10 Delicious Ways to Cook and Use Turkey Tails

Turkey tails are an often overlooked and discarded part of the bird. But these flavorful, fatty nuggets of dark meat have a lot of culinary potential. So what should you do with those turkey tails? Here are 10 tasty ways to make use of this underappreciated cut.

What Exactly Are Turkey Tails?

Turkey tails are the tailbone of the turkey, attached to a small piece of rich, dark meat. They are typically removed and discarded during processing. However, turkey tails have a history in Southern and Pacific Islander cuisine where they are considered a delicacy.

The meat on the tail is fattier than breast meat. This gives turkey tails a distinctive tender and juicy texture when cooked. The skin also crisps up very nicely. Overall, turkey tails offer a unique and indulgent eating experience.

Simple Ways to Cook Turkey Tails

Here are some easy cooking methods to try with turkey tails:

• Boiling – Gently simmer in seasoned water until tender, Shred for soups or sandwiches

• Roasting – Roast at 400°F to crisp the skin while keeping meat moist.

• Frying – Coat in flour or panko breadcrumbs and fry until golden and crispy.

• Smoking – Rub with spices and brown sugar and smoke for 2-3 hours. Chop up for tacos or sandwiches.

• Braising – Braise in broth until fall-off-the-bone tender then use braising liquid as gravy

• Grilling – Grill over indirect heat, basting with barbecue sauce to caramelize.

• Sous vide – Vacuum seal seasoned tails and cook at 165°F for 10-12 hours until extremely tender.

The key is to cook turkey tails low and slow using moist heat to break down the collagen into succulent, fork-tender meat.

Creative Ways to Use Turkey Tails

Beyond just cooking turkey tails, here are some unique ways to utilize them:

• Make turkey tail sliders by grinding the meat into burgers.

• Chop and add to casseroles, soups, tacos, sandwiches, etc.

• Stuff peppers or squash with turkey tail meat and vegetables.

• Use in place of pork in dishes like ham and beans or hoppin’ john.

• Simmer into bean chili for extra richness.

• Mix with veggies and sauce for turkey tail stir fry.

• Grind dried tails into a savory, umami seasoning powder.

• Simmer tails into stock then pick off any leftover meat.

With their bold flavor and fat content, turkey tails can add richness, moisture and heartiness to all kinds of dishes.

Tips for Preparing and Cooking Turkey Tails

Follow these tips for handling and cooking turkey tails:

• Remove any remaining feather shafts or quills.

• Remove the oil gland on the underside before cooking.

• Rinse tails and pat dry before seasoning or marinating.

• Allow a salt-based marinade to penetrate 1-4 hours before cooking.

• Season the outside with spices, herbs or dry rub before cooking.

• Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.

• Chop or shred the tender cooked meat from the bones.

• Discard any unconsumed turkey tails within 3-4 days.

Health Benefits of Turkey Tails

While high in fat and calories, turkey tails do offer some nutritional value:

• Rich in zinc, iron, magnesium and potassium.

• Source of B vitamins including riboflavin, folate and pantothenic acid.

• Contains immunity boosting selenium.

• Provides protein including the amino acid tryptophan.

While they shouldn’t be eaten in excess, enjoying turkey tails occasionally provides benefits.

Serving Suggestions for Turkey Tails

Here are some recommended ways to serve up tasty turkey tails:

• On top of Southern greens like collard, mustard or turnip greens.

• Mixed into a pot of ham and beans or black-eyed peas.

• Chopped over creamy cheese grits or polenta.

• In gumbo, chili or thick turkey noodle soup.

• On top of cooked rice, beans or mashed potatoes.

• In a smoked turkey tail sandwich with slaw and barbecue sauce.

• Diced up in a turkey or chicken pot pie.

• As a unique pizza topping instead of pepperoni or sausage.

Turkeys tails pair especially well with classic Southern flavors and sides. But feel free to get creative!

Common Questions About Turkey Tails

Are turkey tails healthy?

Turkey tails are high in fat and cholesterol but do contain some valuable nutrients. Enjoying them in moderation is fine as an occasional treat.

Can you eat turkey tails raw?

No, turkey tails should always be thoroughly cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to eliminate bacteria that could cause foodborne illness.

How long do cooked turkey tails last?

Cooked turkey tails will keep 3-4 days refrigerated. Reheat fully before consuming leftovers. Discard any turkey tails that have been sitting out more than 2 hours.

What’s the best way to cook turkey tails?

There’s no single best cooking method. Smoking and deep frying are popular options. Braising, grilling, roasting and sautéing also work well. The key is using moist heat at lower temperatures.

Why do people eat turkey tails?

The fatty, flavorful dark meat on the tails takes well to long, moist cooking methods. When prepared properly, turkey tails offer a uniquely tender, juicy and rich eating experience.

Make the Most of Those Tasty Turkey Tails

Now that you know the many delicious ways to cook and utilize this underrated cut, don’t let those turkey tails go to waste! With their versatility, bold flavor and tender texture, they can elevate all kinds of dishes. Experience their savory, satisfying potential.