Turkey gizzards are an underappreciated and often discarded part of the bird. However, when prepared properly, they make a tasty, nutritious addition to many dishes Pickling turkey gizzards is easy, allowing you to enjoy their unique texture and flavor year-round In this article, I’ll walk you through an easy pickled turkey gizzards recipe your whole family is sure to love.
Let’s start with a quick overview of what exactly turkey gizzards are Gizzards are a part of the digestive system found near the liver They are pouches filled with strong muscles that help grind up food as it passes through the bird’s digestive tract,
While many people discard them gizzards are entirely edible and full of nutrients. They are an excellent source of protein iron, zinc and B vitamins. Gizzards have a rich, earthy flavor and a pleasantly chewy texture when cooked properly.
Why Pickle Turkey Gizzards?
Pickling is one of the best ways to prepare turkey gizzards. The brine helps soften and tenderize the meat, while also infusing it with lots of flavor. It allows you to preserve gizzards to enjoy for weeks after Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
Pickled gizzards make fantastic additions to salads, sandwiches, cheese plates and more. They also hold up nicely on their own as a protein-packed snack. The brine gives them a tangy zip that perfectly balances their dense, mineral-y flavor.
Pickling also allows you to put those gizzards to use that might otherwise go to waste. It’s a thrifty way to get more mileage from your turkey and make sure no part of it goes uneaten.
Ingredients Needed
Pickling turkey gizzards requires just a few simple ingredients:
- 2 lbs turkey gizzards, cleaned
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 Tbsp whole black peppercorns
- 1 Tbsp coriander seeds
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
You’ll also need quart-sized jars with lids for storing your pickled gizzards. Canning jars work perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s walk through the process of pickling those gizzards:
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Clean the gizzards. Rinse the gizzards under cold water and trim off any fat or membranes still attached. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels.
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Make the brine. In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, salt, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, coriander and mustard seeds. Bring to a boil over high heat.
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Pack the jars. Divide the gizzards evenly between two clean, warm quart-sized jars. Pour the hot brine over the gizzards, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
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Seal the jars. Wipe the rims clean, then place the lids on top and screw on the rings just until fingertip tight.
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Process the jars. Carefully place the sealed jars in a canning pot or multicooker filled with a rack and 2 inches of simmering water. Process for 90 minutes adjusting for your altitude if needed.
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Cool and store. Turn off the heat and use canning tongs to carefully transfer the jars to a cooling rack. Leave them undisturbed for 24 hours. Check the seals, then store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
And that’s it! In just a few easy steps, you’ll have delicious pickled turkey gizzards to enjoy anytime.
Serving Your Pickled Turkey Gizzards
Now comes the best part – eating them! Here are some tasty ways to serve up your pickled gizzards:
- Chop and add them to potato, pasta or grain salads for a protein punch
- Slice and pile onto sandwiches and burgers
- Set out a jar as an appetizer with crackers and cheese
- Skewer for hearty game day snacks
- Dice and add to omelets, pizza and casseroles
- Puree and fold into dips, spreads or pâtés
They also make unique additions to a charcuterie board or hearty snack platter. Get creative with how you use them! The brine makes them endlessly versatile.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re new to working with gizzards, you probably have a few questions. Here are some quick answers to common FAQs about pickling turkey gizzards:
Do I really need to process the jars?
Yes! Processing the sealed jars in boiling water is vital to kill any bacteria and ensure your gizzards stay safe to eat for a full year.
How long do pickled gizzards last?
Properly processed jars that have sealed can be stored for up to 1 year. Once opened, store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
What’s the best way to clean gizzards?
Rinse well under cool water while rubbing off any fat or membranes. Pat them very dry before pickling. Any moisture left on the gizzards may prevent the brine from penetrating fully.
Can I adjust the brine ingredients?
Absolutely! Swap out the vinegar, spices, and aromatics for flavors you enjoy. Just maintain the same brine strength by using 1 cup vinegar, 1 cup water and 1/4 cup salt per 2 pounds gizzards.
Why do my jars need headspace?
Leaving 1/2 inch of empty space at the top allows room for the food to expand as it pickles. Too little headspace may cause lids to unseal or break.
Enjoy Your Homemade Pickled Turkey Gizzards
With this easy recipe, you can transform turkey gizzards from forgettable to fantastic. Turn that often discarded bird part into a delicious snack or addition to recipes. Feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your tastes.
Be sure to share your creatively used pickled gizzards on social media. You may just inspire someone else to start putting their gizzards to use! Enjoy this thrifty way to reduce food waste and get more out of your holiday bird.
