Turkey Divan: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish
Are you tired of the same old turkey recipes? Looking for a way to spice up your Thanksgiving leftovers? Look no further than Turkey Divan! This delectable dish is a delightful twist on the classic turkey casserole. With its creamy sauce, tender turkey, and crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite. In this article, we’ll explore the history of Turkey Divan, provide tips for making the perfect dish, and answer some frequently asked questions. So let’s dive in and discover the magic of Turkey Divan!
The History of Turkey Divan
Turkey Divan has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The dish was created by a chef at the Divan Parisien restaurant in New York City. It quickly gained popularity and became a staple on menus across the country. The original recipe called for layers of cooked turkey, broccoli, and a rich Mornay sauce made with Gruyere cheese. Over the years, different variations of the recipe emerged, with some adding additional ingredients like mushrooms or almonds. Today, Turkey Divan is a beloved classic that continues to delight taste buds.
Tips for Making the Perfect Turkey Divan
Creating a delicious Turkey Divan doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple tips, you can make a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends. Here are some pointers to keep in mind:
1. Use Moist Turkey:
For the best results, use moist and tender turkey. Leftover roasted turkey from Thanksgiving works perfectly in this recipe, but you can also use cooked turkey breast or store-bought rotisserie chicken. The key is to ensure the meat is juicy and flavorful.
2. Blanch the Broccoli:
To maintain the vibrant green color of the broccoli, blanch it before adding it to the casserole. Simply plunge the broccoli florets into boiling water for a couple of minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This will ensure the broccoli stays crisp and bright.
3. Make a Creamy Sauce:
The sauce is the star of Turkey Divan. It should be creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. You can make a classic Mornay sauce by combining butter, flour, milk, and grated cheese. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination.
4. Add a Crunchy Topping:
A crispy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful texture to the dish. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle them over the casserole before baking. The result? A golden, crispy crust that will make your taste buds dance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just as well in Turkey Divan. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the casserole.
Q: Can I make Turkey Divan gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. The result will be a delicious gluten-free version of this classic dish.
Q: Can I freeze Turkey Divan?
A: Yes, you can freeze Turkey Divan. Prepare the casserole as usual, but skip the baking step. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to Turkey Divan?
A: Absolutely! While broccoli is the traditional choice, you can get creative and add other vegetables to your liking. Some popular options include cauliflower, peas, or even spinach. Feel free to experiment and make the dish your own.
Q: Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
A: Yes, you can easily substitute chicken for turkey in this recipe. Simply use cooked chicken breast instead of turkey, and follow the rest of the recipe as directed. The result will be an equally delicious chicken Divan.
Q: How long does Turkey Divan last in the fridge?
A: Turkey Divan can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply cover it tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container. When reheating, make sure to warm it through thoroughly.
Q: Can I make Turkey Divan without cheese?
A: While cheese adds a wonderful flavor to Turkey Divan, it’s not a requirement. If you prefer a cheese-free version, simply omit the cheese from the sauce and proceed with the recipe. You’ll still have a delicious dish that’s packed with flavor.
Q: Can I use turkey gravy instead of making a sauce from scratch?
A: Absolutely! If you have leftover turkey gravy, you can use it instead of making a sauce from scratch. Simply heat the gravy and pour it over the turkey and broccoli before adding the breadcrumb topping. It will add an extra layer of deliciousness to the dish.
In Conclusion
Turkey Divan is a delightful twist on a classic dish that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With its creamy sauce, tender turkey, and crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s a dish that will have your taste buds begging for more. Whether you’re using Thanksgiving leftovers or cooking up a special meal, Turkey Divan is a recipe that’s worth trying. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of Turkey Divan unfold in your kitchen!
Turkey Divan
Ingredients
- 2 packages of frozen broccoli spears (10 ounces each)
- ¼ cup of margarine
- 6 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- ½ cup of heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons of white wine
- 3 cups of sliced cooked turkey breast
- ¼ cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
- Place broccoli in a saucepan with 4 cups of water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover the saucepan, and simmer the broccoli until tender, which should take around 5 to 8 minutes.
- Drain the broccoli.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the margarine.
- Stir in flour, salt, and pepper, ensuring that they are mixed well.
- Pour in the chicken broth and cook while stirring until the sauce thickens and starts bubbling, which should take approximately 10 minutes.
- Add the cream and wine to the sauce and stir until well-combined.
- Arrange the cooked broccoli at the bottom of a 7x12-inch baking dish.
- Pour half of the sauce over the broccoli.
- Place the sliced turkey on top of the sauce.
- Stir the Monterey Jack cheese into the remaining sauce in the saucepan.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the turkey.
- Bake the turkey divan in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until it becomes bubbly.
- Broil the dish for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese sauce turns golden.
