Gathering around the table is one of Thanksgiving’s greatest joys. When the feast concludes, however, a mountain of turkey usually remains. This year, instead of boring turkey sandwiches, consider something with a little more flair: Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Carnitas.
These shredded treats sing with vibrant flavors and are easily versatile. But before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about what you can serve alongside these delicious carnitas.
Tasty Pairings: 1. Tacos: Use corn or wheat tortillas. Fill them with carnitas and top with fresh cilantro, chopped onions, and a squeeze of lime.
2. Rice Bowls: Layer the carnitas over brown rice and add avocado slices, salsa, and black beans for a hearty meal.
3. Salads: Serve the turkey carnitas on a bed of mixed greens with your favorite dressing. It adds protein and flavor.
4. Quesadillas: Mix the shredded turkey with cheese and other fillings like peppers, then grill until crispy.
5. Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with carnitas, melted cheese, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings for a game-day treat.
Now, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Carnitas transforms your holiday turkey into a tantalizing dish. The shredded turkey simmers gently with spices, creating a rich, savory flavor profile that elevates the traditional meat and makes it feel fresh and new.
This dish captures the essence of traditional carnitas made with pork, but it adds a unique twist by utilizing the turkey you already have
. The use of spices ensures that the turkey takes on a new life, and the cooking process lends an air of warmth and comfort—perfect for subsequent winter meals.
This turkey carnitas recipe boasts a dynamic flavor profile. It combines warmth from cumin and cinnamon with the rich umami of turkey.
- Savory Notes: Rich turkey meat paired with savory spices creates a full-bodied flavor. - Citrusy Brightness: Fresh orange provides the necessary zing, balancing the heavier notes of turkey and spices. - Herbal Undertones: Bay leaves, garlic, and onions combine for an aromatic splash.
You get all this without excessive fuss. That’s because leftover turkey deserves a second chance with flavors that dance on your taste buds.
The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability and ease. Not only is it a fantastic way to repurpose leftover turkey, but it also:
1. Saves Time: In just a few steps, you’ll be on your way to dinner.
2. Budget-Friendly: Turn affordable leftovers into something special without breaking the bank.
3. Versatility: Whether you’re filling tacos, making burrito bowls, or topping nachos, these carnitas are adaptable enough to meet any craving.
4. Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
5. Crowd-Pleaser: Even those who are not fans of turkey will likely appreciate this dish. Who doesn’t love a good taco, right?
To get started, let’s gather what you need. Here’s a list to make your shopping trip a breeze:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil (or rendered turkey fat) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant, around 1-2 minutes. This is where the base of flavor begins.
Next, toss in the quartered orange and cooked turkey meat. Stir everything together, allowing the turkey to soak up the flavors while the orange infuses its zest. Cook for about 3-5 minutes.
Now it's time to add the chicken broth along with the bouillon cube. Stir well until the cube is completely dissolved. Don’t forget to toss in the cinnamon stick and bay leaves.
Sprinkle in the sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. These spices are the heroes of this dish, giving it life and making those dreary leftovers shine. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible.
Once tender, remove the turkey from the pot. Using two forks, shred the turkey, then return it to the pot, allowing the meat to absorb more flavor while simmering for another 10 minutes.
After the final simmer, fish out the cinnamon stick and bay leaves. It’s time to serve! You can pile the carnitas onto tortillas, rice bowls, or salads. Drizzle some fresh lime juice for an extra kick.
Here are some handy tips to get the most out of your turkey carnitas:
- Use Dark Meat: If possible, go for dark turkey meat; it has more flavor and moisture.
- Crisp the Carnitas: If you like, you can crispy up the shredded turkey by broiling it for 5-7 minutes once cooked. This adds texture.
- Make-ahead Meal: Cook a day in advance for flavors that deepen overnight. Just reheat when you're ready to serve.
- Control the Spice: Want it spicier? Add chopped jalapeños during the sauté step.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker mixture, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes to reduce the liquid.
The nutrition information can fluctuate based on your ingredient choices, but typically one serving of these turkey carnitas (assuming about a quarter of the recipe) contains:
Storing your turkey carnitas is straightforward.
1. In the Refrigerator: Once cooled, transfer the carnitas to an airtight container. They should keep well for 3-4 days in the fridge.
2. In the Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Properly stored, they can last up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Not all of us have the exact ingredients on hand. Here are some substitutions to consider:
- For Onion: Shallots or leeks can add sweetness and depth. - For Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth serves as an excellent alternative if you’re keeping it vegetarian or want a lighter option. - For Smoked Paprika: If you only have regular paprika, consider adding a touch of liquid smoke or cayenne pepper for the smoky kick.
There you have it! A recipe that not only uses up those Thanksgiving turkey leftovers but also adds a creative twist to your holiday menu.
Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Carnitas offer a chance to reimagine what’s left on the plate. With a unique flavor profile and endless serving options, this dish won’t just satisfy your taste buds—it’s bound to become a new family favorite.
So, the next time the turkey is piled high in your fridge, remember this recipe. Dive into the rich flavors, enjoy the aromatic journey, and do it all with a smile knowing you’ve transformed your leftovers into something spectacular. Who knew repurposed turkey could taste this good? Happy cooking!
As I stood in my kitchen surrounded by piles of Tupperware filled with leftover turkey, I felt that familiar blend of nostalgia and frustration. I love Thanksgiving, but what do you do with that staggering amount of food?
Instead of aiming for another round of basic turkey sandwiches, my adventurous side kicked in. One evening, armed with spices and a touch of creativity, I conjured up Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Carnitas.
The aromatic experience of cooking was so exciting that it quickly overshadowed my Thanksgiving regrets. Let me guide you through this delightful journey, starting with everything you need to know about these flavorful carnitas.
Servings 6
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
I’m Crystal Ivers, a registered dietitian and the creator of Easy Family Meal. Living in Chicago with my family, I’m passionate about helping busy families create simple, nutritious, and delicious meals. Through my blog, I share easy-to-make recipes and practical tips to make family mealtime enjoyable and stress-free.