Thanksgiving is a time of feasting and giving thanks, and one of the centerpieces of the holiday meal is the turkey. However, after the big day, many of us are left with a surplus of leftover turkey. Instead of the same old turkey sandwiches, why not try something new and delicious? This recipe for turkey à la king is a fantastic way to transform those leftovers into a mouthwatering meal.
Turkey à la king is a classic dish that combines tender turkey pieces with a rich and creamy sauce. It's a one - skillet wonder that can be served over puff pastry rounds, toast, or biscuits, making it a versatile and satisfying dinner option. Let's dive into the details of this wonderful recipe.
First, gather your ingredients. You'll need about 2 cups of cooked turkey, cut into bite - sized pieces. For the sauce, you'll require 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of all - purpose flour, 1 cup of chicken broth, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1/4 cup of sherry (optional but adds a wonderful depth of flavor), 1/2 cup of frozen peas, 1/2 cup of diced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup of diced pimientos, and salt and pepper to taste.
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk it constantly for about 2 minutes. This creates a roux, which is the base of the creamy sauce. The roux should be a light golden color and have a smooth texture. As you whisk, you'll notice it thickening slightly.
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously. This step is crucial to prevent lumps from forming in the sauce. Keep whisking until the broth is fully incorporated and the sauce starts to thicken. Then, add the heavy cream and sherry (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the liquid ingredients.
Next, add the frozen peas, diced red bell pepper, and diced pimientos to the sauce. These colorful vegetables not only add a pop of color to the dish but also a fresh and vibrant flavor. Let the vegetables cook in the sauce for about 5 minutes, or until they are tender.
Now, it's time to add the cooked turkey pieces to the skillet. Gently stir the turkey into the sauce and vegetables, making sure that each piece is coated with the creamy goodness. Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Let the turkey heat through in the sauce for a few more minutes.
Once the turkey à la king is ready, it's time to serve. You can place a puff pastry round on a plate and spoon the turkey mixture over it. The puff pastry adds a flaky and buttery element to the dish. If you don't have puff pastry, toast or biscuits work just as well. They soak up the delicious sauce and provide a great contrast to the tender turkey and vegetables.
This turkey à la king recipe is not only a great way to use up leftover turkey but also a delicious and elegant meal that the whole family will enjoy. It's easy to make, and you can customize it by adding other vegetables or spices according to your taste. So, the next time you have leftover Thanksgiving turkey, don't hesitate to give this recipe a try.
Whether you're hosting a small family dinner or just looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, turkey à la king is a winner. It brings a touch of sophistication to the table while using ingredients that you probably already have on hand. So, roll up your sleeves, head to the kitchen, and create this wonderful dish that will surely become a new favorite in your household.
Moreover, this recipe can also be a great way to introduce new flavors to your family. The combination of the creamy sauce, tender turkey, and colorful vegetables is both visually appealing and delicious. You can even get the kids involved in the cooking process. They can help with chopping the vegetables or stirring the sauce, which makes it a fun and educational activity for the whole family.
In conclusion, turkey à la king is a must - try recipe for anyone with leftover Thanksgiving turkey. It's a creative, delicious, and easy - to - make dish that will elevate your post - holiday meals. So, go ahead and give it a go, and enjoy a scrumptious dinner that will leave you feeling satisfied and thankful all over again.