Raw Turkey Shank
Meleagris gallopavoClinical Encyclopedia
The raw turkey shank is a flavorful cut of meat that is rich in protein and essential nutrients, making it a great choice for hearty meals. It is often used in slow-cooked dishes, providing a tender texture and rich flavor.
Macronutrient Ratio
Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g
Micronutrient DV% Score
Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value
Health Benefits
Possible Risks & Side Effects
How to Prepare & Consume
It is recommended to cook turkey shank thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety. Slow cooking or braising can enhance its tenderness and flavor.
Smart Selection & Storage
Choose turkey shank that is pinkish in color with no off odors. The skin should be intact and moist, indicating freshness.
Store raw turkey shank in the coldest part of the refrigerator and use it within 1-2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze.
Myths vs Realities
MythTurkey is only eaten during Thanksgiving.+
MythAll turkey meat is dry.+
MythEating turkey makes you sleepy.+
Healthy Recipes
Herb-Crusted Turkey Shank with Quinoa Salad
A flavorful herb-crusted turkey shank served with a refreshing quinoa salad, packed with nutrients and perfect for a healthy meal.
- 2 raw turkey shanks
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2. Rub the turkey shanks with olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper, then place them in a roasting pan.
- 3. Roast the turkey shanks for 1.5 to 2 hours until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- 4. While the turkey is roasting, rinse the quinoa under cold water and cook it in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
- 5. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and lemon juice, mixing well.
- 6. Serve the roasted turkey shank alongside the quinoa salad.
Spicy Turkey Shank Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Delicious turkey shank tacos seasoned with spices and topped with a creamy avocado salsa, perfect for a healthy twist on a classic dish.
- 2 raw turkey shanks
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1. In a slow cooker, combine turkey shanks, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt, adding a little water to cover.
- 2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the turkey is tender and easily shredded.
- 3. In a bowl, mix avocado, tomatoes, cilantro, and lime juice to create the salsa.
- 4. Warm the corn tortillas and fill them with shredded turkey and avocado salsa before serving.
Mediterranean Turkey Shank Stew
A hearty and healthy stew featuring tender turkey shanks simmered with Mediterranean vegetables and spices.
- 2 raw turkey shanks
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
- 2. Add turkey shanks, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper, bringing to a boil.
- 3. Reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours until turkey is tender.
- 4. Stir in spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
Grilled Turkey Shank with Mango Salsa
Juicy grilled turkey shank served with a vibrant mango salsa, offering a delightful combination of flavors and health benefits.
- 2 raw turkey shanks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- 2. Rub turkey shanks with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Grill turkey shanks for about 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked.
- 4. In a bowl, combine mango, red bell pepper, red onion, and lime juice to create the salsa.
- 5. Serve grilled turkey shank topped with mango salsa.
Turkey Shank and Sweet Potato Hash
A nutritious and filling hash made with turkey shank and sweet potatoes, perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
- 2 raw turkey shanks
- 2 large sweet potatoes, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 eggs (optional)
- 1. Cook turkey shanks in a slow cooker or boil until tender, then shred the meat.
- 2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion, bell pepper, and sweet potatoes until softened.
- 3. Add shredded turkey to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until heated through.
- 4. If desired, fry eggs in a separate pan and serve on top of the hash.
Turkey Shank Curry with Coconut Milk
A creamy and aromatic turkey shank curry made with coconut milk and spices, served over brown rice for a wholesome meal.
- 2 raw turkey shanks
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups brown rice
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- 1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- 2. Add turkey shanks and brown on all sides, then stir in curry powder and coconut milk.
- 3. Simmer for 1.5 hours until turkey is tender.
- 4. Cook brown rice according to package instructions and serve turkey curry over rice, garnished with cilantro.
Stuffed Turkey Shank with Spinach and Feta
A gourmet stuffed turkey shank filled with spinach and feta cheese, baked to perfection for a delicious and healthy meal.
- 2 raw turkey shanks
- 2 cups fresh spinach, sautéed
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- 2. In a bowl, mix sautéed spinach, feta cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Carefully stuff the turkey shanks with the spinach mixture and secure with kitchen twine.
- 4. Rub the outside with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then bake for 1.5 hours until cooked through.
Turkey Shank and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring turkey shank and colorful vegetables, perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.
- 2 raw turkey shanks, shredded
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Cooked brown rice for serving
- 1. In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- 2. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry until tender-crisp.
- 3. Stir in shredded turkey shank and soy sauce, cooking until heated through.
- 4. Serve over cooked brown rice.
Baked Turkey Shank with Garlic and Rosemary
A simple yet elegant baked turkey shank infused with garlic and rosemary, served with a side of roasted vegetables.
- 2 raw turkey shanks
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups assorted vegetables (zucchini, carrots, bell peppers)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2. In a bowl, mix garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper, then rub over the turkey shanks.
- 3. Place turkey shanks in a baking dish with assorted vegetables drizzled with olive oil.
- 4. Bake for 1.5 hours until the turkey is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Turkey Shank and Lentil Soup
A hearty and nutritious soup made with turkey shank and lentils, perfect for a comforting meal any time of year.
- 2 raw turkey shanks
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
- 2. Add turkey shanks, lentils, chicken broth, salt, and pepper, bringing to a boil.
- 3. Reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours until lentils are tender and turkey is cooked through.
- 4. Remove turkey shanks, shred the meat, and return to the soup before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How should I store raw turkey shank?
Raw turkey shank should be stored in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below and used within 1-2 days. For longer storage, freeze it.
What is the best way to cook turkey shank?
The best way to cook turkey shank is to braise it slowly in a flavorful liquid, which helps to tenderize the meat.
Can I eat turkey shank on a low-carb diet?
Yes, turkey shank is low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it suitable for low-carb diets.
What are the health benefits of turkey shank?
Turkey shank is high in protein, B vitamins, and selenium, which support muscle health, energy metabolism, and immune function.
Is it safe to eat raw turkey shank?
No, raw turkey shank should not be eaten as it can harbor harmful bacteria. Always cook it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How long does it take to cook turkey shank?
Cooking time for turkey shank varies, but it typically takes 2-3 hours when braised or slow-cooked.
Can I use turkey shank in soups?
Yes, turkey shank adds great flavor to soups and stews, especially when cooked slowly to extract its rich taste.
What is the nutritional value of turkey shank?
Turkey shank is high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice.