If you're looking for a tasty cut of turkey that's packed with protein and low in calories, consider trying turkey back meat. With just 52 calories per serving, it's a great option for health-conscious cooks. Turkey back meat comes from the fryer-roaster part of the bird and is a lean, meaty cut that's perfect for grilling, baking, or roasting.
Not only is turkey back meat a low-calorie option, but it's also a great source of protein, with each serving containing 11 grams. Additionally, it's low in fat and high in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.
In this article, we'll explore the benefits of turkey back meat, how to cook it, and some delicious recipes you can try at home.
What is Turkey Back Meat?
Turkey back meat refers to the meat that's found on the back of the bird, specifically the fryer-roaster part. It's a relatively lean cut of meat that's usually boneless and skinless. While it may not be as well-known or popular as breast or thigh meat, turkey back meat is a versatile and flavorful option that can be used in a wide range of recipes.
Calorie Count for Turkey Back Meat
Each serving of turkey back meat contains just 52 calories, making it a great choice for those who are watching their calorie intake. This low-calorie count also makes it an ideal option for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Protein Content in Turkey Back Meat
Not only is turkey back meat low in calories, but it's also a great source of protein. Each serving contains 11 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to add more protein to their diet.
Fat Content in Turkey Back Meat
One of the great things about turkey back meat is that it's naturally low in fat. Each serving contains just 1 gram of fat, which makes it a great option for those who are looking for a lean cut of meat that won't add too much fat to their diet.
Vitamin and Mineral Content in Turkey Back Meat
Turkey back meat is also a good source of vitamins and minerals. It contains significant amounts of niacin, vitamin B6, and selenium, as well as smaller amounts of other essential vitamins and minerals.
Nutritional Benefits of Turkey Back Meat
Overall, turkey back meat is a nutritious and delicious option for anyone who wants to incorporate more lean meat into their diet. Its low calorie and fat content make it a great choice for those who are watching their weight, while its high protein content makes it ideal for those who want to build and maintain lean muscle mass. Additionally, turkey back meat contains several important vitamins and minerals, which can help support overall health and well-being.
How to Cook Turkey Back Meat
Turkey back meat can be cooked using a variety of methods, depending on your preferences and the recipe you are following. Some popular methods include grilling, baking, and roasting. If you are grilling or roasting the meat, it's a good idea to marinate it first to help keep it moist and flavorful. You can use a store-bought marinade or make your own by combining olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs and spices. When cooking turkey back meat, it's important to monitor its internal temperature to ensure that it's fully cooked. The USDA recommends cooking turkey to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Recipes that Use Turkey Back Meat
There are countless recipes that use turkey back meat, from soups and stews to stir-fries and salads. Here are a few delicious and healthy recipes to get you started:
- Turkey Back Meat Stir-Fry with Broccoli and Carrots
- Turkey Back Meat and Vegetable Soup
- Turkey Back Meat and Quinoa Salad
- Turkey Back Meat Tacos with Avocado and Salsa
Alternate Uses for Turkey Back Meat
While turkey back meat is a great choice for traditional turkey dishes like Thanksgiving dinner, it can also be used in a variety of other recipes. Here are a few alternate uses for turkey back meat:
- Turkey Back Meat Burgers
- Turkey Back Meat Meatballs
- Turkey Back Meat Chili
- Turkey Back Meat Fajitas
Tips for Buying and Storing Turkey Back Meat
When buying turkey back meat, look for packages that are labeled as fresh, rather than frozen. Fresh turkey back meat will be more tender and flavorful than frozen meat. If you do buy frozen turkey back meat, be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking. This will help ensure that it cooks evenly and stays moist and flavorful. Once cooked, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze cooked turkey back meat for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Back Meat
1. How many calories are in 1 unit of turkey back meat?
There are 52 calories in 1 unit of turkey back meat, which is equivalent to 1 lb of ready-to-cook turkey.
2. What part of the turkey is considered the back meat?
The back meat comes from the fryer-roaster part of the turkey, which includes the back, wings, and breast of the bird.
3. How can turkey back meat be prepared?
Turkey back meat can be roasted, baked, grilled, or sautéed. It can also be used as an ingredient in soups, stews, and casseroles.
4. Is turkey back meat a healthy protein source?
Yes, turkey back meat is a lean source of protein that is low in fat and calories, but high in essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
5. Can turkey back meat be substituted for other types of meat?
Yes, turkey back meat can be substituted for chicken or other types of poultry in recipes. It can also be used as a healthier alternative to red meat in dishes such as tacos or burgers.