The Best Turkey Necks in New Orleans

Turkey Necks: A New Orleans Tradition

Turkey necks are a popular dish in New Orleans, and for good reason. They’re flavorful, hearty, and affordable. But what exactly are turkey necks, and how did they become such a staple of New Orleans cuisine?

Turkey necks are the neck of a turkey, and they’re typically sold in butcher shops or supermarkets. They’re a dark meat, which means they’re higher in fat than white meat. But that fat also gives them their flavor. Turkey necks are often slow-cooked, which allows the fat to render down and infuse the meat with flavor.

Turkey necks are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. They can be roasted, grilled, braised, or stewed. They’re also a great addition to soups and stews.

If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful dish that’s a taste of New Orleans, turkey necks are a great option. They’re easy to cook, and they’re sure to please everyone at the table.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at turkey necks. We’ll discuss their history, their nutritional value, and some of the different ways they can be cooked. We’ll also provide you with some tips for choosing and preparing turkey necks.

Ingredient	Quantity	Instructions
Turkey necks	4	Rinse the turkey necks and pat dry.
Olive oil	1 tablespoon	Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Yellow onion	1, chopped	Add the onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Garlic	4 cloves, minced	Add the garlic to the pot and cook for 1 minute more.
Creole seasoning	1 tablespoon	Add the Creole seasoning to the pot and stir to coat the turkey necks.
Chicken broth	1 cup	Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, or until the turkey necks are tender.
Serve with your favorite sides, such as rice, beans, and cornbread.

History of Turkey Necks in New Orleans

Turkey necks have been a popular dish in New Orleans for centuries. They are often served as a main course or as an appetizer, and they are typically cooked in a variety of ways.

The history of turkey necks in New Orleans is a long and storied one. The dish is believed to have originated in Africa, where turkeys were first domesticated. When enslaved Africans were brought to America, they brought their culinary traditions with them, including the dish of turkey necks.

Turkey necks were a popular dish among enslaved Africans because they were a cheap and easy way to feed a large group of people. The necks were also a source of protein and nutrients, which were essential for survival in the harsh conditions of slavery.

After the Civil War, turkey necks continued to be a popular dish in New Orleans. They were often served at family gatherings and special occasions. The dish also became a staple of the city’s culinary landscape, and it can now be found on menus all over town.

Today, turkey necks are still a popular dish in New Orleans. They are often served with a variety of sides, such as rice, beans, and greens. They can also be fried, grilled, or roasted.

No matter how they are cooked, turkey necks are a delicious and flavorful dish that is a part of the rich culinary heritage of New Orleans.

Preparation of Turkey Necks

Turkey necks are a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in a variety of ways. They can be fried, grilled, roasted, or braised.

To fry turkey necks, you will need:

* 1 dozen turkey necks
* 1 cup of buttermilk
* 1 cup of all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon of salt
* 1 teaspoon of black pepper
* 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
* 1/4 cup of vegetable oil

To prepare the turkey necks, first rinse them under cold water and pat them dry. Then, place them in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Let the turkey necks soak in the buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.

While the turkey necks are soaking, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a large bowl.

After the turkey necks have soaked for 30 minutes, remove them from the buttermilk and dredge them in the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour.

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the turkey necks to the skillet. Cook the turkey necks for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Serve the fried turkey necks immediately with your favorite sides.

To grill turkey necks, you will need:

* 1 dozen turkey necks
* 1 cup of barbecue sauce
* 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
* 1/4 cup of brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon of salt
* 1 teaspoon of black pepper
* 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
* 1/4 cup of vegetable oil

To prepare the turkey necks, first rinse them under cold water and pat them dry. Then, place them in a large bowl and pour the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper over them. Let the turkey necks marinate in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.

While the turkey necks are marinating, preheat your grill to medium heat.

After the turkey necks have marinated for 30 minutes, remove them from the marinade and place them on the grill. Cook the turkey necks for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through.

Serve the grilled turkey necks immediately with your favorite sides.

To roast turkey necks, you will need:

* 1 dozen turkey necks
* 1 cup of chicken broth
* 1/2 cup of white wine
* 1/4 cup of olive oil
* 1 teaspoon of salt
* 1 teaspoon of black pepper
* 1/2 teaspoon of thyme
* 1/4 teaspoon of rosemary
* 1/4 teaspoon of sage

To prepare the turkey necks, first rinse them under cold water and pat them dry. Then, place them in a large roasting pan.

In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, white wine, olive oil, salt, black pepper, thyme, rosemary, and sage. Pour the mixture over the turkey necks.

Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil and bake the turkey necks in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 hour.

After 1 hour, remove the aluminum foil and continue to bake the turkey necks for another 30 minutes, or until they are cooked

Popularity of Turkey Necks in New Orleans

Turkey necks are a popular dish in New Orleans, and for good reason. They are a delicious and affordable way to enjoy a taste of the city’s rich culinary heritage. Turkey necks are also a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to gumbo and jambalaya.

There are a few reasons why turkey necks are so popular in New Orleans. First, they are a traditional dish that has been enjoyed in the city for generations. Second, turkey necks are a relatively inexpensive cut of meat, making them a budget-friendly option for families. Third, turkey necks are a good source of protein and nutrients, making them a healthy and satisfying meal.

If you are looking for a taste of New Orleans cuisine, turkey necks are a must-try. They are a delicious and affordable way to enjoy the city’s rich culinary heritage.

Where to Find Turkey Necks in New Orleans

Turkey necks can be found at a variety of butcher shops and grocery stores in New Orleans. However, the best place to find turkey necks is at a local Creole or Cajun restaurant. These restaurants typically serve turkey necks as part of their traditional menu, and they will know how to cook them properly.

If you are looking for a specific restaurant that serves turkey necks, here are a few suggestions:

* K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen is a popular Creole restaurant that is known for its traditional dishes. Turkey necks are a regular feature on the menu, and they are always cooked to perfection.
* Mother’s Restaurant is another popular Creole restaurant that serves turkey necks. The turkey necks at Mother’s are braised in a rich and flavorful sauce, and they are sure to please even the most discerning palate.
* Crescent City Grill is a Cajun restaurant that serves up some of the best turkey necks in town. The turkey necks at Crescent City Grill are grilled to perfection, and they are served with a variety of delicious sides.

No matter where you choose to get your turkey necks, you are sure to enjoy them. They are a delicious and affordable way to enjoy a taste of New Orleans cuisine.

Turkey necks are a delicious and affordable way to enjoy a taste of New Orleans cuisine. They are a popular dish in the city, and for good reason. Turkey necks are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to gumbo and jambalaya. If you are looking for a taste of New Orleans, turkey necks are a must-try.

Q: What are turkey necks?

A: Turkey necks are the neck of a turkey, typically sold as a bone-in cut. They are a popular ingredient in Creole and Cajun cuisine, and are often used in soups, stews, and braises.

Q: What are the nutritional benefits of turkey necks?

A: Turkey necks are a good source of protein, niacin, phosphorus, and zinc. They are also low in fat and calories.

Q: How do I cook turkey necks?

A: There are many ways to cook turkey necks. They can be roasted, braised, stewed, or grilled. Here are a few tips for cooking turkey necks:

* Roast turkey necks at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 2 hours, or until the meat is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
* Braise turkey necks in a slow cooker with vegetables, broth, and spices for 6-8 hours, or until the meat is tender.
* Stew turkey necks in a pot with vegetables, broth, and spices for 1-2 hours, or until the meat is tender.
* Grill turkey necks over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the meat is cooked through and the skin is charred.

Q: What are some common mistakes people make when cooking turkey necks?

A: Some common mistakes people make when cooking turkey necks include:

* Overcooking turkey necks. Turkey necks are a tough cut of meat, so they need to be cooked slowly and low to avoid drying out.
* Not seasoning turkey necks properly. Turkey necks are a bland cut of meat, so they need to be seasoned well to bring out their flavor.
* Not letting turkey necks rest before serving. Turkey necks will continue to cook after they are removed from the heat, so it is important to let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Q: Where can I buy turkey necks?

A: Turkey necks can be purchased at most grocery stores. They are often sold in the meat section, near the chicken.

Q: What are some other uses for turkey necks?

A: In addition to being used in soups, stews, and braises, turkey necks can also be used to make stock or gravy. They can also be smoked or pickled.

Q: Are turkey necks safe to eat?

A: Yes, turkey necks are safe to eat. However, it is important to cook them thoroughly to avoid foodborne illness.

turkey necks are a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. They are a popular ingredient in New Orleans cuisine, where they are often used in gumbo, jambalaya, and other dishes. Turkey necks are a good source of protein and other nutrients, and they are relatively inexpensive. If you are looking for a new way to use turkey necks, be sure to try one of the recipes in this article. You may be surprised at how delicious they are!

Here are some key takeaways from the content:

* Turkey necks are a flavorful and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes.
* They are a good source of protein and other nutrients.
* They are relatively inexpensive.
* If you are looking for a new way to use turkey necks, be sure to try one of the recipes in this article.