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Ground Turkey Thigh
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Ground Turkey Thigh

Meleagris gallopavo

Clinical Encyclopedia

Ground turkey thigh is a flavorful and nutritious meat option, rich in protein and lower in fat compared to other meats. It is an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Also known as:
Ground turkey (USA)Turkey mince (UK)
Scientific NameMeleagris gallopavo
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories189 kcal
Water
70%
Fiber0g
Total33.0g
Protein
22.5g(68%)
Fats
10.5g(32%)
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 b1 (thiamine)0.07 mg (6%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.09 mg (7%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)9 mg (56%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)1 mg (20%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.5 mg (39%)
Folate6 mcg (2%)
Vitamin B121 mcg (42%)
Choline70 mg (13%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Iron1.2 mg (7%)
Magnesium20 mg (5%)
Phosphorus200 mg (29%)
Potassium270 mg (6%)
Zinc2 mg (18%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Selenium24 mcg (44%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Calcium: 11 mgManganese: 0.02 mg

Health Benefits

High in protein, ground turkey thigh supports muscle growth and repair, making it an ideal choice for athletes and active individuals.
Rich in B vitamins, it aids in energy metabolism and supports overall health.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Ground turkey thigh can be cooked in various ways, including grilling, baking, or sautéing. Ensure it is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose ground turkey thigh that is pink in color with minimal visible fat. Avoid packages with excessive liquid or discoloration.

How to Store

Store in the refrigerator and use within 2 days or freeze for longer storage. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
High protein content, Low fat, Rich in B vitamins
Main Applications
Muscle building and recovery
Weight management
Bioactive Compounds
Creatine

Supports muscle energy and performance.

Taurine

May improve exercise performance and recovery.

How to Consume
Cooked, in burgers, meatballs, or sauces
Did you know?

"Ground turkey is often considered a healthier alternative to ground beef due to its lower fat content."

Myths vs Realities

MythMyth: Ground turkey is always healthier than ground beef.
RealityReality: While ground turkey is often lower in fat, the healthiness depends on the specific cuts and preparation methods.
MythMyth: Ground turkey thigh is dry and flavorless.
RealityReality: Ground turkey thigh is flavorful and can be juicy when cooked properly.
MythMyth: All ground turkey is the same.
RealityReality: Ground turkey can vary in fat content; thigh meat is typically richer and more flavorful than breast meat.

Healthy Recipes

Mediterranean Turkey Thigh Stuffed Peppers

These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground turkey thigh, quinoa, and Mediterranean spices, perfect for a healthy dinner.

Ingredients
  • 4 large bell peppers
  • 1 pound ground turkey thigh
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a skillet, cook the ground turkey thigh until browned, then mix in quinoa, tomatoes, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, place in a baking dish, and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Turkey Thigh and Spinach Lettuce Wraps

These fresh and crunchy lettuce wraps are filled with seasoned ground turkey thigh and spinach, making them a light yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground turkey thigh
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger
  • Butter lettuce leaves for wrapping
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat sesame oil and sauté ginger until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add ground turkey thigh and cook until browned, then stir in spinach and soy sauce until wilted.
  3. 3. Serve the mixture in butter lettuce leaves as wraps.

Spicy Turkey Thigh Chili

This hearty chili features ground turkey thigh, beans, and a blend of spices for a healthy twist on a classic comfort food.

Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground turkey thigh
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion until translucent, then add ground turkey thigh and cook until browned.
  2. 2. Stir in kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Turkey Thigh Zucchini Noodles

A low-carb dish featuring spiralized zucchini noodles topped with a savory ground turkey thigh sauce, perfect for a healthy dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground turkey thigh
  • 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, cook ground turkey thigh until browned, then add crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning.
  2. 2. Simmer for 10 minutes, then toss in spiralized zucchini and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Turkey Thigh and Sweet Potato Skillet

This one-pan meal combines ground turkey thigh with sweet potatoes and spices for a nutritious and filling dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground turkey thigh
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and add diced sweet potatoes, cooking until tender.
  2. 2. Add ground turkey thigh and bell pepper, cooking until the turkey is browned.
  3. 3. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper, and serve warm.

Turkey Thigh and Cauliflower Rice Bowl

A nutritious bowl featuring ground turkey thigh served over cauliflower rice with fresh vegetables and a tangy sauce.

Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground turkey thigh
  • 4 cups cauliflower rice
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, cook ground turkey thigh with ginger until browned.
  2. 2. Add broccoli and cook until tender, then stir in soy sauce.
  3. 3. Serve over cauliflower rice and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Turkey Thigh Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These healthy tacos are filled with seasoned ground turkey thigh and topped with a fresh avocado salsa for a delicious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground turkey thigh
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1/4 onion, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook ground turkey thigh in a skillet until browned, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix avocado, tomato, onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper to make salsa.
  3. 3. Serve turkey in tortillas topped with avocado salsa.

Turkey Thigh and Broccoli Stir-Fry

A quick and easy stir-fry featuring ground turkey thigh and fresh broccoli, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground turkey thigh
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add ground turkey thigh and cook until browned, then add broccoli and soy sauce.
  3. 3. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until broccoli is tender.

Turkey Thigh and Chickpea Salad

This refreshing salad combines ground turkey thigh with chickpeas and fresh vegetables, drizzled with a light lemon vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground turkey thigh
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook ground turkey thigh in a skillet until browned and set aside to cool.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Add the cooled turkey and mix well before serving.

Turkey Thigh and Quinoa Bowl

A wholesome bowl featuring ground turkey thigh, quinoa, and a variety of colorful vegetables, ideal for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground turkey thigh
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup spinach
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, cook ground turkey thigh until browned.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, spinach, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Top with the cooked turkey and serve warm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is ground turkey thigh healthier than ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey thigh typically has less fat and fewer calories than ground beef, making it a healthier option.

How should I store ground turkey thigh?

Store ground turkey thigh in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I use ground turkey thigh in recipes that call for ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey thigh can be used as a substitute in most recipes that call for ground beef.

What is the best way to cook ground turkey thigh?

Ground turkey thigh can be sautéed, grilled, or baked. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Does ground turkey thigh contain any allergens?

Ground turkey thigh is generally free from common allergens, but always check for cross-contamination.

How can I enhance the flavor of ground turkey thigh?

Marinating or seasoning with herbs and spices can enhance the flavor of ground turkey thigh.

Is ground turkey thigh suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, ground turkey thigh is low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets.

What are the nutritional benefits of ground turkey thigh?

Ground turkey thigh is high in protein, low in fat, and rich in essential vitamins and minerals, supporting overall health.