Dont let those leftover turkey parts go to waste! Instead of tossing out the necks, bones, and giblets, transform them into a mouthwatering broth that will not only elevate your soups but also bring joy to your furry friends. Bone broth is not only packed with flavor, but it also boasts a myriad of health benefits.
Turkey bone broth is great for soup recipes for humans and provides a delightful treat for our pets, as it can be added to their meals to encourage them to stay hydrated and to add a delicious taste to their regular meals (especially kibble). I use it in my recipes instead of water.
Many bone broth recipes have salt, onions, and garlic added to the recipe. I make turkey bone broth without these added so that my pets can enjoy it, too. Instead, I add salt, onions, and garlic when I use the bone broth stock in my soup recipes. Its a win-win!
In this blog post, well show you how to create a pet-friendly version of this nutrient-rich elixir, and you will be reducing food waste at the same time. Get ready to unleash your culinary creativity and nourish both yourself and your pets with a delicious and sustainable solution!
Making your own turkey stock at home is a great way to use up leftover turkey bones and scraps after the holidays. Not only is homemade stock tastier and healthier than store-bought versions, but it’s also super easy to make in an instant pot or electric pressure cooker. In just an hour or two, you can have quarts of rich, flavorful turkey broth ready for soups, stews, gravies and more!
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make amazing turkey stock in your instant pot with just a few simple ingredients.
Benefits of Making Homemade Turkey Stock
Before diving into the recipe let’s look at why making your own turkey stock is so worthwhile
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Superior flavor – Homemade stock tastes infinitely better than canned or boxed stocks The fresh ingredients and long simmer time allow you to extract maximum turkey essence,
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More nutrients – Bone broth made at home contains minerals like calcium, magnesium and phosphorus that can be beneficial for health. Store-bought broths lack these.
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Collagen and gelatin – Simmering turkey bones releases collagen and gelatin that gives the stock a rich mouthfeel and nutritional boost.
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Aromatics – Onions, carrots, celery and herbs infuse the broth with aromatic depth. Commercial broths often lack veggies.
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Thickens sauces – The gelatin extracted from bones helps thicken and add body to gravies, sauces and stews.
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Economical – You can make quarts of stock for pennies on the dollar compared to store-bought. Plus it reduces food waste!
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More control – You choose whether to add salt, seasonings or leave it neutral. Customize it to your taste.
Clearly, homemade turkey stock is worth the minimal effort. Now let’s get cooking!
Ingredients Needed
Turkey stock is made by simmering leftover turkey bones and scraps with vegetables, herbs and water. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 leftover turkey carcass or 2 lbs turkey parts like wings, legs or neck
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, smashed
- 10 cups water
- Herbs like thyme, parsley or bay leaf (optional)
- Salt and pepper (optional)
The turkey carcass, bones and scraps provide the flavor and gelatin. Feel free to supplement with extra wings, legs or neck bones if needed. Aromatic vegetables, herbs and salt enhance and round out the flavors.
Step-By-Step Instant Pot Turkey Stock Directions
Now that you’ve gathered the ingredients, here are the simple steps for making stock in an instant pot:
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Roughly chop the onion, carrots and celery into large chunks. Smash the garlic cloves.
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Place the turkey carcass, bones, chopped veggies and garlic into the instant pot.
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Pour 10 cups of water over the ingredients, or enough to cover them.
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Add any dried herbs, peppercorns, salt or seasonings (optional).
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Secure the lid on the instant pot. Make sure the pressure valve is in the sealing position.
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Select the Pressure Cook or Manual button and set the time to 60 minutes.
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When cooking is complete, use the quick release method to vent the steam and open the pot.
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Remove the carcass and strain the liquid through a mesh sieve. Discard solids.
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Let the stock cool slightly. Refrigerate until the fat solidifies, then skim it off the top.
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Use the turkey stock within 4 days, or store in the freezer for up to 6 months.
That’s all there is to it! In an hour you’ll have quarts of flavorful, gelatinous turkey stock using scraps you’d normally throw away.
Tips for the Best Instant Pot Turkey Stock
Use these tips and tricks to make the tastiest, most nutritious turkey stock possible:
- Roast bones/veg at 400F first for deeper flavor
- Add wine, vinegar or lemon juice to help draw out minerals
- Skim off impurities that rise during simmering
- Let cool and refrigerate to solidify fat for removal
- Avoid stirring or agitating the stock as it cooks
- Strain well through cheesecloth to remove sediment
- Keep salt low until finishing recipe to keep versatility
Flavor Variations
Once you master basic turkey stock, mix things up by adding different herbs and aromatics:
- Rosemary and thyme – Classic Mediterranean flavors
- Jalapeño and cumin – For a Southwestern kick
- Ginger and lemongrass – For an Asian twist
- Mushrooms – Earthy, savory flavor
- Bay leaves and peppercorns – Warm, subtle spice
- Parsley and dill – Fresh, bright herb flavor
The options are endless! Adjust them to match what you intend to use the stock for.
Uses for Instant Pot Turkey Stock
Homemade turkey stock is a versatile ingredient for so many dishes:
- Turkey noodle soup
- Savory pot pies or casseroles
- Risottos and rice pilafs
- Thanksgiving stuffing
- Gravy and pan sauces
- Braised chicken, pork or vegetables
- Any recipe calling for chicken broth
Having your own turkey stock on hand lets you quickly start soups, braises, rice dishes and more with an automatic flavor boost. It really maximizes the value of your holiday bird!
Storing Turkey Stock
Properly storing your turkey stock ensures it lasts as long as possible:
- Let cool completely before refrigerating
- Store in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days
- Freeze for 4-6 months in quart or gallon bags
- Leave 1 inch of space in jars before freezing to prevent cracking
- Portion into ice cube trays for small amounts needed
Follow these tips and your homemade turkey stock will be on hand whenever you need a flavor boost!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common turkey stock questions:
How long does it take to make stock in an instant pot?
Around 60 minutes is ideal, including time for pressure to build and be released. Much faster than stovetop!
What setting do I use on an instant pot?
The Manual or Pressure Cook button. Set to high pressure for 60 minutes.
Is roasted or raw turkey better?
Roasted bones add more flavor. Raw bones contribute more gelatin. Using a mix is ideal.
Can I use a whole turkey carcass?
Absolutely! This is the best way to maximize flavor and nutrients.
Should I add salt while cooking?
It’s better to add salt only after straining the finished stock, so you control the seasoning.
How do I store and freeze stock?
Let cool fully, portion into jars or bags. Leave 1 inch headspace if freezing. Fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for 4-6 months.
What should I use the stock for?
Soups, stews, braises, stuffing, rice/risotto, gravy – anything calling for broth or water!
Conclusion
Instant pot/Pressure Cooker turkey bone broth recipe
Add the turkey carcass, turkey neck, giblets, carrots, celery, water, and apple cider vinegar to a large stock pot or slow cooker and cover with 1 inch of water. I prefer an 8-quart pot as 6 quarts is too small for the carcass. If necessary, break up the turkey carcass so everything fits in the pot.
Cook on high pressure for 2 hours. Allow a natural release.
Remove the large pieces of the turkey carcass from the pot with tongs. Strain broth with a fine mesh strainer.
Bone Broth stock benefits
Bone broth has been cherished for centuries for its nourishing properties, and its no different for our pets. This golden elixir is packed with essential nutrients that contribute to optimal pet health. It provides hydration, supports joint health, aids digestion, promotes a healthy coat, boosts the immune system, and even helps alleviate inflammation. Its truly a gift that keeps on giving!