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Grilled Turkey Kidney
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Nutri-ScoreA

Grilled Turkey Kidney

Meleagris gallopavo

Clinical Encyclopedia

Grilled turkey kidney is a nutrient-dense organ meat that provides a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, particularly B vitamins and iron. It is often overlooked but can be a flavorful addition to various dishes.

Also known as:
Turkey KidneyTurkey Organ Meat
Scientific NameMeleagris gallopavo
Region of OriginNorth America

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories143 kcal
Water
72%
Fiber0g
Total25.7g
Protein
20.5g(80%)
Fats
5.2g(20%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin B122.4 µg (100%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.7 mg (35%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Iron2.2 mg (12%)
Zinc2.9 mg (26%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

High in protein, grilled turkey kidney supports muscle growth and repair, making it an excellent choice for athletes and active individuals.
Rich in vitamin B12, it plays a crucial role in red blood cell formation and neurological function.
Contains significant amounts of iron, which is essential for oxygen transport in the blood and preventing anemia.
Low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Excessive consumption of organ meats can lead to high cholesterol levels due to their fat content.
!Individuals with gout or high uric acid levels should limit intake due to purine content.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed grilled or sautéed, seasoned with herbs and spices to enhance flavor. Ensure thorough cooking to eliminate any potential pathogens.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose fresh turkey kidneys that are firm and have a bright color. Avoid any that appear discolored or have an off smell.

How to Store

Store fresh kidneys in the refrigerator and use them within 1-2 days. Cooked kidneys can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Myths vs Realities

MythOrgan meats are unhealthy and should be avoided.
RealityIn moderation, organ meats like turkey kidneys are nutrient-dense and can be part of a healthy diet.
MythEating organ meats increases cholesterol levels significantly.
RealityWhile organ meats contain cholesterol, they can be part of a balanced diet without significantly impacting cholesterol levels for most people.
MythAll organ meats taste bad.
RealityWhen prepared correctly, organ meats can be flavorful and enjoyable.

Healthy Recipes

Herbed Grilled Turkey Kidneys with Quinoa Salad

A nutritious dish featuring grilled turkey kidneys marinated in fresh herbs, served alongside a vibrant quinoa salad packed with vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 500g turkey kidneys, cleaned and trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
  1. 1. Marinate the turkey kidneys in olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
  2. 2. Cook quinoa in vegetable broth according to package instructions, then fluff with a fork and let cool.
  3. 3. Grill the marinated kidneys over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through, then serve with the quinoa salad mixed with tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and lemon juice.

Spicy Grilled Turkey Kidneys Tacos

These spicy turkey kidney tacos are a healthy twist on a classic, featuring a zesty avocado salsa and fresh toppings.

Ingredients
  • 400g turkey kidneys, cleaned and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
  1. 1. Toss the sliced turkey kidneys with chili powder, cumin, olive oil, and salt, then grill for about 5 minutes until cooked through.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine avocado, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice to make the salsa.
  3. 3. Serve the grilled kidneys in corn tortillas topped with the avocado salsa.

Mediterranean Grilled Turkey Kidneys with Tzatziki

Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with grilled turkey kidneys served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce and roasted vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 500g turkey kidneys, cleaned and halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 red onion, cut into wedges
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 cucumber, grated
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
  1. 1. Marinate the turkey kidneys in olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes.
  2. 2. Grill the kidneys and vegetables until cooked and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3. Mix Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and lemon juice to make tzatziki, then serve alongside the grilled kidneys and vegetables.

Grilled Turkey Kidney Skewers with Pineapple Salsa

These flavorful skewers combine grilled turkey kidneys with a sweet and tangy pineapple salsa for a delightful summer dish.

Ingredients
  • 500g turkey kidneys, cleaned and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup pineapple, diced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
  1. 1. Marinate the turkey kidneys in soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, ginger, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
  2. 2. Thread the marinated kidneys onto skewers and grill for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally.
  3. 3. Combine pineapple, red bell pepper, cilantro, and lime juice to make the salsa, then serve over the grilled skewers.

Grilled Turkey Kidney Salad with Spinach and Feta

A hearty salad featuring grilled turkey kidneys on a bed of fresh spinach, topped with feta cheese and a light vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 400g turkey kidneys, cleaned and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions
  1. 1. Marinate the turkey kidneys in balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes.
  2. 2. Grill the kidneys for 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
  3. 3. Toss spinach, feta, walnuts, and red onion in a bowl, then top with grilled kidneys and serve.

Asian-Inspired Grilled Turkey Kidneys with Stir-Fried Vegetables

A fusion dish featuring grilled turkey kidneys served with a colorful mix of stir-fried vegetables and a savory sauce.

Ingredients
  • 500g turkey kidneys, cleaned and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Marinate the turkey kidneys in soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes.
  2. 2. Grill the kidneys for about 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
  3. 3. Stir-fry the mixed vegetables in a pan until tender, then serve with the grilled kidneys, garnished with sesame seeds.

Grilled Turkey Kidney and Sweet Potato Hash

A hearty breakfast or brunch option, this hash features grilled turkey kidneys and sweet potatoes, seasoned to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 400g turkey kidneys, cleaned and diced
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 eggs (optional for topping)
Instructions
  1. 1. Boil sweet potatoes until tender, then drain and set aside.
  2. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until translucent, then add turkey kidneys and cook until browned.
  3. 3. Add sweet potatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook until everything is heated through. Top with a fried egg if desired.

Grilled Turkey Kidney and Avocado Salad Wraps

These healthy wraps are filled with grilled turkey kidneys, creamy avocado, and fresh veggies, perfect for a light lunch.

Ingredients
  • 400g turkey kidneys, cleaned and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 large lettuce leaves (for wrapping)
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1/4 cup hummus
Instructions
  1. 1. Marinate the turkey kidneys in olive oil, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes, then grill for about 5-7 minutes.
  2. 2. Spread hummus on lettuce leaves, then layer with avocado, cucumber, carrot, and grilled kidneys.
  3. 3. Wrap tightly and serve immediately.

Grilled Turkey Kidney and Cauliflower Rice Bowl

A low-carb bowl featuring grilled turkey kidneys served over cauliflower rice and topped with fresh herbs and lime.

Ingredients
  • 500g turkey kidneys, cleaned and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 head cauliflower, grated into rice-sized pieces
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
  1. 1. Marinate the turkey kidneys in olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes, then grill for 5-7 minutes.
  2. 2. Sauté grated cauliflower in a pan until tender, about 5 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve grilled kidneys over cauliflower rice, garnished with cilantro and lime juice.

Grilled Turkey Kidney Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers are stuffed with a flavorful mixture of grilled turkey kidneys, brown rice, and spices for a complete meal.

Ingredients
  • 500g turkey kidneys, cleaned and chopped
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed
  • 1 cup corn, drained
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. Grill the turkey kidneys until cooked through, then mix with brown rice, taco seasoning, black beans, and corn.
  2. 2. Stuff the mixture into halved bell peppers and place on the grill for about 10 minutes until peppers are tender.
  3. 3. Top with cheese if desired and serve warm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is grilled turkey kidney safe to eat?

Yes, when properly cooked, grilled turkey kidney is safe to eat and provides numerous health benefits.

How should I cook turkey kidneys?

Turkey kidneys can be grilled, sautéed, or added to stews. Ensure they are cooked thoroughly.

What are the nutritional benefits of turkey kidneys?

They are high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and rich in essential vitamins and minerals.

Can I eat turkey kidneys if I have high cholesterol?

Moderation is key; consult with a healthcare provider if you have concerns about cholesterol.

How do turkey kidneys compare to other organ meats?

Turkey kidneys are lower in fat compared to beef or pork kidneys, making them a leaner option.

Are there any specific health benefits to eating organ meats?

Yes, organ meats are nutrient-dense and provide essential vitamins and minerals that are often lacking in muscle meats.

How can I incorporate turkey kidneys into my diet?

They can be added to stir-fries, soups, or served as a main dish with vegetables.

What is the best way to store cooked turkey kidneys?

Store cooked turkey kidneys in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.