Pulled Turkey Recipe – Friendsgiving Food Ideas

Pulled turkey is a flavorful and versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to create a memorable meal. A crunchy, tangy coleslaw is a great choice, offering a refreshing contrast to the savory richness of the turkey with its crisp veggies and zesty dressing. 

For a touch of sweetness, baked beans are a classic pairing, providing a warm and satisfying complement to the seasoned turkey. Soft, buttery cornbread is another must-have; it’s perfect for scooping up the pulled turkey and adds a comforting texture to your plate. 

For those craving extra comfort, creamy macaroni and cheese is a crowd-pleaser, its rich, cheesy flavor balancing out the meatiness of the turkey. These sides not only enhance the pulled turkey but also add color, texture, and variety to your meal, making it truly delicious and satisfying.

What is Pulled Turkey?

Pulled turkey is a dish made from slow-cooked turkey, typically the thigh, which is then shredded into pieces. The slow cooking method breaks down the meat’s fibers, making it incredibly tender. 

Typically, it’s seasoned with spices and often served with a sauce, adding layers of flavor. It’s perfect for sandwiches, salads, or just on its own.

Why This Recipe Works

Why should you try pulled turkey? Here are four compelling reasons:

• Flavorful Seasoning: The rub combines smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic powder, ensuring that every bite bursts with flavor. The spices do a fantastic job of penetrating the meat, creating a taste sensation.
• Tender Texture: Slow cooking turkey thighs leads to a tender texture. This method allows the meat to become melt-in-your-mouth delicious. You just need a fork to shred it.
• Versatile Dish: Pulled turkey can be used in various recipes. You can toss it in a taco, pile it on a sandwich, or serve it with rice. Its adaptability is a huge win for any home cook.
• Healthy Option: Turkey is a lean protein, making pulled turkey a healthier choice than other pulled meats. It’s nourishing and can fit well into many diets. You can enjoy it guilt-free!

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Pulled Turkey

To start this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:

Turkey Rub:

• 4 ½ lbs turkey thigh (2 kg)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon mild paprika
• ¼ – ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt or kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Sauce:

• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 ½ tablespoons Dijon mustard
• ½ cup tomato ketchup
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked honey
• ½ cup packed dark brown sugar

How to Make Pulled Turkey

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey

Rub the Seasoning
Start by patting the turkey thighs dry with paper towels. In a bowl, combine smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, mild paprika, cayenne, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Rub this mixture generously over the turkey, ensuring it’s well coated.

Step 2: Sear the Turkey

Brown the Meat
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil. Once hot, sear the turkey thighs until golden brown on both sides. This step locks in flavors. You’ll want just a few minutes on each side—don’t worry about cooking it all the way through.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Combine Ingredients
In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and sauté until soft. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, ketchup, broth, vinegar, smoked honey, and brown sugar. Bring it to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Turkey

Low and Slow
Transfer the turkey thighs to a slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce over the meat. Set the slow cooker on low and cook for about 6-8 hours. Alternatively, if you don’t have a slow cooker, you can wrap the turkey in foil and bake it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 hours.

Step 5: Shred the Turkey

Time to Shred
Once done, the turkey should shred easily with two forks. Mix the shredded turkey with the sauce left in the slow cooker. This step adds moisture and flavor to the meat.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Dish It Up
Now, it’s time to plate up! Serve your pulled turkey on buns, in tacos, or as a stand-alone meal with your favorite sides.

Tips for Perfect Pulled Turkey

• Use Thighs: Turkey thighs are best for pulling. They have more fat and stay moist during cooking.
• Add More Flavor: Don’t hesitate to add additional spices or herbs to the rub. Thyme or rosemary can add wonderful aromatic notes.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your turkey as cooking times may vary based on size and method. The meat should easily shred when it’s done.
• Make Ahead: Pulled turkey stores beautifully. Make it ahead of time and reheat it for a quick meal later.
• Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to switch up the sauce. Adding chipotle or cayenne can give it a nice kick!

How to Store the Leftovers

Leftover pulled turkey stores well. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—up to three months is best. Just be sure to let it cool completely before putting it in the freezer.

Recommended Side Dishes for Pulled Turkey

Serving pulled turkey with sides can make for an even more enjoyable meal. Here are four side dishes you might consider:

• Creamy Coleslaw: The creamy, crunchy texture of coleslaw makes it an ideal complement. The vinegar also cuts through the richness of the turkey.
• Cornbread Muffins: Sweet, soft cornbread muffins are perfect for soaking up the turkey’s sauce. Each bite is comforting and satisfying.
• Baked Potatoes: Lightly salted baked potatoes can serve as a canvas. Load them with shredded pulled turkey and a dollop of sour cream for a filling dish.
• Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled seasonal veggies adds a healthy crunch and beautiful color to your plate.

Ingredient Substitutes

• Turkey Thighs: Chicken thighs can work beautifully instead of turkey. They’ll yield similar tenderness and flavor.
• Smoked Paprika: If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will suffice, but add a dash of liquid smoke for that smoky flavor.
• Brown Sugar: If brown sugar is unavailable, white sugar mixed with a teaspoon of molasses can give you a similar taste profile.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Soy sauce is a suitable substitute. It can add umami and depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Pulled turkey is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of robust flavors, tender texture, and versatility makes it a must-try. Whether you enjoy it in a sandwich or as part of a hearty meal, you’ll find it hard to resist. 

As a registered dietitian and food blogger, sharing this recipe brings joy, knowing it can make mealtime easier and more delightful.

So, roll up your sleeves now – it’s time to unleash the deliciousness of pulled turkey in your kitchen! 

Whether for a barbecue with friends, a casual family dinner, or a quick weeknight meal, you’ll find this dish to be a rewarding addition to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!

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