If you love turkey meat, you will definitely love smoked turkey tails. Smoked turkey tails are a dish that is gaining popularity, especially among barbecue and smoker enthusiasts. Think of smoked turkey tails as a mini version of the full-size turkey you usually have on Thanksgiving feast.
They offer the same succulent flavor in a much more convenient form. That’s why, it’s one of the must-have dishes for any outdoor gathering or backyard barbecue.
But do you know that making smoked turkey tails is actually quite easy? It’s really not difficult to learn how to cook them and the mouth-watering results will make it worth your time. Let’s check the recipe.
Want more turkey recipes? Check these:
What are Smoked turkey tails?
Usually, a turkey tail is a muscle of the bird above the rear holding its symbolic tail feathers. This part of the turkey is very delicious and tender when it is smoked. The meat has a smoky flavor that can be enjoyed in different dishes, and the tail part is often used as an accompaniment to other ingredients.
What does it taste like?
The smoked turkey tails have a unique flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. Because they are cooked in the smoker, they get an amazing smoky note to them. The meat is tender and juicy, with notable hints of herbs and spices from the rub you used.
How did I first get introduced to the Smoked turkey tails?
I was first introduced to the smoked turkey tails at a friend’s backyard barbecue. I heard about them and decided to give them a try, as I had never tasted anything like it before. I must say that the flavor was amazing – it was smoky and juicy, with hints of herbs and spices from the rub used.
How to make Smoked turkey tails?
Making smoked turkey tails is an easy and delicious way to enjoy the flavor of a southern classic. This recipe combines the rich smoky flavor of smoked turkey tails with a variety of herbs, spices, and other seasonings to create a unique and flavorful dish that’s sure to please everyone at your next gathering.
You can also checkout the following dinner Recipe :
Ingredients
- 5 turkey tails
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 cups white vinegar
- 4 tsp turkey rub divided
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 5 cloves garlic minced
Step by step instructions
Step 1
Trim the excess fat from the turkey tails. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, dijon mustard, white vinegar, 2 tsp of the turkey rub, and honey. Mix until blended and set aside.
Step 2
Rub each turkey tail with the remaining 2 tsp of turkey rub and garlic. Place in a shallow baking dish.
Step 3
Pour the soy sauce mixture over the turkey tails and cover them with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 45 minutes.
Step4
Remove the turkey tails from the oven, let them cool slightly, and pour off any excess fat or liquid in the pan. Place on a medium-high heat grill.
Step 5
Grill, basting often with the soy sauce mixture, for 8-10 minutes or until the turkey tails are cooked through and golden brown. Serve warm.
Tips
• You can use any type of rub you prefer for this recipe.
• If you don’t have a grill, you can also bake or roast the turkey tails in the oven.
• Basting often will help to keep the turkey moist and flavorful.
Ingredients
- 5 turkey tails
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 cups white vinegar
- 4 tsp turkey rub divided
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 5 cloves garlic minced
Instructions
- Trim the excess fat from the turkey tails. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, dijon mustard, white vinegar, 2 tsp of the turkey rub, and honey. Mix until blended and set aside.
- Rub each turkey tail with the remaining 2 tsp of turkey rub and garlic. Place in a shallow baking dish.
- Pour the soy sauce mixture over the turkey tails and cover them with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the turkey tails from the oven, let them cool slightly, and pour off any excess fat or liquid in the pan. Place on a medium-high heat grill.
- Grill, basting often with the soy sauce mixture, for 8-10 minutes or until the turkey tails are cooked through and golden brown. Serve warm.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition Information
- Serving size: 1 turkey tail
- Calories: 130
- Total fat: 5g
- Saturated fat: 2g
- Trans fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total carbohydrate: 8g
- Dietary fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 14g
What to serve with smoked turkey tails?
Smoked turkey tails are deliciously served with sides like coleslaw, baked beans, steamed vegetables, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, or a side salad. Also, it can be served as a main dish or as an appetizer.
How to store leftover smoked turkey tails?
Leftover smoked turkey tails can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, place in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Can pregnant women eat this?
It is generally recommended that pregnant women avoid eating smoked/uncooked poultry products such as turkey tails due to the risk of foodborne illness. Therefore, it is best to consult with your doctor before consuming any type of smoked poultry.
FAQs
Can I use other types of seasonings for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of rub or seasoning blend that you prefer.
How long does it take to smoke the turkey tails?
Depending on the size of your turkey tails, it should take 8-10 minutes to fully cook them on the grill.
Is this dish suitable for those on a low-carb diet?
Yes, it is. Each serving of smoked turkey tails contains only 8g of carbohydrates per serving.
How long will smoked turkey tails keep in the refrigerator?
Smoked turkey tails can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Wrapping Up
Smoked turkey tails are a delicious and easy-to-make Southern classic that combines the rich smoky flavor of smoked turkey with a variety of spices and seasonings. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or just cooking for your family, this dish is sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s low in carbs and can be easily stored in the refrigerator for later.
Please share any tips or recipes that you have for preparing smoked turkey tails. We would love to hear them! Also, share this recipe with your friends and family so they can enjoy it too! Now, get ready to enjoy some delicious smoked turkey tails! Thank you for your time.
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Rebecca Novak is a trained chef with over 10 years of experience in the food industry. She has worked in both fine dining and casual Hungarian restaurants and specializes in creating dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. She also loves exploring different cuisines worldwide, which allows her to bring unique flavors and ideas to the recipes she creates for Hungarianchef.com. Read more