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There is something about this time of year that pulls me right back into the kitchen. The Texas heat finally lets up, the kids come in from outside with that first cool-weather glow, and I start craving the slow, cozy rhythm of cooking from scratch for our family of six.
This Golden Turkey Stock is the secret to elevating all of the savory dishes in my Thanksgiving ebook. It gives recipes a rich and luxurious roasted flavor without having to bother with an entire turkey. It’s also versatile and will make a great addition to your menu any day of the year.
I roast the turkey wings until they are deep golden brown, tuck everything into the Instant Pot, and let it do the work while I tend to the rest of the house. Then I strain it and pour it into my favorite glass jars, and just like that my fridge is ready for the week.
Why You’ll Love This Turkey Stock
- Rich, roasted flavor without roasting a whole turkey
- Simple ingredients you probably already have on hand
- Hands-off cooking in the Instant Pot
- Makes about 8 cups
- The perfect base for homemade gravy, dressing and soups
- Freezer friendly in small portions
Roasting is where all the flavor comes from, so don’t rush it!
Golden Turkey Stock
Ingredients
- 3 pounds turkey wings 2 wings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 4 large carrots chopped
- 2 heads garlic halved
- 1 large yellow onion chopped
- ½ bunch celery chopped
- A few sprigs of herbs like thyme, oregano, or marjoram, and/or a bay leaf
- 10 cups water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450°F.
- Toss the turkey wings with olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Roast for 1.5 hours until golden brown.
- Transfer the roasted wings to an Instant Pot along with the carrots, garlic, onion, celery, and herbs. Add 10 cups of water.
- Pressure cook for 2 hours and allow it to slow release.
- Strain the stock before using.
Tips for the Perfect Turkey Stock
- Enhance flavor with herbs: Thyme, oregano, and marjoram give a deliciously earthy flavor. You can mix and match based on your preference.
- Don’t skip roasting: Roasting caramelizes the turkey wings, adding richness and depth.
How to Store It
- Storage tip: Freeze your turkey stock in ice cube trays or silicone molds for easy use in small amounts. Perfect for adding a punch of flavor to sauces or sautés.
- Making it for Thanksgiving? Prepare the Golden Turkey Stock 1 day before and store it in the refrigerator.
Ways to Use It
- Gravy: My homemade gravy starts with 2 cups of this Golden Turkey Stock. For the best flavor, use homemade stock. It’s not only healthier but also allows you to control the salt and other seasonings.
- Dressing: It goes right into my Thanksgiving dressing.
- Sauces and sautés: Pop out a frozen cube whenever a pan needs a punch of flavor.
- Any day of the year: Soups and cozy weeknight dinners all season long.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to roast the turkey wings first?
Don’t skip it! Roasting caramelizes the turkey wings, adding richness and depth, and gives the stock its golden color.
Do I need a whole turkey?
No. This stock gives you a rich, roasted flavor without having to bother with an entire turkey. You only need 3 pounds of turkey wings (2 wings).
Which herbs should I use?
A few sprigs of thyme, oregano, or marjoram, and/or a bay leaf. Mix and match based on your preference.
How much does this make?
About 8 cups.
Can I make it ahead for Thanksgiving?
Yes. Prepare it 1 day before and store it in the refrigerator.
How do I freeze it?
Freeze it in ice cube trays or silicone molds for easy use in small amounts.
Want the Whole Thanksgiving Menu?
This stock is page 32 of my Thanksgiving ebook, A Taste of the Season, a menu for your family gatherings. It’s the base for the gravy and dressing inside, and the ebook walks you through the whole meal with a make-ahead timeline so the big day feels calm and joyful. You can grab it here: A Taste of the Season.
With love,
Tere
