Roasted Turkey Legs

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Indulge in the succulent symphony of flavors that is our Roasted Turkey Legs in a mouthwatering marinade. This dish is a testament to the art of culinary alchemy, where tender turkey legs meet a harmonious blend of herbs, spices, and savory goodness. The result? A masterpiece of taste and tenderness that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. Whether it’s a festive holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, these turkey legs are bound to steal the spotlight. Join us on a culinary journey as we delve into the secrets of the perfect marinade that transforms these legs into tender, flavorful morsels of perfection. Get ready to elevate your roast game to a whole new level with this delectable recipe.

INGREDIENTS NEEDED to make it:

These meticulously selected ingredients work in concert to create a marinade that elevates the turkey legs to a level of exquisite flavor and tenderness. Each component brings its unique qualities, resulting in a symphony of tastes that promise a truly memorable dining experience.

Turkey Leg Pieces (6 Drumsticks and Thighs):

• These turkey leg pieces are the star of the dish, providing a hearty, flavorful base. The drumsticks are known for their juicy, dark meat, while the thighs offer an even richer and tender texture.

Marinade Ingredients:

Olive Oil (1/2 Cup):

• Olive oil, a cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine, adds a luscious, fruity richness to the marinade. Its natural fats help coat and flavor the turkey pieces, while also aiding in browning during roasting.

Soy Sauce (1/4 Cup):

• Soy sauce contributes a delightful umami depth to the marinade. Its fermented soybean base infuses the turkey with savory, complex flavors, enhancing the overall taste.

Honey (1/4 Cup):

• This golden nectar provides a touch of natural sweetness that balances the savory and salty notes from the soy sauce and adds a glossy finish to the roasted turkey legs.

Dijon Mustard (3 Tablespoons):

• Dijon mustard introduces a piquant, tangy kick that cuts through the richness of the turkey and other ingredients. Its complex flavors enhance the overall taste profile.

Garlic (4 Cloves, Minced):

• Minced garlic cloves infuse the marinade with their pungent, aromatic essence. They bring a robust, earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Lemon Juice (2 Tablespoons):

• Fresh lemon juice provides a zesty, citrusy brightness that lifts the flavors of the marinade. Its acidic notes help tenderize the meat and add a refreshing touch.

Dried Thyme and Rosemary (2 Teaspoons each):

• Dried thyme contributes a warm, earthy aroma and flavor to the marinade. Its herbaceous notes harmonize with the other spices and herbs, creating a well-rounded taste. Dried rosemary offers a distinctive, pine-like fragrance and a slightly woody, resinous flavor. It imparts a robust, aromatic depth to the marinade.

Salt and Pepper (To Taste):

• Salt enhances the natural flavors of the turkey and balances the overall taste, while freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle hint of heat and a pleasant, aromatic bite.

HOW DO YOU PREPARE TURKEY LEGS?

In this recipe, I had an extra whole turkey from Thanksgiving. Our family is not particularly a fan of baking a whole turkey. Making sure the legs and thighs don’t overbake by the time the breast is done is difficult So to make things easier and edible I chopped up the bird into pieces using only the legs, wings, and thighs.

Combine all the ingredients in the marinade place the turkey parts and the marinade in a zip-lock bag and refrigerate for at least 3 hours but overnight would be better.

Once marinated line a 9 x 13 baking dish with aluminum foil (for easy cleanup) and arrange all the turkey parts in the pan.

Covered it with foil and baked it at 350 degrees for one hour. For the last 20 minutes, remove the foil to allow the turkey skin to get crispy.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO Roast TURKEY LEGS IN THE OVEN?

Baking turkey legs in the oven typically takes around 1.0 to 1.5 hours at 350°F (175°C). However, the exact cooking time can vary depending on several factors:

1. Size of the Turkey Legs: Larger turkey legs will naturally take longer to cook than smaller ones.
2. Preparation: If the turkey legs are marinated or brined, they might cook slightly faster due to the additional moisture.
3. Bone-In vs. Boneless: Bone-in turkey legs generally take longer to cook than boneless ones.
4. Oven Accuracy: Oven temperatures can vary. It’s a good practice to use an oven thermometer to ensure the accuracy of your oven.
5. Cooking Style: Some recipes might call for a higher initial temperature to sear the meat, followed by reducing the heat for the remainder of the cooking time.

Always ensure that the internal temperature of the turkey reaches at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s cooked safely. This can be checked using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat, without touching the bone.

For best results, consider using a roasting pan with a rack to allow for even air circulation around the turkey legs. Additionally, periodically basting the turkey legs with any accumulated juices or marinade can help keep them moist and flavorful.

What do you serve with roasted turkey legs?

Roasted turkey legs pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement their rich, savory flavor. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a classic choice that goes beautifully with roasted turkey legs. They soak up the flavorful juices and provide a comforting contrast.
2. Stuffing or Dressing: Whether it’s traditional bread stuffing or a rice-based dressing, this side dish adds a hearty element to the meal.
3. Cranberry Sauce: The sweet and tart flavors of cranberry sauce provide a delightful contrast to the savory turkey. It’s a classic holiday pairing.
4. Gravy: A well-made gravy, especially one from the pan drippings, adds richness and extra flavor to both the turkey and side dishes.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Consider roasting vegetables like carrots, Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts, or sweet potatoes alongside the turkey for a flavorful and nutritious accompaniment.
6. Green Beans: Steamed or roasted green beans provide a fresh and crunchy contrast to the hearty turkey legs.
7. Salad: A crisp salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing element to balance the meal.
8. Candied Yams or Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of yams or Sweet Potato Casserole complements the savory turkey. Top with marshmallows or a brown sugar glaze for an extra treat.
9. Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash provides a creamy, flavorful side dish.
10. Corn Casserole: A moist and crumbly Famous Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole is a classic Southern side that pairs well with roasted turkey legs.
11. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food that complements the turkey’s rich flavor.

Remember, the best side dishes are ones that you and your guests enjoy, so feel free to mix and match to create a meal that suits your tastes and preferences.

HOW TO STORE AND REHEAT LEFTOVERS?

Storing and reheating leftover roasted turkey legs is a simple process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure they remain delicious:

STORING LEFTOVERS:

1. Cool Down Properly: Allow the leftover turkey legs to cool down to room temperature within two hours of cooking.
2. Separate the Meat from the Bones: If possible, remove the meat from the bones. This will help the meat cool more quickly and evenly.
3. Wrap or Store Airtight: Place the turkey meat in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you’re storing the entire leg, make sure it’s covered well.
4. Refrigerate: Store the leftovers in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. They can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.

REHEATING LEFTOVERS:

1. Oven Method:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
   • Place the turkey in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to prevent drying, and reheat for about 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through.
2. Microwave Method (for individual portions):
   • Place a single portion of turkey on a microwave-safe plate.
   • Microwave on medium heat in 30-second intervals, flipping the meat occasionally, until heated to your liking.
3. Stovetop Method:
   • For a moist reheat, consider using a covered skillet over low heat. Add a small amount of broth or gravy to prevent drying.
4. Check the Temperature: Regardless of the method used, ensure that the internal temperature of the turkey reaches at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once reheated, serve the turkey legs with your preferred side dishes and enjoy!

By following these steps, you can store and reheat your leftover roasted turkey legs, ensuring they remain flavorful, tender, and safe to eat.

HOW TO FREEZE AND THAW LEFTOVER ROASTED TURKEY LEGS?

Freezing and thawing leftover roasted turkey legs can help you preserve them for future meals. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Freezing Leftover Roasted Turkey Legs:

1. Cool Down Properly: Allow the leftover turkey legs to cool down to room temperature.
2. Wrap or Package Well: If the turkey meat is still on the bone, wrap each leg individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If the meat has been removed from the bone, you can wrap portions together.
3. Double Wrap (Optional): For added protection against freezer burn, consider placing the wrapped turkey legs in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container.
4. Label and Date: Write the current date on the packaging. This helps you keep track of how long the turkey legs have been in the freezer.
5. Freeze Quickly: Place the wrapped turkey legs in the coldest part of your freezer, ensuring they freeze as quickly as possible.

Thawing Frozen Roasted Turkey Legs:

1. Refrigerator Thawing (Recommended):
   • Place the frozen turkey legs in the refrigerator on a tray or in a shallow dish to catch any drips.
   • Allow them to thaw in the refrigerator. This process may take about 24 hours for every 2.3 kg (5 lbs) of turkey.
2. Cold Water Thawing (Faster Option):
   • If you need to thaw them more quickly, place the frozen turkey legs in a tightly sealed plastic bag.
   • Submerge the bag in a large bowl or sink filled with cold water.
   • Change the water every 30 minutes to maintain a safe temperature.
   • This method will take approximately 30 minutes per pound of turkey.
3. Microwave (for Small Portions):
   • If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave to defrost smaller portions. Use the “defrost” setting and follow the microwave’s instructions for your specific model.

Remember, once thawed, it’s best to use the turkey legs within 1-2 days to ensure they maintain their quality. Always check the internal temperature of the meat to ensure it reaches a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming.