Dinner

batch cooked turkey and kale stew with lemon and fresh garlic

Name: batch cooked turkey and kale stew with lemon and fresh garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 6-8 servings

By Pam 2023-01-01 ⏱ 15 min 🔥 45 min 🍽 6-8 servings

Add the Broth and Lemon:

Add 4 cups of chicken broth, 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.

Simmer the Stew:

Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the turkey is cooked through and the kale is tender.

Tips for Perfect Results

Use Fresh Ingredients:

Fresh herbs, lemon juice, and garlic will make a huge difference in the flavor of your stew. Try to use the freshest ingredients you can find.

Don't Overcook the Kale:

Kale can become bitter and tough if overcooked. Try to cook it until it's just wilted, then remove it from the heat.

Acidity Balances Flavor:

The acidity in the lemon juice helps to balance the richness of the turkey and kale. Don't be afraid to add a squeeze of lemon to your stew.

Let it Rest:

Letting the stew rest for 10-15 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld together and the turkey to stay moist.

Experiment with Spices:

Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the stew to make it your own. Some options include paprika, cumin, or dried oregano.

Use a Dutch Oven:

A Dutch oven is the perfect vessel for this stew, as it allows for even heat distribution and retention. If you don't have one, a large pot will do.

Make it a Meal:

Serve the stew with some crusty bread or over rice or noodles to make it a filling meal.

Freeze for Later:

This stew freezes beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or future meals. Simply thaw and reheat when you're ready.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Turkey: Make sure to cook the turkey until it's just cooked through, as overcooking can make it dry and tough.
Fix: Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey, and remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches 165°F.
Not Using Enough Liquid: Make sure to use enough chicken broth to cover the ingredients, as this will help to create a rich and flavorful stew.
Fix: Add more chicken broth as needed, and make sure to stir the stew occasionally to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Not Letting it Rest: Letting the stew rest for 10-15 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld together and the turkey to stay moist.
Fix: Let the stew rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, and use this time to prepare any sides or garnishes.
Not Seasoning Enough: Make sure to season the stew with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs, as this will help to bring out the flavors of the ingredients.
Fix: Taste the stew as you go and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can also add more spices or herbs to taste.

Variations & Substitutions

Add Some Heat:

Add some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes to give the stew a spicy kick.

Go Vegan:

Replace the turkey with chickpeas or tofu, and use a vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Add Some Carbs:

Add some diced potatoes or noodles to the stew to make it more filling.

Use Different Greens:

Replace the kale with spinach, collard greens, or mustard greens for a different flavor and texture.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Room Temp:

The stew can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After 2 hours, it's best to refrigerate or freeze the stew to prevent bacterial growth.

Refrigerator:

The stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the stew to room temperature before refrigerating, and reheat it to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

Freezer:

The stew can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool the stew to room temperature before freezing, and reheat it to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving. You can also freeze the stew in individual portions for easy meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this recipe up to 2 days in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving. The flavors actually improve as they meld together overnight.