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Turkey-It’s What’s For Dinner…
Wild turkey is a popular game bird that many hunters enjoy pursuing. When it comes to preparing a wild turkey for cooking, there are a few steps to follow to ensure that the meat is safe to eat and tastes great. In this article, we will discuss how to best clean a wild turkey for cooking and provide two delicious wild game recipes for wild turkey.
Cleaning a Wild Turkey
The first step in preparing a wild turkey for cooking is to properly clean it. Here is a step-by-step guide to cleaning a wild turkey:
- Begin by plucking the feathers off the bird. It is best to do this as soon as possible after the bird has been harvested, while the feathers are still warm and easy to remove.
- Cut off the head and feet of the turkey with a sharp knife.
- Make a small incision at the base of the breastbone and carefully cut around the anus, being careful not to puncture the intestines.
- Remove the entrails: Reach into the body cavity and carefully remove the entrails, including the heart, liver, and lungs. Be sure to remove all the organs and any bits of fat or tissue.
- Rinse the bird thoroughly with cold water, both inside and out, to remove any remaining blood or tissue.
- Pat the bird dry with paper towels or a clean cloth.
Wild Turkey Recipes
Once the turkey has been properly cleaned, it is time to cook it. Here are two delicious wild game recipes for wild turkey:
Turkey Breast with Cranberry Glaze
Ingredients:
- 2 wild turkey breasts
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together cranberry juice, honey, and Dijon mustard.
- Season the turkey breasts with salt and pepper and place in a baking dish.
- Pour the cranberry glaze over the turkey breasts.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Wild Turkey Chili
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground wild turkey
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
- In a large pot, brown the ground wild turkey over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
- Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 30 minutes or until the chili has thickened.
- Serve hot and top with shredded cheddar cheese.