Welcome to a dish that’s as regal as its name suggests! Turkey Ala King is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender turkey, vibrant veggies, and a creamy sauce that’ll have you coming back for seconds. Perfect for using up leftover turkey or just craving something deliciously creamy.
Why This Recipe Works
- Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe is a fantastic way to give leftover turkey a luxurious makeover, turning it into a dish that feels entirely new and exciting.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, pasta, or toast for a satisfying meal that suits any preference or pantry situation.
- Rich and Creamy Sauce: The combination of butter, flour, and cream creates a velvety sauce that coats every bite of turkey and vegetables beautifully.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked turkey, diced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup green peas
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Melt the Butter and Cook the Vegetables
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms, green peas, and red bell pepper, cooking until they’re just tender, about 5 minutes. This step not only softens the vegetables but also infuses the butter with their flavors, creating a richer base for the sauce.
Create the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables, stirring constantly to combine. Cook for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. This roux will thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings to every piece of turkey and vegetable.
Gradually Add Liquids
Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Once the broth is fully incorporated and the mixture begins to thicken, add the heavy cream. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken further, about 5 minutes.
Add the Turkey
Fold in the diced turkey, ensuring each piece is coated with the creamy sauce. Let the mixture heat through for about 3 minutes, allowing the turkey to absorb some of the sauce’s flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is heated through and the sauce has reached your desired consistency, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the Turkey Ala King over your choice of base, garnishing with a sprinkle of parsley if desired.
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. If you’re in a pinch, a splash of white wine added with the broth can elevate the dish’s complexity. For those who prefer a thicker sauce, let the mixture simmer a bit longer before adding the turkey. Conversely, if the sauce is too thick, a little extra broth can loosen it up. Lastly, don’t shy away from experimenting with different vegetables based on what’s in season or your personal preferences.
Recipe Variations
- Chicken Ala King: Swap the turkey for chicken for a classic take on this dish.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the turkey and use vegetable broth, adding more vegetables like carrots and celery for heartiness.
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour to make this dish gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Turkey Ala King ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the vegetables ahead of time, then simply reheat and add the turkey when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to store everything properly in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little broth if the sauce has thickened too much upon cooling.
Can I freeze Turkey Ala King?
While you can freeze it, the cream-based sauce may separate upon thawing, affecting the texture. For best results, consume it fresh or refrigerated.
Summary
Turkey Ala King is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for using up leftovers or just enjoying a hearty meal. With its versatile serving options and rich sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.