One often overlooked part of the turkey is the wings, which, when prepared correctly, can be a flavorful and satisfying dish. In this article, we’ll explore a delectable baked turkey wings recipe that will leave your taste buds tingling.
1. Do You Rinse & Soak Turkey Wings Before Cooking?
Yes, it’s recommended to rinse and soak turkey wings before cooking them. Here are some knowledge and tips you should know.
Rinse turkey wings under cold running water before cooking. This helps remove any bacteria or contaminants on the surface.
After rinsing, place the wings in a bowl or container of cold water and let them soak for 30 minutes up to 1 hour. This allows blood and impurities to dissolve and pull away from the meat.
For extra cleaning power, add 2 tablespoons of vinegar or lemon juice to the soak water. The acidity helps further break down impurities.
Once done soaking, remove the wings from the water and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Drying prevents splattering when cooking and helps ensure seasonings properly adhere.
2. How To Cook Turkey Wings in Oven
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of turkey wings (cleaned)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the turkey wings cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispy texture.
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, rosemary, sage, and parsley. Mix them well to create a flavorful seasoning blend.
Place prepared turkey wings in a large mixing bowl and drizzle them with olive oil. Use your hands to ensure each wing is evenly coated. This not only adds flavor but also helps the skin become beautifully golden and crispy.
Then sprinkle the seasoning blend generously over the wings. Make sure to coat each wing thoroughly, rubbing the seasoning in for even distribution.
Line a baking tray with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking. Place a wire rack on top of the tray. This elevates the wings, allowing heat to circulate evenly, resulting in a crispier texture.
Carefully arrange the seasoned turkey wings on the wire rack. Make sure they’re not touching to ensure even cooking. Place the tray in the preheated oven.
Bake the wings for about 45-50 minutes. At the halfway mark, take them out and flip them over. This helps to achieve an even crispiness on both sides.
Once out of the oven, let the wings rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a succulent and tender bite.
You can test if the wings cooked by using a meat thermometer and insert into the thickest part of the meat without hitting bone to check the temperature. Turkey wings are safely cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serve your baked turkey wings with a side of your choice.
3. What To Eat With Baked Turkey Wings?
- Vegetable Sides
Roasted Vegetables: Toss vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and herbs, then roast them alongside baked turkey wings for a flavorful and nutritious side dish.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli florets seasoned with a little butter, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese make a simple yet tasty accompaniment.
- Starchy Sides
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that complements the bake flavors of the turkey wings.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve baked turkey wings over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a satisfying and filling meal.
- Salads
Coleslaw: A crisp and tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory baked turkey wings.
Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with a variety of fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette dressing can balance with smoke and savory flavor of baked turkey wings
Baked turkey wings are a delightful alternative to the traditional whole bird, offering a convenient and delicious way to enjoy this protein-packed meat. This recipe provides a simple yet flavorful approach to cooking turkey wings in the oven, resulting in a crispy, golden exterior and tender, juicy interior.
