Wild Turkey Recipes Slow Cooker

Successfully hunted a wild turkey? Congratulations! Bringing home this magnificent bird is an achievement, but it also presents a culinary challenge. Wild turkey, unlike its domesticated cousin, is known for being leaner and, if not prepared correctly, can be quite tough. Many hunters find themselves wondering how to transform their hard-earned prize into a delicious and memorable meal. Fear not, because there’s a secret weapon in your kitchen that can turn even the most stubborn wild turkey into a tender and flavorful masterpiece: the slow cooker.

The slow cooker, or Crock-Pot as it’s often called, is a game-changer when it comes to cooking wild turkey. Its low and slow cooking method breaks down tough muscle fibers, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy meat. Forget about dry, stringy turkey – with the right slow cooker recipes, you can unlock the true potential of this wild game bird. This article will guide you through a selection of the best wild turkey recipes slow cooker enthusiasts swear by, along with essential tips and tricks to ensure a successful and delicious result. Get ready to discover a world of flavor and convenience!

Why a Slow Cooker is Perfect for Wild Turkey

The slow cooker isn’t just convenient; it’s practically designed for cooking wild turkey. Here’s why:

Tenderness Achieved

Wild turkey meat is naturally lean and contains a higher proportion of connective tissue than domesticated turkey. This connective tissue, while nutritious, can make the meat tough if cooked too quickly. The beauty of the slow cooker lies in its ability to gently break down this connective tissue over a prolonged period. This process transforms tough fibers into tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness, ensuring that every bite is a delight.

Locking in Moisture

The low heat and enclosed environment of the slow cooker prevent moisture from escaping. This is crucial for wild turkey, which tends to dry out quickly if overcooked. The slow, consistent heat allows the meat to baste itself in its own juices, resulting in a succulent and flavorful outcome. No more dry, stringy turkey! You’ll find yourself enjoying a moist and delicious meal.

Flavor Infusion at its Finest

The extended cooking time in a slow cooker allows flavors to meld together in a way that’s simply not possible with faster cooking methods. Spices, herbs, and other seasonings have ample time to penetrate the meat, creating a rich and complex flavor profile. Whether you’re using a simple salt and pepper rub or a more elaborate marinade, the slow cooker will ensure that every element of your recipe shines through.

Unparalleled Convenience

Let’s face it: life is busy. The slow cooker offers the ultimate convenience for the modern cook. Simply prep your ingredients, load them into the slow cooker, set the timer, and walk away. You can go to work, run errands, or simply relax knowing that a delicious and satisfying meal is cooking itself. When you return, a flavorful and tender wild turkey dinner will be waiting for you.

Ideal for Large Cuts

Wild turkeys are often quite large, and dealing with a whole bird can be intimidating. The slow cooker provides ample space to accommodate larger cuts of meat, whether you’re cooking a whole turkey breast or several turkey legs. This eliminates the need for complicated butchering and ensures that all parts of the bird are cooked evenly.

Essential Tips for Slow Cooking Wild Turkey

While the slow cooker is a forgiving appliance, there are a few key tips that can help you achieve perfect results every time.

The Importance of Thawing

Before you even think about putting your wild turkey in the slow cooker, make sure it’s completely thawed. The safest and most recommended method is to thaw it in the refrigerator, allowing ample time for the process. Alternatively, you can submerge it in cold water, changing the water every thirty minutes. Never thaw a wild turkey at room temperature, as this can create a breeding ground for bacteria.

Browning for Enhanced Flavor

Although optional, browning the wild turkey before slow cooking adds a significant layer of flavor and improves its appearance. A quick sear in a hot skillet or under the broiler will create a beautiful golden-brown crust that enhances the overall taste and texture of the final dish.

Choosing the Right Liquid

Using enough liquid is crucial for keeping the wild turkey moist and preventing it from drying out during the slow cooking process. Choose a liquid that complements the flavors of your recipe. Chicken broth, turkey broth, wine, beer, or even water with bouillon are all excellent options. Make sure the liquid reaches at least halfway up the sides of the turkey in the slow cooker.

Generous Seasoning is Key

Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Wild turkey can be a bit bland on its own, so it’s important to use plenty of herbs, spices, and rubs to enhance its flavor. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite blend. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage are all great options.

Proper Placement

To prevent the wild turkey from sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker, place it on a bed of vegetables or use a roasting rack. This will allow air to circulate around the meat and ensure even cooking. Consider cutting the turkey into smaller pieces for faster cooking and easier handling.

Cooking Time Guidelines

Cooking time will vary depending on the size and weight of the wild turkey, as well as the specific recipe you’re using. As a general guideline, a whole turkey breast or several turkey legs will typically take around six to eight hours on low heat. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that the turkey reaches an internal temperature of one hundred sixty-five degrees Fahrenheit. Don’t overcook or the turkey will become dry.

Resting Before Carving

After the wild turkey is cooked, allow it to rest for at least fifteen to twenty minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.

Wild Turkey Slow Cooker Recipes

Now that you know the basics of slow cooking wild turkey, let’s dive into some delicious and easy recipes.

Classic Slow Cooker Wild Turkey with Gravy

This recipe is a simple and foolproof way to prepare a tender and flavorful wild turkey with rich and savory gravy. It’s a perfect option for Thanksgiving or any special occasion.

Ingredients:

One wild turkey breast (about three to four pounds)
Two tablespoons olive oil
One onion, chopped
Two carrots, chopped
Two celery stalks, chopped
Four cloves garlic, minced
Four cups chicken broth
Two tablespoons dried thyme
One tablespoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Two tablespoons cornstarch
Four tablespoons cold water

Instructions:

Pat the wild turkey breast dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the turkey breast on all sides until golden brown.
Place the chopped onion, carrots, and celery in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Place the seared turkey breast on top of the vegetables.
Add the minced garlic and chicken broth to the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for six to eight hours, or until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of one hundred sixty-five degrees Fahrenheit.
Remove the turkey from the slow cooker and let it rest for fifteen minutes before carving.
To make the gravy, strain the cooking liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan.
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth.
Bring the cooking liquid to a boil over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the cornstarch slurry.
Reduce heat and simmer for five to ten minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the sliced wild turkey with the gravy.

Tips for Perfect Gravy: For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of butter to the gravy while it’s simmering. You can also add a splash of dry sherry or Madeira wine for an extra layer of complexity.

Wild Turkey Chili

Transform leftover wild turkey into a hearty and flavorful chili that’s perfect for a cold winter day.

Ingredients:

Two tablespoons olive oil
One onion, chopped
Two cloves garlic, minced
One red bell pepper, chopped
One green bell pepper, chopped
One jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
One pound cooked wild turkey, shredded
One can (fifteen ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
One can (fifteen ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
One can (twenty-eight ounces) crushed tomatoes
One can (fifteen ounces) diced tomatoes
Two cups chicken broth
Two tablespoons chili powder
One tablespoon cumin
One teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about five minutes.
Add the garlic, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and jalapeño pepper (if using) and cook for another five minutes.
Transfer the vegetables to the slow cooker.
Add the shredded wild turkey, kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for six to eight hours, or on high for three to four hours.
Serve the chili with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions.

Variations and Toppings: Customize your chili by adding different types of beans, vegetables, or spices. Top with avocado, cilantro, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added flavor and texture.

Pulled Wild Turkey Sandwiches

Slow cooking is a fantastic way to create the perfect pulled turkey for sandwiches. Whether you prefer barbecue or vinegar-based sauces, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

Two to three pounds wild turkey legs or thighs
One bottle (eighteen ounces) barbecue sauce or vinegar-based sauce
One onion, quartered
Two cloves garlic, minced
One cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Buns, for serving
Coleslaw, for topping (optional)

Instructions:

Place the wild turkey legs or thighs in the slow cooker.
Add the onion, garlic, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
Pour the barbecue sauce or vinegar-based sauce over the turkey.
Cover and cook on low for six to eight hours, or until the turkey is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Remove the turkey from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
Return the shredded turkey to the slow cooker and toss with the sauce.
Serve the pulled wild turkey on buns with coleslaw, if desired.

Serving Suggestions: Experiment with different toppings, such as pickles, sliced onions, or a spicy mayo. Serve with a side of potato salad or corn on the cob for a complete meal.

Wild Turkey and Vegetable Stew

A hearty and nutritious stew featuring tender wild turkey and a medley of seasonal vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a cozy and comforting meal.

Ingredients:

Two tablespoons olive oil
One pound wild turkey, cubed
One onion, chopped
Two carrots, chopped
Two celery stalks, chopped
Four cloves garlic, minced
Four cups chicken broth
One pound potatoes, cubed
One cup frozen peas
One cup frozen corn
One teaspoon dried thyme
One teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the cubed wild turkey on all sides.
Transfer the browned turkey to the slow cooker.
Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the slow cooker.
Pour in the chicken broth.
Add the potatoes, peas, corn, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for six to eight hours, or on high for three to four hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
Serve hot.

Tips for Adding Different Vegetables: Feel free to add turnips, parsnips, green beans, or any of your favorite seasonal vegetables. You may also consider adding mushrooms at the beginning of the cooking process for added flavor and texture.

Wild Turkey Tetrazzini

A creamy, comforting pasta bake perfect for using up leftover wild turkey. This recipe adds a touch of elegance to your slow cooking.

Ingredients:

One pound cooked wild turkey, shredded
Eight ounces spaghetti, cooked according to package directions
Four tablespoons butter
Four tablespoons all-purpose flour
Three cups chicken broth
One cup heavy cream
Half cup grated Parmesan cheese
Half cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Half cup sliced mushrooms
Quarter cup dry sherry (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Spray the inside of the slow cooker with cooking spray.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth.
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, mushrooms, and sherry (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked spaghetti and shredded wild turkey to the slow cooker.
Pour the sauce over the pasta and turkey, making sure everything is well combined.
Top with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Cover and cook on low for two to three hours, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
Serve hot.

Notes on How to Add Extra Flavor: For enhanced flavor, you can saute the mushrooms in butter and garlic before adding them to the sauce. A pinch of nutmeg also adds a warm and subtle flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Leftover Ideas

Once you’ve created your delicious slow-cooked wild turkey masterpiece, it’s time to think about serving suggestions and what to do with any leftovers.

Side Dish Pairings

The best side dishes complement the flavor of the wild turkey without overpowering it. Classic choices include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole. For a lighter option, consider a fresh salad with a vinaigrette dressing. The Wild Turkey Stew can be paired with crusty bread. The Chili, with tortilla chips. The sandwiches, with a salad or fries.

Creative Ways to Use Leftovers

Don’t let any leftover wild turkey go to waste! Use it to create soups, sandwiches, salads, pot pies, or even tacos. Shredded wild turkey is a great addition to omelets or breakfast burritos. Get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations to create unique and delicious dishes. Add the leftover turkey to a salad. Or, make a soup!

Proper Storage of Leftovers

To ensure the safety and quality of your leftover wild turkey, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the turkey in airtight containers for up to three months.

Conclusion

As you’ve discovered, the slow cooker is an invaluable tool for transforming wild turkey into a tender, flavorful, and satisfying meal. The low and slow cooking method not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with rich and complex flavors. The convenience of the slow cooker allows you to enjoy a delicious wild turkey dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

We encourage you to try these wild turkey recipes slow cooker style and experience the magic for yourself. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a novice cook, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create restaurant-quality meals with this versatile appliance.

Now, we want to hear from you! Do you have your own favorite slow cooker wild turkey recipe? Share your tips and tricks in the comments below. We’re always looking for new and exciting ways to enjoy this delicious wild game bird.

For more information on cooking wild game, slow cooker tips, and other delicious recipes, be sure to check out our other articles. Happy cooking!