If you’re someone who doesn’t want to prepare an entire turkey this Thanksgiving, turkey wings are a great alternative. This comforting and flavorful dish will bring the taste of the South to your table. These wings are seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, including garlic, onion, paprika, and thyme, then slowly braised until they become fall-off-the-bone tender. The cooking process creates a rich and savory gravy that perfectly complements the juicy meat. Served with traditional Southern sides like collard greens, mashed potatoes, or your favorite cornbread dressing, these turkey wings are a hearty, soul-warming meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or Sunday dinners.
Here’s a recipe for tender turkey wings featuring a savory gravy that’s full of flavor:
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey wings
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken or turkey broth
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Season the Turkey Wings:
– In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and salt.
– Rub the turkey wings with olive oil and then coat them evenly with the seasoning mixture.
3. Sear the Turkey Wings:
– Heat a large skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat.
– Add the seasoned turkey wings and sear on both sides until they are golden brown (about 4-5 minutes per side).
– Remove the wings from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
– In the same skillet, add sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become soft and caramelized, about 5 minutes.
5. Braise the Turkey Wings:
– Return the turkey wings to the skillet, placing them on top of the sautéed onions.
– Pour in the chicken or turkey broth, ensuring the wings are partially submerged in the liquid.
– Cover the skillet with aluminum foil or a lid and transfer to the preheated oven.
– Bake for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the turkey wings are tender and falling off the bone.
6. Make the Gravy:
– Once the wings are fully cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside, keeping them warm.
– To make the gravy, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a separate pan over medium heat.
– Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, whisking constantly to form a roux.
– Slowly pour in the liquid from the turkey wings (about 1-1.5 cups), whisking to combine until the gravy thickens.
– Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, if necessary.
7. Serve:
– Place the turkey wings on a serving platter, pour the gravy over them, and garnish with fresh parsley.
– Serve with your favorite Southern sides like collard greens, cornbread, or mashed potatoes.
Enjoy your turkey wings and gravy!
