When it comes to Thanksgiving or any other special occasion, turkey is a must-have dish. Most of us opt for roasted turkey, but why not try something different this year? Apple braised turkey thighs recipes are a delicious alternative that will delight your taste buds. This recipe involves cooking the turkey thighs in a mixture of apples, herbs, vegetables, and spices, giving it a unique and flavorful taste.

What is braising?

Braising is a cooking method that uses both moist and dry heat. The meat is first seared in hot oil to create a crust, then cooked in a liquid (often wine or broth) at a low temperature for a long time. This way, the meat remains tender and juicy while absorbing all the flavors from the liquid. Braising is perfect for tougher cuts of meat, like turkey thighs, as it breaks down the connective tissue and makes them softer.

Ingredients

- 4 turkey thighs (bone-in, skin-on) - 2 cups of apple cider - 2 apples (peeled, cored, and chopped) - 1 onion (chopped) - 4 garlic cloves (minced) - 2 tablespoons of olive oil - 1 tablespoon of honey - 1 tablespoon of dijon mustard - 1 teaspoon of cinnamon - 1 teaspoon of thyme - 1 teaspoon of salt - ½ teaspoon of black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Step 2: Sear the turkey thighs

Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the turkey thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet, skin-side down. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until crispy and browned. Flip the turkey thighs and cook for another 5 minutes on the other side.

Step 3: Cook the onions and garlic

Remove the turkey thighs from the skillet and set them aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the onions are translucent.

Step 4: Add the apples and spices

Add the chopped apples, cinnamon, and thyme to the skillet, and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the apples are slightly softened.

Step 5: Add the liquid ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider, honey, and dijon mustard. Pour the mixture over the apples and onions and stir to combine.

Step 6: Braise the turkey thighs

Return the seared turkey thighs to the skillet, skin-side up. Spoon some of the apple mixture over the turkey thighs. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the oven. Braise for 35-40 minutes, or until the turkey thighs are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 7: Rest and serve

Remove the skillet from the oven and let the turkey thighs rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Spoon some of the apple mixture over the turkey and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Conclusion

Apple braised turkey thighs recipes are a fantastic alternative to traditional roasted turkey. The apples, herbs, and spices add a unique touch to the dish that will surprise and delight your guests' taste buds. Braising the turkey thighs ensures they remain juicy and flavorful, making them a perfect addition to any holiday feast. So why not give this recipe a try this Thanksgiving? Your family and friends will thank you!

Valuable Tips for Making Delicious Apple Braised Turkey Thighs

When it comes to cooking a delicious and flavorful turkey dish, braising is an excellent cooking method to consider. Braising combines the process of searing the meat with various herbs and vegetables, followed by a slow simmering process which infuses the flavors together. One of the best variations of this method is apple braised turkey thighs, which produce a unique and savory flavor for your dinner table. Here are some valuable tips to consider when making apple braised turkey thighs:

1. Choose Fresh Turkey Thighs

Choosing fresh poultry is essential for ensuring the best flavor of your dish. Look for plump, skin-on turkey thighs that are free from blemishes and cracks. Fresh thighs have a lighter color and a pleasant smell, unlike those that have been sitting on shelves for too long.

2. Proper Seasoning is Key

Seasoning your turkey thighs properly is an important part of the braising process. Add salt and pepper to the turkey to help bring out the flavors. You can also add other seasonings that you have in your spice rack, such as sage, thyme or rosemary, to enhance the flavor profile. Let the seasoning sit on the turkey thighs for a few hours before braising for optimal results.

3. Use Fresh Apples for the Best Results

When making apple braised turkey thighs, fresh apples provide the best flavor. You can use any variety of apples, but it is recommended to choose a sweeter type like Fuji or Gala, instead of tart varieties like Granny Smith. The natural sweetness of fresh apples pairs well with the savory turkey thighs, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.

4. Preheat Your Cooking Vessel

Proper preheating of the cooking vessel is essential for achieving tender and flavorful turkey thighs. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees before you begin cooking, then use a cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven to sear the turkey thighs. This will help create a crispy crust and lock in the flavors.

5. Use Quality Cooking Oil

Using quality cooking oil is an essential aspect of braising turkey thighs. Avoid using vegetable oil and instead use a high-quality oil such as olive oil, avocado oil, or grape seed oil, which have high smoke points and won't add any unwanted flavors to your dish.

6. Brown Your Turkey Thighs Properly

Searing your turkey thighs before adding them to the oven helps develop a crispy crust, leading to a delicious texture and flavor. Heat your cooking oil in the skillet over medium-high heat and wait until the oil starts to smoke lightly before adding your turkey thighs. Allow each side to cook for three to four minutes or until golden-brown.

7. Add Enough Liquid to Braise

Braising requires adding enough liquid to the pot for the turkey thighs to slowly cook and absorb the flavors. While the apples will release some liquid, you will still need to add stock, broth or apple cider to the pot. The liquid should cover the turkey thighs halfway, ensuring proper braising of the meat.

8. Cover and Simmer at the Right Temperature

Once you have added the liquid, it's essential to cover the pot and bring everything to a simmer. This will help the turkey thighs cook through while retaining moisture and flavor. Simmer for 1½-2 hours, or until the turkey meat is tender and falling off the bone.

9. Don't Overcook

Overcooking the turkey thighs can lead to dry and tough meat. Keep a close eye on the turkey to ensure it remains tender and juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check if the temperature inside the turkey has reached 165°F, which is considered to be the safe internal temperature for poultry.

10. Rest Before Serving

Once the turkey thighs have been cooked, it's essential to let them rest before slicing and serving. Let the meat sit for five to ten minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. This helps keep the turkey juicy and tender. In conclusion, apple braised turkey thighs are a delicious and savory dish that is perfect for any occasion. Follow these valuable tips to make the best version of apple braised turkey thighs that you and your family will surely enjoy.