Turkey gizzards are an underrated and often overlooked part of the bird that can make for a delicious meal when cooked properly. If you’ve wondered how to make tasty turkey gizzards, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What are Turkey Gizzards?
Let’s start with an overview of what turkey gizzards are. The gizzard is a muscular part of the turkey’s stomach that helps grind up food. Since gizzards constantly contract to pulverize food they contain dense, tough muscle fibers. When cooked right these muscles become tender and take on seasoning flavors beautifully. Undercooked gizzards will remain extremely chewy and tough. The key is low and slow cooking to break down the tough fibers.
Buying and Prepping Turkey Gizzards
Turkey gizzards are available year-round, often sold fresh or frozen in 1-2 lb packages. They are more abundant around holidays when whole turkeys are processed.
Look for gizzards that are smooth, firm, and free of blemishes. Rinse them well under cold water before cooking You may need to trim veins or connective tissue, but mostly just scrub them clean
Thaw frozen gizzards overnight in the fridge before cooking. Once thawed, pat them completely dry with paper towels so they’ll sear and cook properly.
Seasoning Suggestions
When seasoning turkey gizzards, feel free to get creative! Here are some classic flavor pairings that work very well:
- Garlic, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, thyme
- Rosemary, sage, oregano, red pepper flakes
- Cajun seasoning, cayenne, smoked paprika
- Lemon pepper, garlic, parsley
- Soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic
Generously season the gizzards to infuse them with flavor. Use your favorite spices or create your own blends.
Cooking Methods for Tender Gizzards
Here are some of the most popular and effective cooking methods for melt-in-your-mouth tender gizzards:
Braising/Stewing
Low and slow braised gizzards are irresistibly tender. Brown the seasoned gizzards first in batches to develop fond. Then simmer in broth or water with aromatics for at least 2-3 hours until extremely tender.
Baking
Baking is an easy hands-off method. Place seasoned gizzards in a baking dish with a small amount of broth or water. Cover tightly with foil and bake at 300°F for 2-3 hours.
Pressure Cooking
A pressure cooker significantly shortens the cooking time. Cook seasoned gizzards for 20-30 minutes under pressure, then allow the pressure to release naturally for best results.
Deep Frying
For quick crispy gizzards, cut them into bite-size pieces and deep fry at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until browned and crispy. Make sure the oil is hot before adding them.
Slow Cooker
Add gizzards to a slow cooker with seasoning and broth. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. The long cooking makes them perfectly tender.
No matter the cooking method, use lower heat for an extended time. This gives the tough muscle fibers time to break down completely, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Serving Suggestions
Once you’ve mastered tender and tasty turkey gizzards, get creative with serving ideas:
- Over steamed rice or mashed potatoes
- In gravy or sauce over pasta
- Mixed into stuffing or dressing
- Chopped and added to soup or stew
- Tacos with crispy fried gizzards
- Slider sandwiches with gizzard patties
- Gizzard skewers as an appetizer
- Gizzards and greens salad
Incorporate gizzards into favorite recipes in place of other meats. Their rich, earthy flavor pairs well with creamy, starchy sides and gravies.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Store leftover cooked gizzards in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave, stir fry, or gravy. For longer storage, cooked gizzards can be frozen for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using. Reheating from frozen may require extra moisture like broth or sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re new to cooking turkey gizzards, you probably have some questions. Here are answers to some of the most common ones:
Are turkey gizzards healthy?
Turkey gizzards are low in fat and calories while providing protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Enjoy them as part of a balanced diet in moderation.
Do I need to pound or tenderize the gizzards?
Tenderizing methods like pounding or scoring can help, but the most important factor is the long, slow cooking time to break down the tough muscle.
Can I use an Instant Pot to make tender gizzards?
Yes! The pressure cooking function of the Instant Pot works great. Cook for 20-30 minutes then allow pressure to release naturally.
What’s the best way to bread and fry gizzards?
For crispy breaded gizzards, dip bite-sized pieces in flour, then egg wash, then seasoned breadcrumbs before frying at 350°F.
Should gizzards be cooked with the heart and liver?
You can cook gizzards with other turkey organs like the heart and liver if desired. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Satisfying and Nutritious Turkey Gizzards
Follow this guide and you’ll see how surprisingly easy and rewarding cooking turkey gizzards can be. Don’t be intimidated by this underused cut. With proper prep and cooking methods, you can enjoy affordable, tasty gizzards loaded with nutrition. Give turkey gizzards a try and impress your family and friends with new delicious recipes!
100% Pastured Organic-Fed Turkey
Turkey Gizzard Stew is my favorite way to use these gizzards. Put two pounds in a stew pot and cover with water. Add half an onion and two stalks of celery. Bring to a boil and then cover and simmer for an hour and 30 minutes. I taste to check for tenderness and salt. If needed I add salt. When almost tender I add more onions and celery and cook for another 20 minutes. I make a big pot and on the second day I add a small package of cauliflower rice just to change up the taste. My husband likes to use any left overs to fry with onions and peppers.