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Salted Turkey Shank
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Salted Turkey Shank

Meleagris gallopavo

Clinical Encyclopedia

Salted turkey shank is a flavorful cut of meat that is often used in various culinary dishes. It is rich in protein and essential nutrients, making it a popular choice for hearty meals.

Also known as:
Turkey LegTurkey Drumstick
Scientific NameMeleagris gallopavo
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories250 kcal
Water
60%
Fiber0g
Total44.0g
Protein
30g(68%)
Fats
14g(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)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.2 mg (15%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)11 mg (69%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)1 mg (20%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.5 mg (38%)
Vitamin B121 mcg (42%)
Choline60 mg (11%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Folate: 5 mcg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Iron1.5 mg (8%)
Magnesium25 mg (6%)
Phosphorus200 mg (29%)
Potassium300 mg (6%)
Zinc2 mg (18%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Manganese0.1 mg (5%)
Selenium20 mcg (36%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Calcium: 15 mg

Health Benefits

High in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Contains important vitamins and minerals that support overall health.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!High sodium content due to the salting process; individuals with hypertension should consume in moderation.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best prepared by slow cooking or braising to enhance flavor and tenderness.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose turkey shanks that are firm and have a rich color without any off odors.

How to Store

Store in the refrigerator and consume within a week, or freeze for longer storage.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

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

Medicinal Properties
Rich in protein, supports muscle health, and provides essential nutrients.
Main Applications
Used in soups and stews for added flavor
Can be roasted or grilled for main dishes
Bioactive Compounds
Creatine

Supports muscle energy and performance.

Taurine

May help in muscle recovery and cardiovascular health.

How to Consume
Cooked, Braised, Grilled
Did you know?

"Turkey shank is often used in traditional dishes during festive seasons, especially in North America."

Myths vs Realities

MythSalted meats are unhealthy.
RealityWhile high sodium can be a concern, salted meats can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
MythTurkey is only for Thanksgiving.
RealityTurkey can be enjoyed year-round in various dishes.
MythAll turkey meat is dry.
RealityWhen cooked properly, turkey can be very moist and flavorful.

Healthy Recipes

Herb-Crusted Salted Turkey Shank

A flavorful herb-crusted turkey shank that is baked to perfection, served with a side of steamed vegetables for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 salted turkey shank
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. Rub the turkey shank with olive oil, then coat it with rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Place the shank in a baking dish and surround it with mixed vegetables. Bake for 1.5 hours or until the turkey is tender.

Spicy Turkey Shank Tacos

Delicious tacos filled with shredded salted turkey shank, topped with fresh salsa and avocado for a healthy twist.

Ingredients
  • 2 salted turkey shanks
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook the turkey shanks in a slow cooker with chili powder and cumin for 6 hours on low until tender.
  2. 2. Shred the turkey and warm the tortillas in a skillet.
  3. 3. Assemble the tacos by adding shredded turkey, tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Salted Turkey Shank and Quinoa Salad

A nutritious salad combining shredded turkey shank with quinoa, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lemon dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 salted turkey shank
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook quinoa in water according to package instructions and let cool.
  2. 2. Shred the cooked turkey shank and mix it with quinoa, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
  3. 3. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then drizzle over the salad and toss to combine.

Mediterranean Salted Turkey Shank Bowl

A vibrant bowl featuring salted turkey shank, brown rice, and Mediterranean vegetables for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 salted turkey shank
  • 1 cup brown rice
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook brown rice in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
  2. 2. Shred the turkey shank and mix it with cooked rice, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta.
  3. 3. Drizzle with olive oil before serving.

Salted Turkey Shank Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring salted turkey shank, colorful vegetables, and a savory sauce.

Ingredients
  • 1 salted turkey shank
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
  1. 1. Shred the cooked turkey shank and set aside.
  2. 2. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil and sauté ginger and garlic until fragrant.
  3. 3. Add vegetables and stir-fry for 5 minutes, then add turkey and soy sauce, cooking until heated through.

Salted Turkey Shank Soup

A hearty and comforting soup made with salted turkey shank, vegetables, and herbs, perfect for chilly days.

Ingredients
  • 1 salted turkey shank
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, combine turkey shank, broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and thyme.
  2. 2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours.
  3. 3. Remove the turkey, shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Salted Turkey Shank with Sweet Potato Mash

A deliciously comforting dish featuring roasted salted turkey shank served alongside creamy sweet potato mash.

Ingredients
  • 1 salted turkey shank
  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and rub the turkey shank with olive oil.
  2. 2. Roast the turkey shank for 1.5 hours or until tender.
  3. 3. Boil sweet potatoes until soft, then mash with butter, salt, and pepper. Serve alongside the turkey.

Salted Turkey Shank and Veggie Wraps

Healthy wraps filled with shredded salted turkey shank and fresh veggies, perfect for a quick lunch or snack.

Ingredients
  • 1 salted turkey shank
  • 4 whole grain wraps
  • 1 cup spinach
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1/2 cup hummus
Instructions
  1. 1. Shred the cooked turkey shank and set aside.
  2. 2. Spread hummus on each wrap, then layer with spinach, cucumber, carrot, and shredded turkey.
  3. 3. Roll tightly and slice in half to serve.

Salted Turkey Shank and Lentil Stew

A hearty stew packed with protein-rich lentils and tender salted turkey shank, perfect for a filling meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 salted turkey shank
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, combine turkey shank, lentils, broth, onion, carrots, garlic, and cumin.
  2. 2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours.
  3. 3. Remove the turkey, shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Salted Turkey Shank and Cauliflower Rice Bowl

A low-carb bowl featuring shredded salted turkey shank served over cauliflower rice with fresh herbs.

Ingredients
  • 1 salted turkey shank
  • 1 head cauliflower, grated into rice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook the turkey shank until tender and shred the meat.
  2. 2. Sauté grated cauliflower in olive oil for 5-7 minutes until tender.
  3. 3. Serve shredded turkey over cauliflower rice, topped with cherry tomatoes and parsley.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is salted turkey shank healthy?

In moderation, it can be part of a healthy diet due to its high protein content, but watch for sodium levels.

How should I cook a salted turkey shank?

Slow cooking or braising is recommended to ensure tenderness and flavor.

Can I eat salted turkey shank if I have high blood pressure?

It's advisable to limit intake due to high sodium content.

What are the nutritional benefits of turkey shank?

It is rich in protein, vitamins B6 and B12, and minerals like phosphorus and selenium.

How long can I store salted turkey shank?

It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for several months.

What dishes can I make with salted turkey shank?

It can be used in soups, stews, or served as a main dish with sides.

Is it safe to eat turkey shank bones?

No, turkey bones can splinter and pose a choking hazard.

Can I use salted turkey shank in a recipe that calls for fresh turkey?

Yes, but adjust the salt in the recipe accordingly.