What To Know
- Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, tailgating at a game, or simply looking for a flavorful weeknight dinner, grilled turkey legs are sure to impress.
- If you prefer a more evenly cooked leg, use indirect heat by placing the legs on one side of the grill and the coals on the other.
- For a smoky flavor, use wood chips soaked in water and placed in a smoker box on your grill.
Grilling turkey legs is a delicious and crowd-pleasing way to enjoy this versatile protein. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, tailgating at a game, or simply looking for a flavorful weeknight dinner, grilled turkey legs are sure to impress. But mastering the art of how to grill turkey legs requires a few key techniques to ensure they come out juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor.
Choosing the Right Turkey Legs
The first step to grilling perfect turkey legs is selecting the right ones. Here’s what to look for:
- Size: Opt for turkey legs that are about 1-1.5 pounds each. This size will provide a good amount of meat and cook evenly.
- Freshness: Look for turkey legs that are firm to the touch and have a light pink color. Avoid any legs that have a strong odor or discoloration.
- Skin: The skin should be intact and free of tears or punctures. This will help to retain moisture during cooking.
Prepping the Turkey Legs
Once you have your turkey legs, it’s time to prep them for grilling. Here’s a simple yet effective method:
1. Rinse and Pat Dry: Rinse the turkey legs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Seasoning: Season the turkey legs generously with your favorite grill rub. Some popular options include:
- Simple Salt and Pepper: A classic combination that always delivers.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, paprika, and chili powder.
- Citrus: Add a zest of lemon or orange for a bright and tangy flavor.
3. Brine (Optional): Brining the turkey legs in a salt and water solution for several hours can help to enhance their moisture and flavor.
Grilling Techniques
Now it’s time to put your grilling skills to the test! Here are some techniques to ensure perfectly grilled turkey legs:
- Direct Heat: For a crispy skin and juicy interior, grill the turkey legs over direct medium heat (around 350-400°F).
- Indirect Heat: If you prefer a more evenly cooked leg, use indirect heat by placing the legs on one side of the grill and the coals on the other.
- Temperature Control: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey legs. They are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Grilling Time: The grilling time will vary depending on the size of the legs and the heat of your grill. Expect to grill for about 45-60 minutes for 1-1.5 pound legs.
Adding Flavor and Versatility
While simple salt and pepper can be delicious, there are many ways to elevate your grilled turkey legs:
- Glazes: Apply a sweet and savory glaze during the last 15-20 minutes of grilling. Honey, maple syrup, barbecue sauce, and brown sugar are popular glaze ingredients.
- Smoke: For a smoky flavor, use wood chips soaked in water and placed in a smoker box on your grill. Hickory, mesquite, and apple wood are popular choices.
- Side Dishes: Complement your grilled turkey legs with classic barbecue sides like coleslaw, potato salad, corn on the cob, and baked beans.
Beyond the Grill: Creative Turkey Leg Recipes
Grilled turkey legs are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas:
- Turkey Leg Tacos: Shred the cooked turkey meat and serve it in tortillas with your favorite toppings, such as salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
- Turkey Leg Soup: Use the leftover turkey meat to make a hearty and flavorful soup.
- Turkey Leg Sandwiches: Slice the cooked turkey meat and serve it on toasted bread with your favorite condiments.
The Grand Finale: Serving and Enjoying
Once your turkey legs are cooked to perfection, let them rest for 5-10 minutes before carving and serving. You can also use a pair of tongs to lift the legs and place them on a platter.
FAQs
Q: How do I know if my turkey legs are cooked through?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the leg. They are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Q: Can I grill turkey legs on a gas grill?
A: Absolutely! Gas grills are great for grilling turkey legs. Just make sure to adjust the heat settings to achieve the desired temperature.
Q: What are some tips for preventing dry turkey legs?
A: Brining the turkey legs before grilling can help to retain moisture. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure the legs are cooked to the correct temperature.
Q: How long can I store leftover grilled turkey legs?
A: Leftover grilled turkey legs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Q: Can I freeze grilled turkey legs?
A: Yes, you can freeze grilled turkey legs for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
The Final Word: A Feast for the Senses
Mastering the art of how to grill turkey legs is a journey of flavor and culinary creativity. With a little practice and these tips, you’ll be creating juicy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dishes that are sure to impress. So, fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of perfectly grilled turkey legs!
