turkey drumstick

Turkey Drumstick

Turkey drumsticks are a dark meat poultry cut, offering a rich and savory flavor profile. Featuring a slightly gamey taste compared to turkey breast, the meat is known for its succulent and tender texture when cooked properly. These bone-in pieces showcase a reddish-brown hue, and are encased in skin that crisps beautifully during roasting, grilling, or braising. Turkey drumsticks are a budget-friendly and flavorful alternative to other turkey parts, perfect for hearty meals and holiday gatherings. They are a popular choice for those seeking a satisfying and comforting dining experience.

Common Uses

  • Roasting: Slow-roasted turkey drumsticks create a fall-off-the-bone tender meal with crispy skin. Season generously with herbs and spices for enhanced flavor.
  • Braising: Braising turkey drumsticks in flavorful liquids, such as stock, wine, or tomato sauce, produces incredibly moist and tender meat that easily shreds.
  • Grilling: Grilled turkey drumsticks offer a smoky and charred flavor. Marinate beforehand to tenderize the meat and add depth of flavor.
  • Soups and Stews: Add turkey drumsticks to soups and stews for a rich, meaty flavor and added protein. The meat can be shredded and incorporated back into the dish.
  • Smoked Turkey: Smoked turkey drumsticks provide a distinct smokey flavour which can be eaten alone or added to other dishes like turkey salad or turkey sandwiches.
  • Ground turkey: Ground turkey drumstick meat can be used as a substitute for ground beef in burgers, meatballs, sauces, and other dishes

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

225.0kcal (11.25%)

Protein

32.1g (64.2%)

Carbs

0.0g

Sugars

0.0g

Healthy Fat

5.8g

Unhealthy Fat

2.6g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
  • Rich in B vitamins like niacin and B6, supporting energy metabolism and nerve function.
  • Provides minerals like selenium, crucial for thyroid function and antioxidant defense.
  • Contains zinc, contributing to immune system health and wound healing.
  • Lower in fat than some other poultry options, making it a heart-healthy choice.
  • A good source of phosphorus, important for bone health and energy production.

Storage Tips

Fresh turkey drumsticks should be refrigerated immediately after purchase, ideally at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). Use or freeze within 1-2 days for optimal quality. For longer storage, wrap tightly in freezer wrap or place in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 9 months. When thawing, do so in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.

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