meats. The low and slow cooking process transforms tougher cuts into tender, flavorful masterpieces. And when it comes to comfort food that’s both satisfying and impressive, braised turkey wings are a hidden gem. For years, turkey wings were something I’d overlook at the grocery store, opting for the more familiar breasts and thighs. That was until a friend shared this braised turkey wings recipe, and everything changed. The aroma that filled my kitchen as these wings simmered away was intoxicating – savory herbs mingling with rich turkey and a hint of sweetness. The first bite? Pure bliss. The meat was so incredibly tender it practically melted off the bone, infused with a depth of flavor that store-bought rotisserie chicken could only dream of. My family, usually quick to critique my culinary experiments, devoured these wings with gusto. Even my picky eaters were asking for seconds! This recipe has become a regular in our rotation, especially during the cooler months. It’s surprisingly easy to make, mostly hands-off, and the results are consistently spectacular. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both budget-friendly and guaranteed to impress, look no further. Braised turkey wings are about to become your new favorite comfort food.

Ingredients for Delicious Braised Turkey Wings

To create these melt-in-your-mouth braised turkey wings, you’ll need a selection of flavorful ingredients. Here’s a detailed list of everything you’ll need to gather:

• Turkey Wings: 4 large turkey wings (about 3-4 lbs total). Look for bone-in, skin-on turkey wings for maximum flavor and richness. If possible, try to find wings that are relatively meaty and plump.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. This is for searing the turkey wings and vegetables, adding depth of flavor and color. You can substitute with other cooking oils like avocado oil or vegetable oil if needed.
• Yellow Onion: 1 large yellow onion, roughly chopped. Onion forms the aromatic base of the braising liquid, adding sweetness and savory notes.
• Carrots: 2 large carrots, peeled and roughly chopped. Carrots contribute sweetness and earthy flavor to the braise and become wonderfully tender during cooking.
• Celery: 2 stalks of celery, roughly chopped. Celery adds another layer of aromatic complexity and subtle herbaceousness to the braising liquid.
• Garlic: 4 cloves of garlic, minced. Fresh garlic is crucial for adding pungent and savory flavor. Mince it finely so it infuses the braising liquid effectively.
• Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Thyme provides a classic earthy and slightly lemony flavor that pairs beautifully with turkey.
• Dried Rosemary: 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary. Rosemary adds a robust, piney, and aromatic note that complements the thyme and turkey.
• Bay Leaves: 2 bay leaves. Bay leaves infuse a subtle, tea-like aroma and depth of flavor into the braising liquid. Remember to remove them before serving.
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Chicken broth forms the base of the braising liquid and provides moisture for the turkey wings to cook in. Low-sodium allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. You can also use vegetable broth for a slightly lighter flavor.
• Dry White Wine (Optional): 1 cup of dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio). White wine adds acidity and complexity to the braising liquid, enhancing the overall flavor. If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with an additional cup of chicken broth.
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Tomato paste adds richness, umami, and a slightly tangy depth to the braising liquid.
• All-Purpose Flour (Optional, for gravy): 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. This is used to thicken the braising liquid into a delicious gravy at the end of cooking. You can also use cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional, for garnish): Fresh parsley, chopped. Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous garnish and a touch of freshness to the finished dish.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper at each stage of the cooking process to enhance the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfectly Braised Turkey Wings

Follow these detailed instructions to create tender, flavorful braised turkey wings every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Wings

• Pat the turkey wings dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear.
• Season the turkey wings generously on all sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; this is your opportunity to build flavor from the start.

Step 2: Sear the Turkey Wings

• Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Make sure the pot is large enough to comfortably hold all the turkey wings in a single layer.
• Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the turkey wings in the pot, skin-side down first. Avoid overcrowding the pot; you may need to sear in batches to ensure proper browning.
• Sear the turkey wings for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned and golden. Searing creates a flavorful crust and adds depth to the braise.
• Remove the seared turkey wings from the pot and set them aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

• Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium.
• Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and become fragrant. This process releases their natural sugars and flavors.
• Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Deglaze and Build the Braising Liquid

• If using white wine, pour it into the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. This process, called deglazing, adds depth of flavor to the sauce. Allow the wine to simmer for a minute or two to reduce slightly.
• Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the tomato paste and enhance its flavor.
• Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaves. Bring the braising liquid to a simmer.

Step 5: Braise the Turkey Wings

• Return the seared turkey wings to the pot, nestling them into the braising liquid. The liquid should come about halfway up the wings; if needed, add a little more chicken broth to reach this level.
• Bring the liquid back to a gentle simmer.
• Cover the pot tightly with a lid.
• Reduce the heat to low and braise the turkey wings for 2-2.5 hours, or until the meat is incredibly tender and easily pulls away from the bone. Check the wings after 2 hours; they should be fork-tender. Braising time can vary depending on the size of the wings.

Step 6: Make the Gravy (Optional)

• Remove the turkey wings from the pot and set them aside on a plate, loosely tented with foil to keep warm.
• If you want to make a gravy, skim off any excess fat from the surface of the braising liquid in the pot.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour (or cornstarch) with 2-3 tablespoons of the hot braising liquid to create a smooth slurry. This prevents lumps in your gravy.
• Pour the flour slurry into the pot with the braising liquid.
• Increase the heat to medium and simmer the gravy, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency. If the gravy is too thick, add a little more chicken broth to thin it out.
• Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. You might also want to add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Step 7: Serve

• Return the braised turkey wings to the pot with the gravy (or serve the gravy separately).
• Spoon the gravy generously over the turkey wings.
• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts for Braised Turkey Wings (Estimated)

(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients, portion sizes, and cooking methods. This is an approximate guide.)

• Serving Size: 1 Braised Turkey Wing (approximately ¼ of the recipe)
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 550-700 calories

Approximate Breakdown per Serving:

• Protein: 40-50 grams
• Fat: 30-40 grams (depending on skin and fat content)
• Saturated Fat: 8-12 grams (depending on skin and fat content)
• Cholesterol: 200-250 mg
• Sodium: 400-600 mg (depending on broth and seasoning)
• Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
• Fiber: 3-5 grams
• Sugar: 5-8 grams

Important Considerations:

• These are estimates and can vary significantly based on the size of the turkey wings and the specific ingredients used.
• Removing the skin after braising will significantly reduce the fat and calorie content.
• Using low-sodium chicken broth will help reduce the sodium content.
• This recipe provides a good source of protein and some essential nutrients.
• For more accurate nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the specific ingredients and quantities you use.

Preparation Time for Braised Turkey Wings

• Prep Time: 25-30 minutes (chopping vegetables, searing turkey wings, preparing braising liquid)
• Cook Time (Braising): 2-2.5 hours (or until turkey wings are fork-tender)
• Gravy Making (Optional): 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 35 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes

While the total time may seem long, most of it is hands-off braising time. You’ll have plenty of time to prepare side dishes or relax while the turkey wings simmer in the oven or on the stovetop. This recipe is perfect for a weekend meal or a cozy weeknight dinner when you have a little extra time to let the flavors develop.

How to Serve Braised Turkey Wings: Delicious Side Dish Ideas

Braised turkey wings are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to create a complete and satisfying meal:

• Classic Comfort Food Sides:
  • Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The richness of mashed potatoes complements the savory gravy and tender turkey perfectly.
  • Buttery Garlic Bread or Rolls: Perfect for soaking up all that delicious gravy.
  • Stuffing or Dressing: A classic pairing, especially during the holidays. Choose a savory stuffing with herbs and vegetables.
  • Creamy Polenta or Grits: A comforting and flavorful alternative to mashed potatoes.
• Vegetable Sides for Balance:
  • Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts roasted until caramelized bring sweetness and earthy flavors.
  • Green Beans Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans with toasted almonds add a touch of elegance and freshness.
  • Sautéed Spinach or Kale: A simple and healthy side that provides a vibrant green counterpoint to the rich turkey.
  • Cornbread: A slightly sweet cornbread complements the savory braise beautifully.
• Hearty and Satisfying Sides:
  • Mac and Cheese: A crowd-pleasing classic that adds extra comfort to the meal.
  • Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs or aromatics makes a great base for the braised turkey wings and gravy.
  • Quinoa Salad: For a healthier option, a quinoa salad with roasted vegetables or dried cranberries adds texture and nutrients.
  • Creamy Coleslaw: The cool and creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm braised turkey wings.
• Serving Suggestions for Presentation:
  • Platter Presentation: Arrange the braised turkey wings on a large platter, spoon the gravy generously over them, and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme sprigs. Surround the platter with your chosen side dishes.
  • Individual Plates: Serve one or two turkey wings per plate, ladling gravy over them. Arrange side dishes artfully around the wings.
  • Family Style: Place the Dutch oven or serving dish of braised turkey wings in the center of the table along with bowls of side dishes, allowing everyone to serve themselves.

No matter which side dishes you choose, braised turkey wings are a show-stopping main course that’s sure to impress.

Additional Tips for Braising Turkey Wings Like a Pro

To elevate your braised turkey wings from good to exceptional, keep these helpful tips in mind:

1. Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the turkey wings is a crucial step. It creates a Maillard reaction, which develops rich, complex flavors and a beautiful brown crust on the meat. This layer of flavor infuses the braising liquid and ultimately enhances the entire dish. Make sure your pan is hot and the oil is shimmering before adding the wings, and avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper browning.
2. Use Bone-In, Skin-On Wings for Maximum Flavor: Bone-in, skin-on turkey wings are the best choice for braising. The bones release collagen as they cook, which adds richness and body to the braising liquid and keeps the meat moist. The skin renders down and adds flavor and moisture as well. While you can braise skinless wings, you’ll sacrifice some flavor and richness.
3. Braise Low and Slow for Tenderness: The key to perfectly braised turkey wings is low and slow cooking. Braising at a low temperature for a longer period allows the tough connective tissues in the wings to break down, resulting in incredibly tender, fall-off-the-bone meat. Avoid rushing the braising process; patience is key!
4. Taste and Adjust Seasoning Throughout Cooking: Seasoning is crucial at every stage. Season the turkey wings generously before searing, and taste the braising liquid before adding the wings and again during the braising process. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs as needed to ensure the flavors are well-balanced and delicious.
5. Make it Ahead for Easy Entertaining: Braised turkey wings are a fantastic make-ahead dish. They actually taste even better the next day as the flavors have had more time to meld. You can braise the wings a day or two in advance, let them cool in the braising liquid, and then refrigerate them. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven before serving. This makes them perfect for stress-free entertaining.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Braised Turkey Wings

Here are some common questions and answers to help you master braised turkey wings:

Q1: Can I braise turkey wings in a slow cooker?

A: Yes, absolutely! Braising turkey wings in a slow cooker is a fantastic option for hands-off cooking. Sear the turkey wings and sauté the vegetables as instructed in steps 2 and 3. Then, transfer everything to your slow cooker, add the braising liquid, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the wings are fork-tender. Making gravy in a slow cooker can be a bit trickier; you may want to remove some of the braising liquid, thicken it on the stovetop, and then add it back to the slow cooker.

Q2: Can I freeze braised turkey wings?

A: Yes, braised turkey wings freeze beautifully. Let the cooked wings cool completely in the braising liquid. Then, transfer them to freezer-safe containers or bags, along with some of the gravy. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then gently reheat on the stovetop or in the oven until heated through.

Q3: What if my braising liquid reduces too much during cooking?

A: If you notice that your braising liquid is reducing too quickly and becoming too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or water to the pot to maintain the desired level of liquid. You want the wings to be braising in liquid, not steaming dry.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables to the braise?

A: Absolutely! Braised turkey wings are very adaptable. You can add other root vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or turnips to the braise. Mushrooms, potatoes, or even pearl onions would also be delicious additions. Add them along with the carrots and celery for the best results.

Q5: My turkey wings are tough, what did I do wrong?

A: Tough turkey wings usually indicate that they haven’t been braised long enough. Ensure you are braising them for the recommended 2-2.5 hours, or even longer if necessary, until they are truly fork-tender. The meat should easily pull away from the bone. Also, make sure you are braising at a low enough temperature; high heat can toughen the meat. Low and slow is the key to tender braised turkey wings!

Braised turkey wings are a truly rewarding dish to make. They are packed with flavor, incredibly tender, and surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, grab some turkey wings, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the fall-off-the-bone deliciousness of braised turkey wings!

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