Turkey with Olives

Turkey with Olives Recipe from Romania

Region / culture: Romania | Servings: - 4

Introduction

Turkey with olives is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender turkey meat with the briny taste of olives. This recipe is a perfect option for a hearty and satisfying meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

Turkey with olives is a traditional dish that has been enjoyed for generations in Mediterranean countries such as Turkey, Greece, and Italy. The combination of tender turkey meat and salty olives creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that is loved by many.

Ingredients

6 turkey portions (breast, thighs, etc.)
4 tbsp oil
7 oz / 200 g black olives
1 tbsp tomato sauce
1 tsp flour
3 onions
1 tsp vinegar or 0.5 cup wine
1 lump sugar
salt
1 bay leaf

How to prepare

Fry the turkey pieces in 2 tbsp of oil, then add 3 – 4 tbsp of water and simmer.
Occasionally turn the pieces, adding 2 – 3 tbsp of water.
When the meat is halfway cooked, add the washed and pricked ingredients.
In a separate pan, fry the chopped onion in two tablespoons of oil until it turns yellow.
Add the flour and let it fry a little longer, then add a cup of turkey broth or water, tomato sauce, salt, sugar, bay leaf, and wine or vinegar.
Pour this sauce over the meat and let it boil until the meat is fully cooked.
You can serve this dish either warm or cold.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor.
Use green olives instead of black olives for a different taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the turkey pieces before simmering to lock in the flavor.

- Be sure to use a good quality olive oil for the best taste.

- Adjust the amount of olives to suit your personal taste preferences.

- Serve with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of rice or crusty bread.

- Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or oregano.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the turkey pieces in a flavorful sauce to ensure they are tender and juicy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken thighs or breasts instead of turkey for a different twist.

- Substitute red wine vinegar for the wine in the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the turkey with olives on a platter garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250 per serving

Carbohydrates

5g per serving

Fats

12g per serving

Proteins

25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in Vitamin A, Iron, and Potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains olives and may not be suitable for those with olive allergies.

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious option for a balanced diet.

Summary

Turkey with olives is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a family meal or special occasion. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a tasty and satisfying dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a hot summer day and I was visiting my friend Maria, who had just returned from a trip to Turkey. She had brought back with her a small, leather-bound cookbook filled with traditional Turkish recipes. As she flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a recipe for Turkey with Olives.

I had never tried a dish like this before, but something about the combination of tender turkey and briny olives intrigued me. Maria noticed my interest and offered to show me how to make it. We spent the afternoon in her kitchen, chopping vegetables, marinating the turkey, and simmering it all together in a savory broth.

As the aroma of garlic and spices filled the air, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. The flavors were bold and complex, yet the dish itself was surprisingly easy to make. Maria explained that this was a common dish in Turkish households, often served at family gatherings and celebrations.

I couldn't wait to share this recipe with my own family. I made it for dinner that night and it was a hit. My husband and children couldn't get enough of the tender, flavorful turkey and the burst of briny olives in every bite. From that day on, Turkey with Olives became a staple in our household.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times, each time adding my own twist or variation. I have swapped out the olives for capers, added a touch of lemon zest for brightness, or simmered it with a splash of white wine for a more elegant touch. But no matter how I choose to make it, the essence of the dish remains the same – comforting, delicious, and deeply satisfying.

I have shared this recipe with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who have asked for a taste after catching a whiff of it cooking in my kitchen. Each time, I am met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I am always happy to oblige, passing on the tradition of Turkey with Olives to anyone who is willing to try their hand at it.

As I reflect on the origins of this recipe, I am reminded of the power of food to connect us to different cultures and traditions. Through a simple dish of turkey and olives, I have been able to experience a taste of Turkey, a country rich in history and culinary treasures. I am grateful for the friendships and memories that have been forged over a shared love of good food and good company.

So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, looking for a new recipe to try, I urge you to give Turkey with Olives a chance. Let the flavors transport you to a bustling Turkish market or a cozy family dinner table. Embrace the simplicity and the richness of this dish, and savor every bite as if it were a taste of a far-off land. And who knows, perhaps you too will be inspired to pass on this recipe, creating new traditions and memories for generations to come.