Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner option? Look no further than this ground turkey stir fry recipe! Packed with vibrant vegetables and lean protein, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making a delicious ground turkey stir fry, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, and more.
Ingredients
To make a delicious ground turkey stir fry, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 pound (450g) ground turkey
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for added flavor)
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Cooked rice or quinoa (for a gluten-free option)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Ground Turkey Stir Fry: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure to wash and chop all your vegetables. This will make the cooking process smoother and quicker.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned and cooked through. Make sure there’s no pink remaining.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
- Once the turkey is cooked, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, snap peas, and julienned carrot to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Step 4: Add the Sauces
- In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and cornstarch (if using). Pour this mixture over the stir-fried turkey and vegetables.
- Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped green onions.
- Serve the ground turkey stir fry over cooked rice or quinoa. Garnish with sesame seeds and chili flakes if desired.
Ground Turkey Stir Fry: Cooking Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only taste better but also retain more nutrients. Feel free to use seasonal vegetables for the best flavor.
- High Heat Cooking: Stir frying requires high heat to cook quickly and evenly. Make sure your skillet or wok is hot before adding the ingredients.
- Batch Cooking: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can double the recipe and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Ground Turkey Stir Fry: Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
This ground turkey stir fry is a great source of lean protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice for dinner.
Storage Advice
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the stir fry for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in a skillet over medium heat.
Ground Turkey Stir Fry Variations
Feel free to customize this ground turkey stir fry to suit your dietary needs or preferences:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground turkey with crumbled tofu or tempeh.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha for heat.
- Different Sauces: Experiment with teriyaki sauce or hoisin sauce for a different flavor profile.
Ground Turkey Stir Fry FAQ
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes! Frozen vegetables are a great time-saver. Just add them directly to the skillet and cook until heated through.
What can I serve with ground turkey stir fry?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles. You can also serve it with a side salad for a complete meal.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure that your oyster sauce is gluten-free.
Conclusion
This ground turkey stir fry is a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner that’s both nutritious and delicious. With its vibrant colors and flavors, it’s sure to please the whole family. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your results! What variations did you try? Let us know in the comments below!