After indulging in a delicious turkey feast, you might find yourself wondering what to do with all that leftover turkey. Instead of the usual turkey sandwiches or turkey soup, why not try something a bit more creative and flavorful?
A leftover turkey curry is just what you need to transform those leftovers into a whole new meal that’s comforting, satisfying, and incredibly tasty.
This recipe will guide you through the process of making a delightful turkey curry, packed with an array of spices that bring both depth and warmth to your dish. It is easy to follow and allows you to make the most of your leftover turkey, creating a completely new and mouthwatering experience that your taste buds will thank you for.
With a medley of aromatic spices and the tender texture of your leftover turkey, this curry is the perfect way to turn a humble meal into a fantastic treat. Gather your ingredients and let’s get started on this scrumptious culinary adventure. Your family and friends will surely appreciate this innovative and flavorsome approach to repurposing your turkey leftovers.
Ingredients for Leftover Turkey Curry
Main Ingredients
For this flavorful Leftover Turkey Curry recipe, you’ll need the following main ingredients:
Leftover turkey: 3 cups, shredded or cubed
Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Ginger: 1-inch piece, grated or minced
Coconut milk: 1 can (14 oz), full-fat or light
Chopped tomatoes: 1 can (14 oz), with juice
Cauliflower: 1 small, cut into florets
Potatoes: 2 medium, peeled and cubed
Water: 1 cup
Spices and Seasonings
To make the mouthwatering curry sauce, gather these spices and seasonings:
Curry powder: 2 tablespoons
Coriander: 1 teaspoon, ground
Garam masala: 1 teaspoon
Cumin: 1 teaspoon, ground
Cumin seeds: 1 teaspoon
Turmeric: 1/2 teaspoon, ground
Red chilli: 1, finely chopped (optional for heat)
Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground
Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste
Sugar: 1 teaspoon
To prepare the sauce base, you will also need:
Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons
All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons
As a finishing touch and to serve, you’ll need:
Cilantro: 1/4 cup, chopped
Mint: 1/4 cup, chopped (optional)
Basmati rice: cooked, for serving
Naan breads: warmed, for serving
This versatile recipe can also be made with leftover chicken instead of turkey or you can add in your choice of greens like spinach or kale to increase the nutritional value. The spices can be adjusted to your preference, and you may substitute the coconut milk with cream for a richer texture. Make sure to have the ingredients chopped and ready to go, as this delicious curry comes together in no time!
Cooking Steps for Turkey Curry
Preparation
Before you start cooking your turkey curry, gather all the necessary ingredients: cooked or roast turkey, rice, spices, curry powder, cinnamon, ghee, a skillet, fragrant spices, basmati rice, turmeric, chicken broth, and curry sauce. To utilize your leftover turkey, dice the turkey meat into bite-sized pieces, set aside.
Prepare your spices by measuring out the following:
1 tablespoon of curry powder
1 teaspoon of turmeric
1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
Next, prepare your basmati rice according to package instructions, set aside when cooked.
In a large non-stick skillet or pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee over medium heat.
Simmering the Curry
Now it’s time to create your fragrant turkey curry. Once the ghee has melted, add the pre-measured spices to the skillet. Stir the spices until they become fragrant, which should take about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Add the diced turkey meat to the skillet, ensuring that it gets fully coated with the spices, and let it cook for about 2 to 3 minutes.
At this point, you should add 1 cup of chicken broth to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process will help blend the flavors in the curry sauce and tenderize the turkey meat.
Once the curry has simmered for the specified time, taste it, and add salt, pepper, or more spices as needed, according to your preference.
Finally, serve your turkey curry over the previously cooked basmati rice. This delicious leftover turkey recipe can be further enjoyed with a side of naan bread or a simple green salad. Enjoy your homemade turkey curry, a warm and comforting meal perfect for the days following a holiday feast.
Serving and Storing Leftover Turkey Curry
Serving Suggestions
Your leftover turkey curry is best enjoyed with some accompaniments to truly appreciate its flavors and textures. A popular choice is serving it over a bed of steamed rice or pilau rice which absorbs the delicious curry sauce. You might also consider including warm naan breads to dip into the scrumptious sauce.
For added flavor and a touch of freshness, garnish your leftover turkey curry with chopped cilantro. To complement the dish further, serve with a side of mango chutney that adds a fruity tanginess, balancing out the richness of the curry.
If you’re feeling creative, you can also transform the leftover turkey curry into delicious sandwiches by filling them in a crusty baguette along with some crunchy salad greens.
Storing and Reheating Instructions
To store your leftover turkey curry, follow these steps:
Cool the curry: Allow the curry to cool to room temperature. To speed up the process, you can place the pot in a cold-water bath.
Transfer to storage containers: Place the cooled turkey curry in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
Storing: Store the curry in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover turkey curry again, follow these reheating instructions:
From the refrigerator: Pour the turkey curry into a saucepan and gently reheat it over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of water to thin the sauce, if needed. Cook until the curry is heated through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
From the freezer: Thaw the frozen curry in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat following the same steps as above.
Keep in mind that turkey meat may become drier upon reheating, so adding a bit of water or chicken stock can help retain its moisture and revive the flavors of the curry. Enjoy your reheated leftover turkey curry with freshly cooked rice, naan, or any other accompaniment of your choice.
Nutrition and Dietary Information
This Leftover Turkey Curry recipe is not only a delicious way to use up those holiday dinner leftovers, but it also offers a good balance of nutrients that benefits your overall health. Let’s break down the nutrition information in this tasty and satisfying dish.
First and foremost, the turkey naturally provides a substantial amount of protein. A 3-ounce serving of turkey contains about 24 grams of protein, making it an excellent source of this essential nutrient. Protein helps support muscle growth, proper functioning of your immune system, and the synthesis of hormones and enzymes.
Another vital aspect of this recipe is its calorie content. An average serving of Leftover Turkey Curry may have around 300-400 calories, depending on the specific ingredients and serving size. This moderate calorie content makes the dish suitable for those looking to maintain their current weight or on a weight loss journey.
Regarding carbs and fat, this curry offers a good balance of both these macronutrients. An average serving may provide around 15-25 grams of carbohydrates and 10-15 grams of fat. Influence these numbers by adjusting ingredients such as rice, potatoes, or using a light coconut milk.
Here’s a brief overview of the nutrition facts per serving:
Protein: 24g
Calories: 300-400
Carbs: 15-25g
Fat: 10-15g
This Leftover Turkey Curry is a versatile dish that adapts well to different dietary preferences. If you’re following a gluten-free diet, make sure to choose a gluten-free curry paste and soy sauce alternative, such as tamari. In case you’re avoiding carbs, consider serving the curry on a bed of cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables instead of traditional rice.
In conclusion, the Leftover Turkey Curry recipe not only allows you to reinvent your holiday leftovers but also provides an excellent balance of essential nutrients. With this nutritional knowledge in hand, you can confidently enjoy the delicious and satisfying flavors of this dish, knowing that it supports your well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for a leftover turkey curry?
To make a leftover turkey curry, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Cooked turkey, shredded or cubed
Onion, chopped
Garlic cloves, minced
Ginger, grated or minced
Curry powder or paste
Canned tomatoes or tomato puree
Coconut milk or yogurt
Vegetable or chicken broth
Oil for cooking
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional ingredients: vegetables, raisins, and nuts
You may also want to include fresh cilantro, lime or lemon juice for additional taste.
How long does it take to prepare and cook a turkey curry?
Preparing and cooking a turkey curry typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes. This includes time for chopping and prepping ingredients, as well as simmering the curry on the stovetop to allow the flavors to meld together.
Can the turkey curry be made in a slow cooker?
Yes, turkey curry can be made in a slow cooker. Just prepare the ingredients as you would for the stovetop version, then cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Make sure to add the cooked turkey during the last hour of cooking so it doesn’t get overcooked.
Is it possible to freeze and reheat turkey curry?
Absolutely! When freezing turkey curry, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy the curry, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, making sure to stir frequently to ensure even heating.
What are some variations of turkey curry recipes?
There are numerous variations of turkey curry recipes to suit your taste buds. You can experiment with different curry powders or pastes, such as Madras, Tikka Masala, or Korma. Additional vegetables, such as bell peppers, peas, or cauliflower, can be added to the curry for more texture and flavor. Feel free to adjust the level of spice to your preference as well.
What side dishes go well with turkey curry?
To complete your turkey curry meal, consider serving it with basmati or jasmine rice, naan bread, or even some roti or chapati. For a lighter side, a fresh cucumber and tomato raita or a light salad complement the flavors of the curry wonderfully.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
