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Ground Turkey Shank
Meats
Nutri-ScoreA

Ground Turkey Shank

Meleagris gallopavo

Clinical Encyclopedia

Ground turkey shank is a lean meat option that is rich in protein and essential nutrients, making it a healthy choice for various diets. It is particularly valued for its low fat content and versatility in cooking.

Also known as:
Turkey leg (USA)Turkey shank (USA)
Scientific NameMeleagris gallopavo
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories189 kcal
Water
70%
Fiber0g
Total34.0g
Protein
24g(71%)
Fats
10g(29%)
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)0.07 mg (6%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)11 mg (69%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)1 mg (10%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.5 mg (38%)
Vitamin B121 mcg (42%)
Choline70 mg (13%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Folate: 5 mcg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Iron1.2 mg (7%)
Magnesium23 mg (6%)
Phosphorus200 mg (29%)
Potassium300 mg (6%)
Zinc2 mg (18%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Selenium20 mcg (36%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Calcium: 11 mgManganese: 0.02 mg

Health Benefits

High in protein, ground turkey shank supports muscle growth and repair, making it an excellent choice for athletes and those looking to maintain a healthy weight.
Rich in B vitamins, particularly B3 and B6, it aids in energy metabolism and supports brain health.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Ground turkey can be contaminated with bacteria such as Salmonella or Campylobacter if not cooked properly. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How to Prepare & Consume

Ground turkey shank can be used in various dishes such as burgers, meatballs, or stir-fries. It is best cooked thoroughly and can be seasoned to enhance flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose ground turkey shank that is pink in color with minimal fat. Avoid packages with excessive liquid or discoloration.

How to Store

Store in the refrigerator and use within 1-2 days of purchase. For longer storage, freeze immediately.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

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

Medicinal Properties
High protein content, Low fat, Rich in B vitamins
Main Applications
Weight management
Muscle building
Bioactive Compounds
Creatine

Supports muscle energy and performance.

Taurine

May improve exercise performance and recovery.

How to Consume
Cooked, Ground, Minced
Did you know?

"Ground turkey shank is often considered a healthier alternative to ground beef due to its lower fat content."

Myths vs Realities

MythMyth: Ground turkey is always healthier than ground beef.
RealityReality: While ground turkey is often lower in fat, it can still be high in sodium and calories depending on the preparation.
MythMyth: Ground turkey shank is dry and tasteless.
RealityReality: When cooked properly and seasoned well, ground turkey shank can be flavorful and juicy.
MythMyth: All ground turkey is the same.
RealityReality: Ground turkey can vary in fat content; always check labels for the best choice.

Healthy Recipes

Spicy Ground Turkey Shank Lettuce Wraps

These refreshing lettuce wraps are packed with flavor and nutrients, featuring ground turkey shank sautéed with spicy seasonings and fresh vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground turkey shank
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 head of butter lettuce
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey shank and cook until browned.
  2. 2. Stir in chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, bell peppers, and carrots. Cook for another 5 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  3. 3. Remove from heat, add soy sauce and lime juice, and serve in butter lettuce leaves.

Ground Turkey Shank Quinoa Bowl

A nutritious quinoa bowl topped with seasoned ground turkey shank, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground turkey shank
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook quinoa in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
  2. 2. In a skillet, cook ground turkey shank over medium heat until browned. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa, turkey, tomatoes, cucumber, feta, olive oil, and lemon juice. Toss to combine.

Ground Turkey Shank Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground turkey shank, brown rice, and spices, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 large bell peppers
  • 1 lb ground turkey shank
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
  2. 2. In a skillet, cook ground turkey shank until browned. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the mixture into the bell peppers, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Ground Turkey Shank Zucchini Noodles

A low-carb alternative featuring spiralized zucchini noodles topped with a savory ground turkey shank marinara sauce.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground turkey shank
  • 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook ground turkey shank until browned. Add crushed tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, basil, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Simmer for 10 minutes until sauce thickens.
  3. 3. Serve over spiralized zucchini noodles.

Ground Turkey Shank Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Healthy tacos made with seasoned ground turkey shank, topped with a fresh avocado salsa for a burst of flavor.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground turkey shank
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, cook ground turkey shank with taco seasoning until browned.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix avocado, tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice, and salt to make salsa.
  3. 3. Serve turkey in corn tortillas topped with avocado salsa.

Ground Turkey Shank and Sweet Potato Hash

A hearty breakfast hash featuring ground turkey shank and sweet potatoes, perfect for a nutritious start to your day.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground turkey shank
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
  • 1 red onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté sweet potatoes until tender.
  2. 2. Add onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened. Stir in ground turkey shank and cook until browned.
  3. 3. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve.

Ground Turkey Shank and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Delicious portobello mushrooms stuffed with a flavorful mixture of ground turkey shank and spinach, baked until golden.

Ingredients
  • 4 large portobello mushrooms
  • 1 lb ground turkey shank
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove stems from mushrooms.
  2. 2. In a skillet, cook ground turkey shank until browned. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in ricotta, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the mixture into the mushrooms and bake for 20 minutes.

Ground Turkey Shank and Broccoli Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring ground turkey shank and broccoli in a savory sauce, served over brown rice.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground turkey shank
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat sesame oil and cook ground turkey shank until browned.
  2. 2. Add broccoli, soy sauce, ginger, salt, and pepper, and stir-fry for 5 minutes until broccoli is tender.
  3. 3. Serve over cooked brown rice.

Ground Turkey Shank and Chickpea Salad

A protein-packed salad featuring seasoned ground turkey shank and chickpeas, tossed with fresh vegetables and a light dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground turkey shank
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, cook ground turkey shank until browned. Let cool.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Add cooled turkey and toss to combine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is ground turkey shank healthier than ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey shank is generally lower in fat and calories compared to ground beef, making it a healthier option.

How should I cook ground turkey shank?

Cook ground turkey shank until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.

Can I substitute ground turkey shank for ground beef in recipes?

Yes, ground turkey shank can be used as a substitute for ground beef in most recipes, but it may require different cooking times.

What are the best seasonings for ground turkey shank?

Common seasonings include garlic, onion, paprika, and herbs like thyme and rosemary.

Is ground turkey shank high in cholesterol?

Ground turkey shank is lower in cholesterol compared to red meats, making it a heart-healthy choice.

How can I store leftover ground turkey shank?

Store cooked ground turkey shank in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I freeze ground turkey shank?

Yes, ground turkey shank can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

What dishes can I make with ground turkey shank?

You can make burgers, meatballs, tacos, or use it in casseroles and stir-fries.