Aromatic Ground Turkey Stew

Name: Aromatic Ground Turkey Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 large carrots, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Home-Cooked Classics Recipes

I absolutely love cooking this Aromatic Ground Turkey Stew, especially during the cooler months. The combination of spices makes the kitchen smell heavenly, filling our home with warmth and comfort. Each bite offers a delightful mixture of flavors, as the ground turkey melds beautifully with vegetables and aromatic herbs. This hearty dish is not only satisfying but also a great way to use up any leftover veggies. It's become a go-to recipe for cozy family dinners and casual gatherings alike.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-04T15:13:27.285Z

When I first created this stew, I wanted to explore the depth of flavors that ground turkey could bring to a dish. By browning the turkey well and adding an array of spices, I discovered how vibrant and rich the dish could be. Each ingredient plays a role, from the garlic to the herbs, culminating in a bowl of warmth.

One particular tip I've found useful is allowing the stew to simmer longer to meld the flavors. If you have time, stirring in a splash of lemon juice just before serving elevates the freshness, making each bite irresistibly delightful.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Unique blend of spices that brings warmth and comfort
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
Nutritious and satisfying, perfect for a wholesome family meal

Exploring the Ingredients

The star of this stew is the ground turkey, which not only provides lean protein but also absorbs the flavors of the spices and vegetables beautifully. When selecting turkey, look for packages labeled 'lean' or 'extra-lean' to limit excess fat. If you're looking for a richer flavor, you can use ground turkey thigh instead of breast, as it tends to be juicier.

The aromatic spices play a crucial role in building the stew's enticing flavor profile. Cumin lends a warm, earthy undertone, while paprika adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant color. Dried oregano introduces a herbal note, enhancing the overall aroma. Feel free to adjust these spices to suit your palate, or consider adding a pinch of chili powder for a hint of heat.

Mastering the Cooking Process

Browning the turkey properly is essential; this step develops complex flavors. Cook the turkey in a spacious pot to ensure it browns evenly, avoiding overcrowding which can cause steaming instead. Aim for a golden-brown color, as this indicates a depth of flavor that will infuse the entire dish. If your turkey releases excess moisture, increase the heat briefly until the liquid evaporates.

When sautéing the vegetables, ensure they are cut uniformly to promote even cooking. A tip I love is to add the garlic later in the sautéing process; this prevents it from burning and turning bitter. Sauté until the vegetables are just softened, about 5-7 minutes, to preserve some of their texture in the finished stew.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This stew is an excellent candidate for meal prep; it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days. Simply allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Portion out servings in freezer-safe bags, and it will keep for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To serve, this stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice to soak up the flavorful broth. For a refreshing contrast, consider a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette. You can also customize each bowl with toppings such as avocado slices, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large carrots, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups chicken broth
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by dicing the onion, carrots, and bell pepper. Mince the garlic and set all the vegetables aside.

Brown the Turkey

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Sauté the Vegetables

Once the turkey is browned, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.

Add Spices and Tomatoes

Stir in the cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for a couple of minutes, then add the canned tomatoes and chicken broth.

Simmer the Stew

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.

Serve and Garnish

Once the stew is ready, taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your Meal!

Pro Tips

For added depth, you can incorporate a splash of red wine while cooking the turkey and vegetables. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to a month.

Ingredient Variations

This stew is quite forgiving and adaptable. If you have leftover vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, feel free to toss them in during the last few minutes of simmering. These additions not only add color but also enhance the nutritional value of the dish. Just remember, quick-cooking veggies like spinach should be added towards the end to prevent overcooking.

For a vegetarian version, swap the ground turkey for lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. Adjust the cooking time as needed, particularly with lentils, which may require a longer simmer time to fully soften and absorb the flavors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your stew comes out too thick, simply stir in a little extra chicken broth or water during the simmering phase. On the other hand, if it's too soupy, consider adding a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and cold water) towards the end to thicken it. Cook it for a few more minutes to achieve your desired consistency.

For a more intense flavor, try simmering the stew longer, up to 30 minutes, to deepen the spice notes. Just ensure to check that the turkey is cooked through and the veggies remain tender-crisp, preventing them from turning mushy.

Serving Size Adjustments

This recipe yields about four servings, making it ideal for a small family or casual gathering. If you’re scaling up for a larger crowd, simply double the ingredients and use a larger pot. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as larger batches may need a little longer for even cooking.

Conversely, if you are cooking for one or two, this stew can easily be halved. Just be sure to adjust your spice quantities accordingly, as it’s easier to scale down in spices to avoid overwhelming the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, this stew can be made a day in advance. Just reheat before serving.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add zucchini, spinach, or potatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ Is this stew gluten-free?

Absolutely! All ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef, chicken, or even plant-based protein if desired.