Slow Cooked Turkey Legs with BBQ Sauce Recipe

If you are craving something truly hearty and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Slow Cooked Turkey Legs with BBQ Sauce recipe. Tender turkey legs simmer gently until they fall off the bone, soaked in a rich, smoky BBQ sauce that brings out the natural sweetness and depth of the meat. Made with natural ingredients and enhanced by smoked turkey bacon for an authentic smoky richness, this dish is perfect for leisurely weekends, family meals, or anytime you want comfort food elevated to the next level. Get ready to savor every bite of this flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Smoky Flavor: Smoked turkey bacon adds a deep, savory essence that complements the turkey legs perfectly.
• Fall-Off-The-Bone Tenderness: Slow cooking guarantees juicy, tender meat that practically melts in your mouth.
• Simple Natural Ingredients: Uses easy-to-find, wholesome staples that bring out the best flavors.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Ideal for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or meal prep that impresses.
• Comfort Food with a Healthy Twist: Protein-rich turkey legs slow simmered with nutritious spices and sauces.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating slow cooked turkey legs with BBQ sauce that are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. From the turkey legs themselves to the smoky turkey bacon and the carefully crafted BBQ sauce, these simple yet essential items will bring your dish to the next level.

• Turkey legs: The star of the dish, providing hearty meat with great texture.
• Smoked turkey bacon: Adds smoky depth and richness for a fantastic flavor boost.
• Tomato paste (natural): Creates a tangy, thick base for the BBQ sauce that clings to the meat.
• Apple cider vinegar (natural): Lends a bright acidity that balances the sweetness of the sauce.
• Brown sugar (natural): Provides a mild sweetness that caramelizes during cooking.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural): Adds umami complexity and savory notes.
• Smoked paprika (natural): Enhances smokiness and adds subtle heat.
• Garlic powder (natural): Delivers warm, savory aroma and flavor.
• Onion powder (natural): Contributes mellow sharpness perfect for BBQ flavor.
• Black pepper: Gives a mild kick and seasoning balance.
• Natural gelling agent: Ensures the sauce thickens beautifully without artificial additives.
• Water or low sodium vegetable broth: Used to adjust sauce consistency.

Variations for Slow Cooked Turkey Legs with BBQ Sauce

Feel free to customize this Slow Cooked Turkey Legs with BBQ Sauce recipe to suit your taste preferences, dietary needs, or the ingredients you have on hand. The flexibility makes it perfect for experimenting while keeping things delicious.

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder for a bolder, spicier BBQ sauce.
• Smoky and Sweet: Mix in a little pure maple syrup (natural) or date syrup for a richer sweetness.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh thyme or rosemary to add aromatic depth.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute turkey legs with smoked tofu or jackfruit and use mushroom broth for umami richness.
• Fruit-Infused Sauce: Blend in some mashed pineapple or mashed apple for a tropical hint and natural sweetness.

How to Make Slow Cooked Turkey Legs with BBQ Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Legs and Smoked Turkey Bacon

Start by rinsing the turkey legs under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Cut the smoked turkey bacon into small pieces that will render their smoky flavor throughout the slow cooked dish. This preparation ensures your meat is clean and ready to absorb all the BBQ goodness.

Step 2: Make Your BBQ Sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, combine tomato paste (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), brown sugar (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), smoked paprika (natural), garlic powder (natural), onion powder (natural), black pepper, and a splash of water or vegetable broth. Stir well until the natural gelling agent dissolves and the sauce is smooth and thick.

Step 3: Layer Ingredients Into Your Slow Cooker

Place the turkey legs at the bottom of the slow cooker pot and sprinkle smoked turkey bacon evenly over the top. Pour the prepared BBQ sauce over everything, ensuring the legs are well coated. This layering allows the turkey to soak up the smoky and tangy flavors during slow cooking.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or until the turkey legs are falling off the bone and tender. Check periodically to make sure there is enough moisture; add a bit of water or broth if the sauce becomes too thick.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey legs. If desired, thicken the sauce further by gently simmering it in a saucepan or blending it for a smoother texture. Serve the sauce over the turkey legs for a rich finish.

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooked Turkey Legs with BBQ Sauce

• Use Quality Meats: Choosing fresh turkey legs and premium smoked turkey bacon elevates the flavor profoundly.
• Don’t Skip the Rest: Let the cooked turkey legs rest for 10 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: Control the thickness of your BBQ sauce by adjusting the amount of natural gelling agent or broth.
• Low and Slow is Key: Slow cooking at a low temperature ensures tender, juicy meat every time.
• Prep Ahead: Assemble everything the night before to save time on busy days.

How to Serve Slow Cooked Turkey Legs with BBQ Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro adds a vibrant touch and a pop of color, while thinly sliced green onions provide a subtle crunch and flavor contrast to the rich BBQ sauce.

Side Dishes

Pair these succulent turkey legs with creamy mashed potatoes (plant-based), roasted seasonal vegetables, or a fresh coleslaw made with crunchy cabbage and tangy dressing to balance the smoky richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve turkey legs on a large wooden board with sauce in a rustic bowl for a family-style meal, or shred the meat and use it for BBQ sandwiches with plant-based cheese and crisp lettuce for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover turkey legs and BBQ sauce in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the sauce separate if you plan to store meat and sauce differently.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked turkey legs along with the BBQ sauce in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for convenience.

Reheating

Reheat slowly on the stovetop or in a low oven with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Microwave reheating works too but cover the dish to keep it juicy.

FAQs

Can I use turkey thighs instead of turkey legs?

Absolutely! Turkey thighs also have great flavor and tenderness that work wonderfully with slow cooking and BBQ sauce.

Is it necessary to use smoked turkey bacon?

Using smoked turkey bacon adds a unique smoky depth, but if unavailable, a quality smoked turkey slice can be a great substitute.

Can I make the BBQ sauce in advance?

Yes, the BBQ sauce can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before cooking.

What’s a good side dish for this recipe?

Creamy mashed potatoes (plant-based), roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad complement Slow Cooked Turkey Legs with BBQ Sauce perfectly.

How long does the slow cooking process take?

Cooking on low heat generally takes about 6 to 8 hours to achieve tender, fall-off-the-bone turkey legs with rich, infused flavors.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly satisfying about Slow Cooked Turkey Legs with BBQ Sauce that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This recipe is easy, packed with natural flavors, and perfect for impressing loved ones or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal. Give it a try and savor the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness paired with that rich, smoky BBQ sauce that you will want to make again and again!

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