Discover the Best Smothered Turkey Wings Recipe Ever!
Smothered turkey wings are a delicious and savory twist on traditional buffalo wings. Instead of being drenched in hot sauce, these wings are slow-cooked in a rich and flavorful gravy that’s infused with the deep flavors of onions, garlic, and spices. In this article, we’ll explore the history of smothered turkey wings, the benefits of using turkey wings instead of chicken, and provide a step-by-step recipe to make this mouthwatering dish at home.
Read Also: STOVED CHICKEN RECIPE (QUICK AND EASY)
Table of Contents
History of Smothered Turkey Wings
Smothered turkey wings have their roots in Southern American cuisine, where slow-cooked meats are a staple of traditional cooking. The dish is believed to have originated in the African American community, where resourceful cooks would use every part of the turkey to make a hearty and flavorful meal.
Over time, the recipe was passed down through generations and spread throughout the Southern states, with each region adding its own unique twist to the dish.
Benefits of Using Turkey Wings
Turkey wings are a popular alternative to chicken wings for several reasons. Firstly, they are larger and meatier than chicken wings, making them a more satisfying snack or meal. Secondly, turkey wings have a richer and more intense flavor than chicken wings, which holds up well to slow-cooking. Finally, turkey wings are often less expensive than chicken wings, making them a budget-friendly option for large gatherings or events.
Smothered Turkey Wings Recipe
Now that we’ve talked about the yummy and delicious Smothered Turkey Wings recipe. So here the ingredients:
Smothered Turkey Wings Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds turkey wings
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey Wings:Rinse the turkey wings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Toss the turkey wings in the flour mixture until they are evenly coated.
- Sear the Turkey Wings:Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the turkey wings and sear them until they are browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the wings from the skillet and set them aside.
- Soften the Onions:Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onions to the skillet. Cook the onions until they are softened and translucent, stirring occasionally. This should take about 10-12 minutes.
- Add the Garlic and Spices:Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Stir in the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, until the spices are fragrant.
- Add the Liquid:Add the chicken broth, red wine vinegar, and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until it has thickened slightly.
- Smother the Turkey Wings:Add the seared turkey wings to the skillet and spoon some of the gravy over them. Cover the skillet with a lid and transfer it to the oven. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, until the turkey wings are tender and falling off the bone.
- Serve:Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the smothered turkey wings hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs and crusty bread on the side.
Notes
- To make the dish more substantial, serve the smothered turkey wings with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
- For an extra crispy crust, broil the turkey wings for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- To make the dish spicier, add more cayenne pepper or use hot sauce instead of red wine vinegar.
- To make the dish more flavorful, add other spices or herbs to the gravy, such as dried thyme, rosemary, or bay.
Nutrition Information (Per serving)
- Calories: 420-560
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 24-30g
- Saturated Fat: 8-10g
- Cholesterol: 60-70mg
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 2-3g
- Sugar: 5-6g
- Sodium: 450-500mg
Note: Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Variations and Innovations
While traditional smothered turkey wings are a staple, innovative chefs and home cooks have experimented with new variations and flavors. From spicy Korean-style wings to Jamaican jerk-seasoned wings, the possibilities are endless. These variations have introduced smothered turkey wings to new audiences, cementing their place in the culinary landscape.
The Magic of Slow Cooking
Smothered turkey wings are slow-cooked in a rich and flavorful gravy that’s infused with the deep flavors of onions, garlic, and spices. This slow-cooking process is what sets smothered turkey wings apart from other dishes. It’s a labor of love that requires patience, care, and attention. The slow cooking process tenderizes the wings, making them fall-off-the-bone tender, and infuses them with a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Soul Food and Comfort Food
Smothered turkey wings are a quintessential soul food and comfort food dish. They evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth, reminding us of home, family, and loved ones. They’re a comfort food that transcends boundaries, bringing people together across cultures and generations.
FAQs
Can I use chicken wings instead of turkey wings?
Yes, you can use chicken wings as a substitute, but keep in mind that turkey wings have a richer flavor and texture.
Can I use store-bought chicken broth instead of homemade?
Yes, you can use store-bought chicken broth as a substitute, but homemade broth adds a richer flavor to the dish.
What sides go well with smothered turkey wings?
Sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, cornbread, and collard greens complement the dish well.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Brown the wings and cook the onions and garlic in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Conclusion
Smothered turkey wings are more than just a dish – they’re a symbol of love, family, tradition, and community. They represent the soulful story of African American cuisine, soul food, and comfort food. Whether you’re a foodie, a historian, or simply a lover of good food, smothered turkey wings are a culinary icon that deserves to be celebrated and cherished.