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Braised Turkey Drumstick
Meats
Nutri-ScoreA

Braised Turkey Drumstick

Meleagris gallopavo

Clinical Encyclopedia

Braised turkey drumsticks are a flavorful and tender meat option, rich in protein and essential nutrients. They are often slow-cooked to enhance their taste and texture.

Also known as:
Turkey LegTurkey Thigh
Scientific NameMeleagris gallopavo
Region of OriginNorth America

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories250 kcal
Water
60%
Fiber0g
Total42.0g
Protein
28g(67%)
Fats
14g(33%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.2 mg (15%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)10 mg (63%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)1 mg (20%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.5 mg (38%)
Vitamin B121 mcg (42%)
Choline60 mg (11%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Folate: 5 mcgVitamin A: 30 IUVitamin D: 0 IUVitamin E: 0.2 mgVitamin K: 0.5 mcg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Iron1.5 mg (8%)
Magnesium20 mg (5%)
Phosphorus200 mg (20%)
Potassium300 mg (6%)
Zinc2 mg (18%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Manganese0.1 mg (5%)
Selenium20 mcg (36%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Calcium: 10 mg

Health Benefits

High in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Rich in B vitamins, particularly B3 and B6, which support energy metabolism and brain health.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Slow-cooking or braising in broth or sauce enhances flavor and tenderness. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose turkey drumsticks that are firm, with no discoloration or off odors. Fresh meat should feel moist but not slimy.

How to Store

Store raw turkey drumsticks in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage. Cooked drumsticks can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Rich in protein, Supports muscle health, Contains essential vitamins and minerals.
Main Applications
Protein source in meals
Used in soups and stews
Bioactive Compounds
Creatine

Supports muscle energy and performance.

Taurine

May improve heart health and exercise performance.

How to Consume
Roasted, Braised, Stewed
Did you know?

"Turkey is a traditional dish in the United States during Thanksgiving, symbolizing abundance and celebration."

Myths vs Realities

MythTurkey makes you sleepy.
RealityWhile turkey contains tryptophan, the sleepiness is often due to overeating during meals.
MythAll turkey is dry.
RealityProper cooking methods, like braising, can keep turkey moist and flavorful.
MythTurkey is unhealthy.
RealityTurkey is a lean meat option that can be part of a healthy diet when prepared correctly.

Healthy Recipes

Herb-Infused Braised Turkey Drumsticks

These tender turkey drumsticks are braised with a medley of fresh herbs and garlic, creating a flavorful and healthy dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients
  • 4 turkey drumsticks
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season turkey drumsticks with salt and pepper, then brown them on all sides.
  2. 2. Add garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the pot, sautéing until fragrant.
  3. 3. Pour in chicken broth, cover, and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours until the meat is tender.

Spicy Braised Turkey Drumsticks with Quinoa

This dish features spicy braised turkey drumsticks served over a bed of fluffy quinoa, combining protein and fiber for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 4 turkey drumsticks
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt to taste
  • Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, season turkey drumsticks with chili powder, cumin, and salt, then brown them on all sides.
  2. 2. Add water to the pot, cover, and braise on low heat for 1.5 hours.
  3. 3. Meanwhile, cook quinoa in a separate pot with 2 cups of water until fluffy. Serve turkey drumsticks over quinoa, garnished with cilantro.

Mediterranean Braised Turkey Drumsticks

Enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean with these braised turkey drumsticks, cooked with olives, tomatoes, and artichokes for a vibrant and healthy dish.

Ingredients
  • 4 turkey drumsticks
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
  • 1 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1 cup artichoke hearts, quartered
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and brown the turkey drumsticks on all sides.
  2. 2. Add diced tomatoes, olives, artichokes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot.
  3. 3. Cover and braise on low heat for 1.5 hours until the turkey is tender and infused with flavors.

Coconut Curry Braised Turkey Drumsticks

This exotic dish features turkey drumsticks braised in a rich coconut curry sauce, offering a delightful blend of spices and creamy texture.

Ingredients
  • 4 turkey drumsticks
  • 1 can coconut milk (13.5 oz)
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add turkey drumsticks and curry powder, browning them on all sides.
  3. 3. Pour in coconut milk, cover, and braise on low heat for 1.5 hours until tender.

Braised Turkey Drumsticks with Root Vegetables

This hearty dish features braised turkey drumsticks cooked with a variety of root vegetables, making it a comforting and nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 4 turkey drumsticks
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 parsnips, chopped
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and brown the turkey drumsticks.
  2. 2. Add chopped vegetables and sauté for a few minutes.
  3. 3. Pour in chicken broth, cover, and braise on low heat for 1.5 hours until the turkey and vegetables are tender.

Braised Turkey Drumsticks with Apple Cider Glaze

This sweet and savory dish features turkey drumsticks braised in apple cider, creating a deliciously unique flavor profile.

Ingredients
  • 4 turkey drumsticks
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Brown turkey drumsticks in a pot, then remove and set aside.
  2. 2. Sauté onion and garlic in the same pot until soft, then add apple cider and thyme.
  3. 3. Return turkey to the pot, cover, and braise on low heat for 1.5 hours.

Braised Turkey Drumsticks with Ginger Soy Sauce

This Asian-inspired dish features turkey drumsticks braised in a flavorful ginger soy sauce, offering a healthy twist on a classic.

Ingredients
  • 4 turkey drumsticks
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
  • 2 tablespoons ginger, grated
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • Scallions for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, heat sesame oil and brown the turkey drumsticks.
  2. 2. Add ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and chicken broth to the pot.
  3. 3. Cover and braise on low heat for 1.5 hours, garnishing with scallions before serving.

Braised Turkey Drumsticks with Lentils

This nutritious dish combines braised turkey drumsticks with hearty lentils, creating a protein-packed meal that is both filling and healthy.

Ingredients
  • 4 turkey drumsticks
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and brown the turkey drumsticks.
  2. 2. Add onion and carrots, cooking until softened.
  3. 3. Stir in lentils and vegetable broth, cover, and braise on low heat for 1.5 hours.

Braised Turkey Drumsticks with Spinach and Feta

This Mediterranean-inspired dish features braised turkey drumsticks served over a bed of sautéed spinach and topped with crumbled feta cheese.

Ingredients
  • 4 turkey drumsticks
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Brown turkey drumsticks in a pot, then remove and set aside.
  2. 2. Add chicken broth, cover, and braise on low heat for 1.5 hours.
  3. 3. Sauté spinach in olive oil until wilted, serve turkey drumsticks over spinach, and top with feta.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is turkey drumstick healthy?

Yes, turkey drumsticks are high in protein and provide essential nutrients like B vitamins and minerals.

How should I cook turkey drumsticks?

Braised or slow-cooked methods are recommended for tenderness and flavor.

Can I eat turkey drumsticks on a diet?

Yes, they can be part of a balanced diet, especially when prepared without excessive fats.

What is the best way to season turkey drumsticks?

Use herbs like rosemary, thyme, and garlic for enhanced flavor.

Are turkey drumsticks gluten-free?

Yes, turkey drumsticks are naturally gluten-free.

How long do I need to cook turkey drumsticks?

Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), usually about 2-3 hours when braising.

Can I freeze cooked turkey drumsticks?

Yes, cooked turkey drumsticks can be frozen for up to 3 months.

What are the nutritional benefits of turkey drumsticks?

They are rich in protein, low in carbohydrates, and provide essential vitamins and minerals.