Leftover Turkey Carnitas Recipe

Name: Leftover Turkey Carnitas Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 0
Cuisine: American

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By AprilPublished Aug 8, 2023

Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, indulging in a scrumptious feast.

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Prep: 5 min
Cook: 1 hr 15 min
Total: 1 hr 20 min
Servings: 0

Method

In a snugly fitting pot, combine turkey meat (with bones if available), orange, onion, and bay leaf.
Add enough water to cover halfway.
Cover the pot and bring it to a boil.
Reduce the heat to a bare simmer and cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the turkey is tender and easily falls off the bone.
Remove and discard the orange, onion, and bay leaves.
Drain the turkey well and shred it, discarding any bones.
Heat oil or fat in a cast iron or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
Add the shredded turkey to the skillet, spreading it into an even layer.
Cook the turkey without moving it for about 5 minutes, until it is well browned and crisp on the bottom.
Stir the turkey to incorporate the crisp bits and introduce new soft bits to the bottom of the skillet.
Repeat this process until the turkey is as crisp as desired.
Season the turkey with salt.

About this recipe

Leftover Turkey Carnitas: A Delicious Twist on Thanksgiving Leftovers

Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, indulging in a scrumptious feast. But what happens when the leftovers start piling up? Don't let that delicious turkey go to waste! With a little creativity, you can transform those leftovers into a mouthwatering dish that will have your taste buds dancing.

Why Settle for Bland Turkey Sandwiches?

Instead of settling for the same old turkey sandwich, why not give your leftovers a Mexican twist? Enter leftover turkey carnitas, a flavorful and versatile dish that will make your taste buds sing with joy. Carnitas, a traditional Mexican dish made with slow-cooked pork, can easily be adapted to incorporate leftover turkey.

By taking your leftover turkey and simmering it in a flavorful broth with aromatic spices, you'll infuse it with a delicious blend of flavors. The slow-cooking process allows the turkey to become tender and succulent, absorbing all the savory goodness of the broth.

Spicing Things Up: A Flavorful Adventure

One of the beauties of leftover turkey carnitas is that you can customize the flavors to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a mild, tangy, or spicy kick, you have the freedom to experiment and create a dish that is uniquely yours.

Adding a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro can brighten up the flavors and give your turkey carnitas a refreshing twist. If you're a fan of heat, a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapenos will bring the spice to the next level. The possibilities are endless!

Versatility at Its Finest

Leftover turkey carnitas is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it on warm tortillas with your favorite toppings and a squeeze of lime for a delicious taco night. Or, use it as a filling for enchiladas, quesadillas, or even a flavorful Mexican-inspired salad.

Not only does this dish offer a delightful burst of flavors, but it also allows you to repurpose your leftovers in a creative and exciting way. It's a win-win situation!

In Conclusion

Don't let your Thanksgiving leftovers go to waste. Transform them into a delectable dish that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. Leftover turkey carnitas offers a flavorful twist on traditional leftovers, allowing you to savor the taste of Mexico in every bite.

Get creative, customize the flavors to suit your taste, and enjoy this versatile dish in various ways. From tacos to enchiladas, the possibilities are endless. So, gather your leftover turkey, fire up the stove, and let the delicious aroma of turkey carnitas fill your kitchen.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use any type of leftover turkey for this recipe?: Yes, you can use any type of leftover turkey, whether it's white meat, dark meat, or a combination of both. The key is to shred the turkey into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
. How long does it take to make leftover turkey carnitas?: The cooking time for leftover turkey carnitas can vary depending on the amount of turkey and the cooking method used. Generally, it takes around 2-3 hours to achieve tender and flavorful carnitas.
. Can I make leftover turkey carnitas in advance?: Absolutely! Leftover turkey carnitas can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the carnitas in a skillet or microwave when you're ready to enjoy them.
. What can I serve with leftover turkey carnitas?: Leftover turkey carnitas pairs well with various side dishes such as Mexican rice, refried beans, guacamole, and salsa. It's a complete meal that will satisfy your cravings for a Mexican fiesta!
. Can I freeze leftover turkey carnitas?: Yes, you can freeze leftover turkey carnitas for future use. Place the carnitas in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
. Can I use this recipe with leftover chicken instead?: Definitely! This recipe can be adapted to use leftover chicken as well. Simply substitute the leftover turkey with shredded chicken and follow the same cooking instructions.
. Is leftover turkey carnitas a healthy dish?: Leftover turkey carnitas can be a healthy option, especially if you choose lean cuts of turkey and use minimal oil for cooking. Load up on fresh toppings and serve with whole grain tortillas for a nutritious and delicious meal.
. Can I add vegetables to leftover turkey carnitas?: Absolutely! Adding vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or corn can enhance the flavors and provide additional texture to your leftover turkey carnitas. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations.