Ever smelled slow-cooked, smoky food and felt warm and nostalgic? Smoked turkey necks are like the heart of a cozy meal. They bring joy to our tables, thanks to family recipes or Southern soul food.
Want to make that feeling at home? Smoked turkey neck recipes are tasty and tender. They’re great for bringing people together. Serving them is like sharing a piece of tradition and flavor.
They cook in about two hours, reaching 165°F for safety. You can braise, slow cook, or use a pressure cooker. Adding these recipes to your cooking list will make you a pro.
Pair them with sides like stewed collard greens or mashed potatoes. These recipes are perfect for a soulful feast.
Introduction to Smoked Turkey Necks
Welcome to the world of smoked turkey necks! These cuts are loved in Southern cooking, like soul food and Creole dishes. Learning to smoke turkey necks is a treat. It makes the meat taste better and keeps it full of good stuff like protein and iron.
First, pick the right turkey necks. They should be 1-2 pounds each. Rinse them and remove fat and cartilage. This makes the dish tasty and nice to look at.
Brining is key to add flavor. Here’s a brine recipe:
- 1 gallon of water
- 1 cup of salt
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 1 medium onion
- 1 sprig of thyme
Brine the meat well. Then, choose your smoker’s temperature. For tender meat, use 225°F – 250°F. For a crispy outside, try 275°F – 300°F. Smoking takes hours, depending on the wood and method.
Make sure the meat hits 165°F. This makes it safe and super tender. It’s no wonder smoked turkey necks are so popular.
| Nutritional Content per Serving | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Phosphorus | 200mg |
| Potassium | 400mg |
Smoke turkey necks for 2 hours for the best tenderness. Boiling takes 2 to 2.5 hours at 325°F. You can find them at ethnic stores, butchers, or supermarkets. Smoked turkey necks can make your cooking amazing.
Ready to start? Learn how to smoke turkey necks and improve your cooking.
The Benefits of Cooking with Turkey Necks
Turkey necks are great for making tasty, filling meals. They are also budget-friendly for your family.
Turkey necks taste amazing. They are like oxtails, which many people love. This makes them fun to cook and a good choice for saving money.
You can find turkey necks all year. They’re perfect for making smoked turkey neck soup or smoked turkey neck slow cooker recipes. They’re always there when you need them.
Turkey necks are full of good stuff. They have lots of protein for muscles and energy. They also have collagen for healthy skin and joints. Plus, they have important minerals like iron and zinc.
Here’s a look at what turkey necks offer:
| Component | Turkey Necks |
|---|---|
| Calories | 398 per 4-ounce serving |
| Fat | 18g per serving |
| Cholesterol | 348mg per serving |
| Sodium | 726mg per serving |
| Protein | 50g per serving |
| Vitamin A | 105% of daily recommended value |
| Calcium | 10% of daily recommended value |
| Iron | 15% of daily recommended value |
Cooking turkey necks on the stovetop or in a slow cooker is a treat. They are a budget-friendly option that adds flavor and nutrition to your meals.
How to Prep Smoked Turkey Necks
Getting ready to smoke turkey necks is key for a tasty and soft dish. You can pick from fresh, frozen, or pre-smoked turkey necks. Fresh ones have over 100 grams of protein per serving, making them healthy.
Marinating is important for great flavor. Let the turkey necks marinate for 2-3 hours. But, marinating overnight makes the flavor even better. Mix spices and herbs to make a tasty marinade.
Smoke the turkey necks at 225°F (107°C). Smoke them for 2-3 hours or until they hit 165°F (74°C). This makes the meat safe and tender.
You’ll need a sharp knife, a big Dutch oven, and a thermometer. The marinating effort makes every bite rich in flavor.
It’s also important to store smoked turkey necks right. Keep them in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for 3 months. This way, you can enjoy their smoky taste later.
Stove-Top Method for Smoked Turkey Necks
Cooking smoked turkey necks on the stove is tasty and tender. You need fresh turkey necks, seasonings, and a big pot. This ensures even cooking.
Stovetop simmering takes about 2 hours for tender meat. Here’s how to do it:
- Preparation: Rinse the turkey necks and pat them dry. Mix them with seasonings in a big bowl. Marinate for 30 minutes or overnight for more flavor.
- Start Cooking: Heat a big pot over medium-high. Add the turkey necks and sear them until browned.
- Add Liquid: Pour water or broth to cover the turkey necks. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and cover.
- Simmer: Simmer for about 2 hours. Check often to keep them covered and adjust liquid as needed.
- Check for Doneness: After 2 hours, the meat should be tender. If not, simmer for another 15-30 minutes.
Keep the heat steady for tender and flavorful meat. If it’s not tender, cook a bit longer but don’t overcook.
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Underseasoned Meat | Adjust seasoning during simmering. Add thyme and garlic for more flavor. |
| Meat Not Tender | Cook longer by 15-30 minutes. Keep the heat steady and liquid level consistent. |
| Meat Drying Out | Make sure turkey necks stay in liquid. Add more broth or water if needed. |
Smoked Turkey Neck Soup Recipe
Try a nourishing smoked turkey neck soup recipe. It’s full of flavors and easy to make. It’s great for a family of six.
This soup is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Start with soaked black-eyed peas to save time. It’s simple to make, even for beginners.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups dried black-eyed peas (soaked overnight)
- 5 cups vegetable stock
- 1 lb smoked turkey necks, wings, or backs
- 4-5 slices smoked bacon
- 6 garlic cloves
- 2 diced medium celery stalks
- 1 diced red bell pepper
- 2 cups whole cherry tomatoes
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons smoked sweet paprika
- 3 teaspoons kosher salt
- 3 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
Now, let’s make the soup:
- Cook the bacon until crispy. Then, set it aside.
- Add the turkey necks and cook until browned.
- Pour in the vegetable stock and add the peas, garlic, and more. Don’t forget the spices.
- Let it boil, then simmer for 2 hours. This makes the turkey and peas tender.
- Take out the bay leaves before you serve.
This soup is not just tasty. It also gives you energy. Here’s what it has in it:
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 698 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 111 g |
| Protein | 52 g |
| Total Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 87 mg |
| Sodium | 1970 mg |
| Potassium | 2312 mg |
| Fiber | 21 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
| Vitamin A | 3094 IU |
| Vitamin C | 56 mg |
| Calcium | 256 mg |
| Iron | 16 mg |
This smoked turkey neck soup is amazing. It’s full of flavor and nutrients. It’s a comforting dish you’ll love.
Smoked Turkey Necks in a Slow Cooker
Cooking smoked turkey necks in a slow cooker makes them tender and flavorful. It’s a great way to cook because it slowly mixes the flavors. This makes the meat soft and tasty.
Here’s a list of ingredients for a tasty smoked turkey neck slow cooker recipe:
- 2 lbs smoked turkey necks
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by marinating the turkey necks with thyme, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper for 3 hours. Marinating overnight makes them even tastier.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the turkey necks. Then, put them in the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, cook garlic, celery, and onion until soft. Add them to the slow cooker.
- Put chicken broth over the turkey necks. Make sure they’re covered. Add Worcestershire sauce for more flavor.
- Set the slow cooker to low heat. Cook for 6 to 8 hours. This makes the meat tender and the flavors mix well.
Why Choose a Slow Cooker? It makes the meat tender and absorbs all the spices. It’s also easy to use because you can just set it and forget it.
Serving Suggestions:
Smoked turkey necks go well with many dishes. Some Southern favorites include:
- Mashed potatoes
- Collard greens
- Black-eyed peas
- Cornbread
- Rice
- Roasted vegetables
Serving this recipe with these sides makes a complete meal. It’s not only delicious but also satisfying.
Delicious Smoked Turkey Neck Appetizers
Making tasty smoked turkey neck appetizers can make any party better. The smoky smell and tender meat are a treat. For many, these appetizers are a chance to try something new and tasty.
To make these appetizers, you need to smoke the turkey necks right. Here’s what to do:
- Time: Smoke for about 1 hour until it’s 165°F inside.
- Rest: Let it rest for 15-20 minutes after smoking for juiciness.
- Wood Choice: Use Applewood for a mild, sweet flavor that goes well with turkey necks.
There are many ways to serve smoked turkey neck appetizers. Here are two great recipes:
1. Smoked Turkey Neck Crostini
- Ingredients: Smoked turkey neck slices, toasted baguette slices, cream cheese, fresh herbs.
- Preparation: Spread cream cheese on toasted baguette, add smoked turkey, and top with herbs.
2. Smoked Turkey Neck Tacos
- Ingredients: Shredded smoked turkey neck, soft corn tortillas, avocado, cilantro, lime.
- Preparation: Fill tortillas with turkey, add avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Here’s a look at different ways to serve these appetizers:
| Serving Style | Flavor Profile | Best Occasions |
|---|---|---|
| Crostini | Rich, creamy, herbaceous | Appetizers, Parties |
| Tacos | Fresh, tangy, savory | Lunches, Casual Gatherings |
The simple ingredients and rich flavors make these appetizers a hit. Try these recipes and your guests will love them.
Seasoning Ideas for Smoked Turkey Necks
Choosing the right seasoning is key for great smoked turkey necks. Here are some ideas to make your dish taste amazing.
Try the Classic Herb Seasoning for a tasty choice. It has thyme and rosemary. These herbs make the turkey necks smell great and taste earthy.
For a spicy kick, go for the Spicy Cajun Style seasoning. It’s full of hot spices. This mix turns your turkey necks into a spicy dish perfect for parties or family meals.
The Asian-Inspired Marinades are another great pick. They use soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil. These flavors give your turkey necks a deep, savory taste that feels like a trip to Asia.
| Seasoning Type | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Herb Seasoning | Thyme, rosemary | Earthy, aromatic |
| Spicy Cajun Style | Cajun spices | Fiery, robust |
| Asian-Inspired Marinades | Soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil | Rich, umami |
Best Sides to Serve with Smoked Turkey Necks
Choosing the right sides for smoked turkey necks makes the meal better. Here are some great options:
Mashed potatoes go well with smoked turkey necks. They are creamy and make everyone happy.
Steamed vegetables are a good choice for a light meal. Broccoli or carrots add freshness to the dish.
Rice and beans are a filling and tasty option. They match the smoky taste of turkey necks well. You can add spices to make it your own.
| Side Dish | Cooking Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | 30 mins | 8 servings |
| Steamed Vegetables | 15 mins | 8 servings |
| Rice and Beans | 10 hours | 8 servings |
These sides make your meal complete and tasty. You can choose creamy mashed potatoes, fresh steamed veggies, or hearty rice and beans. Each option adds something special to your dish.
Tips for Smoking Your Own Turkey Necks
Smoking turkey necks can be very rewarding. Knowing the basics is key to getting great results. Start with a turkey that’s 12-14 pounds. This size is good for about 10 people.
Make sure to brine your turkey necks first. This makes them taste better and stay moist. Brine them for 12-24 hours. Your spice rub should have:
- ½ cup kosher salt
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons black peppercorns
- 2 tablespoons dried rosemary
- 2 tablespoons dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Season your turkey necks well before smoking. Smoke them at 225°F. It takes about 30 minutes per pound to cook. Make sure they reach 165°F inside.
Here’s a quick overview:
| Step | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Smoking Temperature | 225°F |
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes per pound |
| Safe Internal Temperature | 165°F |
| Brining Duration | 12-24 hours |
| Prep Time | 30 minutes |
| Estimated Cooking Time | 4 hours |
Using simple ingredients is a big trend in cooking. It’s very popular in Southern kitchens. Learning to smoke turkey necks can make delicious meals that connect us to our heritage.
Smoked Turkey Neck Recipes: Flavorful & Tender
Smoked turkey neck recipes are a big hit in Southern cooking. They mix old flavors with a smoky smell. Whether you’re new or experienced, knowing why this recipe stands out can change your cooking.
Why this recipe stands out is clear. It uses black-eyed peas, smoked turkey necks, and chicken broth. Soaking black-eyed peas overnight cuts their cooking time in half. This makes your meal quicker and tastier.
Here’s a complete ingredients list for the perfect smoked turkey neck recipe:
- 2 smoked turkey necks
- 1 lb black-eyed peas (soaked overnight)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: hot sauce
The detailed cooking steps are simple and designed to bring out the best:
- Rinse the soaked black-eyed peas, then add them to a large pot with the chicken broth.
- Add the smoked turkey necks, chopped onion, minced garlic, and bay leaves to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, or until the peas are tender.
- Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed and consider adding hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Remove the turkey necks from the pot, allow them to cool slightly, then shred the meat and return it to the pot.
- Serve hot, ideally with a side of collard greens and cornbread to complete the Southern culinary experience.
Black-eyed peas in this recipe are packed with protein and fiber. They make the dish both tasty and healthy. This combo is known as the “New Year’s Trinity” in Southern cooking, symbolizing hope and good luck.
For those who want to smoke their turkey necks, timing and temperature are key. The USDA says to keep it between 40°F – 140°F. Smoke for 20-25 minutes per pound at 250°F, until it reaches 165°F. This makes the turkey necks tender and juicy.
Seasoning is also important. Classic seasoning with paprika is good for traditionalists. For a spicier taste, try a Buffalo Rub. For an earthier flavor, a Coffee Rub is great.
In summary, smoked turkey neck recipes are a big part of Southern cooking. They are known for their unique flavors, health benefits, and quick cooking times. These recipes bring warmth and joy to your table, just like New Year’s traditions.
Conclusion
Learning to make tasty smoked turkey neck dishes is fun. It’s filled with great flavors and textures. This makes the often-overlooked cut shine.
Smoked turkey necks are packed with protein, giving you 25 grams per serving. They also have minerals like phosphorus and potassium. The best size for smoking is 1 to 2 pounds.
You can smoke them on the stove, in a slow cooker, or with smoke. Keeping the right temperatures and cooking times is key.
Using woods like hickory, oak, and maple can make your turkey necks taste even better. Make sure the inside gets to 165°F for safety. Brining or marinading before cooking also boosts the flavor.
Now you’re all set to dive into the world of smoked turkey neck dishes. You’ll add a special touch to your cooking.
Smoked turkey neck recipes are a delicious and nutritious way to bring Southern comfort food to your table. With their rich flavors, tender texture, and versatility, these dishes are perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or cozy weeknight meals. Whether you’re simmering them in a slow cooker, smoking them to perfection, or pairing them with hearty sides like collard greens and mashed potatoes, smoked turkey necks offer a unique culinary experience. For more information on the nutritional benefits of turkey and safe cooking practices, check out the USDA’s guidelines on poultry preparation .
FAQ
What are the benefits of cooking with turkey necks?
Turkey necks are cheap and full of protein. They taste like expensive cuts but cost less. You can find them all year, making meal planning easy.
How do you smoke turkey necks?
To smoke turkey necks, start with fresh ones and your favorite seasonings. Heat your smoker to 225°F. Season the necks well and smoke for 2-3 hours until they’re 165°F inside. This makes them tender and smoky.
What are some seasoning ideas for smoked turkey necks?
Try thyme and rosemary for a classic taste. For spice, use Cajun mix. Or, try Asian flavors with soy sauce, ginger, and sesame.
What is a good smoked turkey neck soup recipe?
For a tasty soup, use turkey necks, onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Brown the necks first. Then add veggies and seasonings. Simmer in water or stock for 1-2 hours. Season to taste before serving.
How do you cook smoked turkey necks in a slow cooker?
Slow cookers are great for turkey necks. Season the necks and add onions, garlic, and veggies. Use broth or water and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This makes them tender and flavorful.
What are some easy smoked turkey neck recipes?
One easy recipe is to simmer the necks with onions, garlic, and spices. Another is to cook them in a slow cooker with veggies and broth. Both are simple and delicious.
What sides pair well with smoked turkey necks?
Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or rice and beans. These sides balance the rich flavors of the turkey necks, making a complete meal.
What makes a smoked turkey neck recipe stand out?
A standout recipe uses unique techniques or ingredients. This could be a special seasoning, slow cooking, or a flavorful marinade. These elements make the dish memorable and tasty.
Can smoked turkey necks be used in appetizers?
check our recipe Juicy and Easy Turkey Drumstick Recipe
