Braised Turkey Thighs with Cider Apples and Sage

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever stared at some turkey thighs and thought, "What the heck do I do with these?". My turkey thigh recipes are here to change that.

This dish is pure autumnal comfort. Think sweet apples and savoury sage.

Brief Overview

Braised turkey thighs are a classic comfort dish. It's humble grub that tastes fancy. Originating as a way to make cheaper cuts delicious, it’s proper British.

Medium difficulty, roughly 2 hours 55 minutes. Serves 4 hungry people, or 2 really hungry ones.

Main Benefits

Packed with protein, this dish is satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for a chilly family dinner recipe . What makes it special? It transforms simple ingredients into something truly special.

This recipe is a hug in a bowl.

Getting to Grips with Turkey Thighs

Do you love a hearty, comforting meal? Me too! That's why I'm obsessed with this recipe. Seriously, these braised turkey thighs are a winner.

They are even better than chicken thigh recipes . You can even cook them in a slow cooker!

Let's Talk Flavors

We're using cider and apples here, you know? This brings a touch of sweetness to balance the savory turkey. I actually made a similar turkey thigh recipe with apples once.

I was short on cider and used apple juice instead. It still tasted banging, but the cider adds a special something.

Why Turkey Thighs?

Turkey thighs are often overlooked, aren't they? But they are packed with flavor and super moist when cooked right. Forget dry, boring turkey! This recipe makes them fall off-the-bone delicious.

They are way cheaper than turkey breasts too! This is a great way to make the money stretch.

Grab your apron, it's time to dive into the ingredients.

Ingredients & Equipment for the Ultimate Turkey Thigh Recipes

Right, let's talk shop. To make these braised turkey thigh recipes sing, you'll need some key ingredients and bits of kit.

Nothing too fancy, mind you. We're not trying to win MasterChef here. But a few decent things will make your life easier.

We can do Family Dinner Recipes today and surprise everyone.

Main Ingredients for Autumn Turkey Recipes

Alright, here's what you'll need, measured out proper like:

• Turkey Thighs: 4 bone-in, skin-on (about 700g / 1.5 lbs total). Go for thighs that look plump and have good colour. Avoid any that seem slimy or have a funny smell. You know?
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) . Extra virgin is best, but any olive oil will do in a pinch.
• Onion: 1 large, chopped (around 150g ). Brown or white, it doesn't matter too much.
• Carrots: 2 medium, chopped (around 150g ).
• Celery: 2 stalks, chopped (around 100g ).
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Fresh is always better, honestly.
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) . This helps thicken the sauce.
• Dry Hard Apple Cider: 1 cup (240 ml) . The better the cider, the better the flavour!
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup (240 ml) . Low sodium is a good shout.
• Fresh Sage: 2 sprigs. Smells amazing, doesn't it?
• Bay Leaf: 1.
• Cooking Apples: 2 medium (like Braeburn or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and sliced (around 300g ).
• Butter: 1 tablespoon (15g) . Unsalted, please.
• Brown Sugar: 1 tablespoon (15g) . Light or dark, your call.
• Lemon Juice: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) .

If you're looking for alternatives check Chicken Dinner Recipes or Chicken Thigh Recipes may come handy.

Seasoning Notes: Making it Shine

For the perfect Easy Turkey Thigh Dinner it is all about the flavour.

• Salt and Pepper: Don't be shy! Season generously.
• Essential Spice Combo: Sage + cider = autumnal bliss. Trust me.
• Flavour Enhancers: Garlic and bay leaf add a subtle, savoury depth.
• Quick Substitution: No cider? Apple juice works, but reduce the brown sugar a bit.

Equipment Needed for Turkey Thigh Casserole Recipe

Right, here's what you'll need in the kitchen:

• Dutch Oven or Oven Safe Pot with a Lid: This is crucial for braising. Slow cooker works if you're doing slow cooker turkey thigh recipes.
• Cutting Board and Chef's Knife: For chopping those veggies.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key.
• Tongs: For searing the turkey thighs.

No Dutch oven? A large, heavy bottomed pot with a tight fitting lid will do.

So, that's it! Gather your ingredients and equipment, and let's get cooking. I reckon with these ingredients you'll make a banging One-pan turkey thigh recipe . Stay tuned for the full recipe!

Cooking Method: Braising Turkey Thighs for Ultimate Flavour

Right then, let's talk about braising! Honestly, it's one of my fave ways to cook tougher cuts of meat, and trust me, it works wonders with turkey thigh recipes .

It's like a magic trick for turning something a bit meh into a proper gourmet meal. So, if you're looking for family dinner recipes or even fancier autumn turkey recipes , braising is your best bet.

Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place is Key

First things first, get everything prepped. It's the secret to a stress free braise, I swear. Chop your veg onion, carrots, celery, the whole shebang.

Mince your garlic. Measure out your liquids. This is what the posh chefs call "mise en place." For safety, keep raw turkey away from everything else.

It really does make all the difference when you start getting busy.

step-by-step to Braised Perfection

1. Sear those thighs! Season the turkey thighs with salt and pepper. Get them nice and brown in the olive oil. This locks in flavour.
2. Sauté the veggies. Onion, carrots, and celery go in next. Cook them till they're soft. Add your minced garlic last.
3. Deglaze and thicken. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1 minute . Then, whisk in the cider and broth. Get all those yummy bits off the bottom.
4. Braise time. Pop the turkey back in. Add sage and bay leaf. Simmer. Then cover and either bake at 325° F ( 160° C) or braise on the stove for 2-2. 5 hours.
5. Apples! While the turkey braises, sauté the apples with butter and brown sugar until soft. Stir in lemon juice.
6. Combine and serve. Remove the turkey and skim any fat from the sauce. Stir in the apples, return the turkey and heat through. Spoon over and serve!

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Braise

Want to avoid any common mistakes? Sear the turkey in batches if the pot's crowded. Trust me, it browns better that way.

And always use a decent hard cider. I found that using cider gives it a nice twist from the usual chicken thigh recipes or chicken dinner recipes , The flavour really shines through.

For an extra cosy spin, this can also be an amazing dish if prepared as a turkey thigh casserole recipe .

Remember, low and slow is the name of the game. I even tried making slow cooker turkey thigh recipes but I prefer this method more.

The long braising time makes the turkey super tender. Honestly, this easy turkey thigh dinner could become your new favourite.

And if you don't want to serve a million plates, I can assure you that a one-pan turkey thigh recipe will not leave you regretful.

So there you have it. It's not hard at all. This recipe transforms economical turkey thighs into a deeply flavourful and tender dish, perfect for a cosy autumn evening.

Recipe Notes for Top-Notch Turkey Thigh Recipes

Alright, so you're ready to tackle these braised turkey thighs with cider apples and sage ? Good on ya! These notes will help you ace it.

Honestly, even the best of us can use a little extra guidance.

Showstopping Presentation: Serving Suggestions

Plating is key, innit? A generous spoonful of that gorgeous, cider infused sauce over the turkey thigh recipes looks proper fancy.

Think about serving it on a bed of mashed potatoes. Or maybe some roasted root veggies for a pop of colour.

I reckon a good sourdough would be perfect for mopping up all that lovely gravy. Don't forget a crisp, dry white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, to wash it all down.

Keeping it Fresh: Storage Tips

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Let the turkey cool down completely before popping it in the fridge. Use an airtight container.

It'll keep for up to three days. If you're thinking long term, freezing is your friend. Portion it out, wrap it well, and it’ll be good for up to three months.

To reheat, just thaw it overnight and warm it gently in a pan or oven.

Shake it Up: Variations

Want to mix things up? Why not try swapping the apples for pears? Adds a whole new level of sweetness.

For a gluten-free version, ditch the flour. The sauce will be a bit thinner, but still delicious. Speaking of delicious, Chicken thigh recipes work amazingly well with this same recipe.

You'll get all that delicious autumn flavor in one easy dish. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the braising liquid for some heat.

Now we are making Family Dinner Recipes with this recipe.

Food Facts: Nutrition Basics

Okay, let's talk numbers. One serving clocks in at around 450 calories. You're getting a good dose of protein - about 40 grams per serving - which is awesome for keeping you full and satisfied.

This is a great Easy turkey thigh dinner to make. Turkey is also a lean protein source. It is packed with essential nutrients.

Of course, these numbers are just estimates. But, you know, good food, good mood!

So, there you have it! All the insider tips to make these turkey thigh recipes an absolute triumph. Don't be afraid to experiment and have a bit of fun in the kitchen.

You got this. I'm already excited for you. Make sure it's banging !