Indulge in a Hearty Keto Meal: Instant Pot Turkey Necks with Gravy
For those following a keto diet, finding satisfying meals that fit within your macros can sometimes be a challenge. But with this Keto Instant Pot Turkey Necks with Gravy recipe, you can enjoy a comforting, protein-rich dinner that’s not only low in carbs but also packed with flavor. Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned pro, this dish is a perfect addition to your meal plan.
When you think of turkey, Thanksgiving might come to mind, but turkey necks are a year-round delicacy that deserve more attention. They’re economical, flavorful, and when cooked correctly, incredibly tender. The Instant Pot makes cooking these cuts of meat a breeze, locking in moisture and infusing the spices deep into the flesh. Plus, the accompanying gravy is a creamy, luxurious sauce that’s low in carbs but high on taste, making it the perfect complement to the turkey.
A Keto Recipe with Deep Roots and Rich Flavors
The tradition of cooking turkey necks runs deep in many cultures, often seen simmering in pots for hours to extract their rich flavors. This keto-friendly version of the classic dish brings all that savory goodness into a low-carb context. The use of spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder not only provides depth to the dish but also offers health benefits like anti-inflammatory properties.
Olive oil is used to sear the meat, adding a dose of healthy fats that are a cornerstone of the keto diet. The almond flour in the gravy offers a low-carb thickening alternative to traditional wheat flour, keeping the dish within keto guidelines. The high-fat content from the butter and heavy cream not only enriches the gravy but also helps you meet your daily fat intake necessary for maintaining ketosis.
Each serving of this dish is a testament to the balance one can achieve on a keto diet—ample protein, a moderate amount of high-quality fats, and minimal carbs. It’s a meal that satisfies without the guilt, providing essential nutrients while keeping you on track with your keto goals.
Mastering the Method for Perfect Keto Instant Pot Turkey Necks
Creating this dish in the Instant Pot is straightforward, but a few chef’s tips can elevate it from good to great. When searing the turkey necks, ensure the oil is hot enough to create a beautiful golden-brown crust. This not only adds flavor but also helps to seal in the juices. Don’t rush this step; good things come to those who wait.
When deglazing the pot with chicken broth and water, be thorough. Those browned bits at the bottom are packed with flavor and are key to a rich, savory gravy. And speaking of gravy, patience is your friend. Allow it to simmer and thicken to your liking. If it’s too thin, a little extra almond flour can work wonders.
Finally, the natural pressure release is crucial for tender meat. Quick releasing the pressure can shock the meat fibers, resulting in a tougher chew. Let the Instant Pot do its magic slowly, and you’ll be rewarded with fork-tender turkey necks that practically melt in your mouth.
Variations to Spice Up Your Keto Turkey Necks
Herb-Infused Turkey Necks
For an aromatic twist, consider adding a bouquet garni to the pot before cooking. A combination of fresh thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves can infuse the meat with herbal notes that complement the richness of the gravy.
Spicy Keto Turkey Necks
If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños with the other seasonings. The capsaicin in the peppers not only adds spice but also can boost your metabolism, which is a plus for those on a keto diet.
Mushroom Gravy Turkey Necks
For an umami-packed gravy, sauté sliced mushrooms in the Instant Pot before adding the butter and almond flour. The mushrooms add a meaty texture and deep flavor that pairs beautifully with the turkey.
Substitutions for Keto Instant Pot Turkey Necks
While this recipe is designed to be keto-friendly, some may have dietary restrictions or preferences that require substitutions. For instance, if you’re avoiding dairy, ghee can replace butter, and coconut cream can take the place of heavy cream, still providing the necessary fats without lactose.
For those allergic to nuts, coconut flour can be a suitable alternative to almond flour for thickening the gravy. Start with a smaller amount, as coconut flour is more absorbent than almond flour.
And if you’re looking to reduce sodium intake, opt for a low-sodium chicken broth and adjust the added salt accordingly. The key is to balance the flavors without compromising your dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the turkey necks in advance and reheat them when ready to serve. The gravy can also be made ahead and may thicken upon cooling; simply reheat and add a bit of broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the texture of the meat and gravy.
Can I use frozen turkey necks?
Yes, but for best results, thaw them completely before cooking. This ensures even seasoning and searing.
Is this recipe suitable for other cuts of meat?
Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted for chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even pork neck bones. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make the gravy thicker?
If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can add more almond flour or allow the gravy to simmer and reduce further after the cooking process.
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Keto Instant Pot Turkey Necks with Gravy
Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 2 pounds turkey necks approx. 900g
- 1 tablespoon olive oil 15ml
- 1 teaspoon salt 5g
- ½ teaspoon black pepper 2.5g
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder 1g
- ½ teaspoon onion powder 1g
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika 0.5g
- 1 cup chicken broth preferably low-sodium, 240ml
- ½ cup water 120ml
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 15ml
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 30g
- 2 tablespoons almond flour 16g
- ¼ cup heavy cream 60ml
Instructions
- Begin by patting the turkey necks dry with paper towels. This will help the seasonings adhere better and ensure a nice sear.
- In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle the seasoning mix all over the turkey necks to coat them evenly.
- Turn the Instant Pot to the sauté setting and heat the olive oil. Once hot, add the turkey necks and sear them on all sides until they develop a golden-brown crust, about 3-4 minutes per side. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Remove the turkey necks and set aside. Pour in the chicken broth and water, using a wooden spoon to deglaze the pot by scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, then return the turkey necks to the pot, nestling them into the liquid.
- Secure the lid of the Instant Pot, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes.
- Once the cooking time has elapsed, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
- Carefully remove the turkey necks from the Instant Pot and set aside, keeping them warm.
- To make the gravy, set the Instant Pot back to the sauté setting. Add the butter and allow it to melt. Whisk in the almond flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light brown color.
- Gradually whisk in the cooking liquid left in the pot, ensuring there are no lumps. Stir in the heavy cream and continue to cook until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
- Serve the turkey necks with the gravy poured over the top or on the side for dipping.
