How Long To Cook Turkey Necks On Stove

So, there I was, standing in my kitchen, staring at a bag of turkey necks like it was a mysterious artifact from an ancient civilization. I mean, who doesn't love a good mystery, right? But this one was giving me a serious case of the 'how long to cook' blues. I've cooked a turkey or two in my time, but the necks? They were a whole different ball game.

Now, I know what you're thinking, "Why not just throw them in the oven or the slow cooker like you would with the rest of the bird?" Well, friend, today we're talking stove-top. We're talking pots and pans, sizzle and steam. We're talking hands-on, up-close, and personal. So, grab your apron, let's dive in.

Why Turkey Necks, You Ask?

First things first, why are we even cooking turkey necks? Well, aside from being a delicious and affordable cut, they're packed with collagen, which breaks down into gelatin when cooked. This makes them perfect for adding depth of flavor and body to soups, stews, and gravies. Plus, they're great for making stock. But enough about why, let's get back to the how long part.

Prep Time: A Quick Chat

Before we get to the cooking part, let's talk prep. You'll want to rinse your turkey necks under cold water and trim any excess fat or skin. Some people like to blanch them first to remove any impurities, but that's up to you. Now, are we ready to get cooking?

Cooking Time: The Great Reveal

Alright, here's where the magic happens. You've got your turkey necks, your pot, and your stove. You've heated up a little oil, added your necks, and now you're wondering, "How long do I let these bad boys cook?"

The short answer? It depends. The long answer? Let's break it down.

How to Cook Turkey Necks on the Stove for Maximum Flavor – THEKITCHENTODAY

Boiling: The Quick Route

If you're looking for a quick cook time, boiling is your friend. It'll take about 45 minutes to an hour to cook your turkey necks through. But remember, quick doesn't always mean best. Boiling can make your necks tough and the flavor can be a bit... one-note.

Simmering: The Slow and Steady Route

Now, if you've got the time, simmering is the way to go. This is where you'll get the most flavor out of your turkey necks. It can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the size of your necks and your simmering temperature. The lower and slower, the better, really.

Here's a little tip: If you're making stock, add your vegetables and herbs about an hour before the end of cooking. This way, they'll have enough time to infuse their flavors into your stock without overcooking and turning bitter.

How Long to Bake Turkey Necks at 400 Degrees Fahrenheit for Tender

Checking for Doneness: The Pinch Test

So, how do you know when your turkey necks are done? The best way is the pinch test. Carefully remove one from the pot (be careful, it's hot!) and let it cool for a bit. Then, give it a squeeze. If it's tender and the meat comes apart easily, it's done. If it's still tough, give it some more time.

Storage: What to Do with the Leftovers

Alright, so you've cooked your turkey necks to perfection. Now what? Well, if you're not using them right away, you can store them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Or, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before popping them in the freezer.

And there you have it, folks. The mystery of the turkey necks, solved. Now, go forth and cook. Your stock (and your taste buds) will thank you.