Did you know that 1 unit of cooked, roasted turkey skin from a young tom turkey yields 135 calories? That's right! While most people discard the turkey skin after cooking, it can actually be enjoyed as a delicious and nutritious snack. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the nutritional value and health benefits of cooked turkey skin, and explore some ways to incorporate it into your diet.

Apart from calories, cooked turkey skin is also packed with protein, fat, and various vitamins and minerals. A 100-gram serving of turkey skin contains about 20 grams of protein, 28 grams of fat, and significant amounts of vitamin A, iron, and zinc. While some people may be wary of the high fat content, it's important to note that not all fats are bad for us - in fact, the monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in turkey skin can actually help lower bad cholesterol levels.

Now that we know a little more about the nutritional value of turkey skin, let's explore some ways to incorporate it into our diet for maximum health benefits.

Calories in Cooked Turkey Skin

As we mentioned earlier, 1 unit of cooked, roasted turkey skin yields 135 calories. This may seem like a lot, but it's important to remember that everything should be consumed in moderation. If you're watching your calorie intake, try to limit your consumption of turkey skin to once or twice a week.

Protein in Cooked Turkey Skin

Turkey skin is also a great source of protein, which is essential for repairing and building tissues in the body. A 100-gram serving of turkey skin contains about 20 grams of protein, which is roughly 40% of the daily recommended intake for adults. This makes it an excellent snack option for people who are trying to build muscle or maintain a healthy weight.

Fat Content in Cooked Turkey Skin

While turkey skin is high in fat, not all of it is bad for us. In fact, the monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats found in turkey skin can have a positive impact on our health by lowering bad cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease. However, it's important to enjoy turkey skin in moderation, as too much fat can still lead to weight gain and other health concerns.

Carbohydrate Content in Cooked Turkey Skin

Cooked turkey skin is virtually carb-free, which makes it a great snack option for people who are following low-carb or keto diets. However, it's important to remember that not all carbs are bad for us - complex carbohydrates found in whole grains and vegetables can provide us with energy and essential nutrients.

Vitamins and Minerals in Cooked Turkey Skin

Apart from protein and fat, cooked turkey skin also contains significant amounts of vitamin A, iron, and zinc. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy eyesight and skin, while iron is important for transporting oxygen in the blood. Zinc, on the other hand, is crucial for boosting our immune system and promoting healthy growth and development.

Health Benefits of Cooked Turkey Skin

Thanks to its high protein and healthy fat content, cooked turkey skin can offer several health benefits for those who consume it in moderation. Some of these benefits include lowering bad cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease, promoting healthy muscle growth, and boosting our immune system.

Ways to Include Cooked Turkey Skin in Your Diet

If you're looking to incorporate cooked turkey skin into your diet, there are several ways to do so. One simple option is to enjoy it as a snack by roasting it in the oven until it's crispy and golden brown. You can also use it as a topping for salads or soups, or add it to sandwiches and wraps for a protein boost. Another great way to enjoy turkey skin is by making crispy turkey skin chips. Simply cut the skin into small pieces, season with your favorite spices, and bake in the oven until crispy.

Precautions While Consuming Cooked Turkey Skin

While cooked turkey skin can offer several health benefits, it's important to consume it in moderation and with caution. Too much fat can still lead to weight gain and other health concerns, so try to limit your intake to once or twice a week. You should also make sure to cook the skin thoroughly to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.

How to Store Cooked Turkey Skin

If you have leftover cooked turkey skin, make sure to store it properly to prevent spoilage. The skin can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 6 months. To freeze, simply wrap the skin in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Other Uses of Cooked Turkey Skin

Apart from being a tasty snack, cooked turkey skin can also be used for other purposes in the kitchen. For example, you can use it to add flavor and moisture to roasted meats, or use it as a substitute for bacon in recipes. The possibilities are endless!