The aroma of cooking ground turkey teriyaki fills the kitchen with a blend of sweet and savory scents, making it hard to resist. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a busy weeknight, and I was searching for a quick and satisfying meal. As I sautéed the turkey and vegetables, I felt a comforting sense of home. This recipe is special because it combines simple ingredients and steps to create a delicious meal that everyone can enjoy. It’s not just food; it’s a way to bring loved ones around the table and create moments together.
why make this recipe
Ground Turkey Teriyaki is an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner. It’s quick to prepare, healthy, and packed with flavor. Using ground turkey makes it leaner than traditional teriyaki, while the veggies add crunch and nutrients. Plus, the homemade teriyaki sauce gives you control over the ingredients, making it a healthier option compared to store-bought versions. This dish is versatile and can be served in various ways, catering to different tastes — a real winner in any kitchen!
how to make Ground Turkey Teriyaki
Ingredients:
- ½ cup coconut aminos (or low sodium soy sauce)
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons coconut sugar
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot + 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- ½ cup diced onion
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- Pinch of salt, for cooking
- 1 green onion, sliced (optional for garnish)
Directions:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the coconut aminos, water, coconut sugar, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and garlic. Heat until the sauce begins to simmer.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Slowly add this mixture to the saucepan and simmer until it thickens, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook for another 4-5 minutes until it starts turning brown.
- Add the broccoli and shredded carrots; stir to combine. Cook until the vegetables are soft and the turkey is no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
- Pour in the sauce and stir until everything is evenly coated. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with sliced green onion if desired. Serve warm over vegetables, in lettuce wraps, or with rice for delicious Ground Turkey Teriyaki bowls.
how to serve Ground Turkey Teriyaki
Ground Turkey Teriyaki is versatile and can be served in different ways. You can serve it over a bed of rice for a hearty meal, in lettuce wraps for a light option, or alongside steamed vegetables for a nutritious addition. Top with sliced green onions for extra flavor and color.
how to store Ground Turkey Teriyaki
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. To reheat, thaw if frozen, and warm it in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
tips to make Ground Turkey Teriyaki
- For extra flavor, marinate the ground turkey for about 30 minutes in the sauce before cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or water chestnuts for more crunch.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
variation
You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time as necessary for different meats. Additionally, swap vegetables based on what you have on hand — this recipe is pretty flexible!
FAQs
Can I use regular soy sauce instead of coconut aminos?
Yes, you can use regular soy sauce, but be mindful of the sodium content, as it may be saltier.
Is this dish gluten-free?
If you use coconut aminos, this dish is gluten-free. Regular soy sauce contains gluten, so check for gluten-free versions if needed.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the teriyaki sauce and chop the vegetables in advance. Just cook everything together when you’re ready to enjoy the meal.
Ground Turkey Teriyaki
Ingredients
Method
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the coconut aminos, water, coconut sugar, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and garlic. Heat until the sauce begins to simmer.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water until fully dissolved. Slowly add this mixture to the saucepan and simmer until thickened, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook for another 4-5 minutes until it starts turning brown.
- Add broccoli and shredded carrots; stir to combine. Cook until the vegetables are soft and turkey is no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
- Pour in the sauce and stir until everything is evenly coated. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with sliced green onion if desired. Serve warm over vegetables, in lettuce wraps, or with rice.
