When it comes to cooking turkey, many people focus on the breast or the whole bird, but the drums are often overlooked. However, turkey drums, also known as turkey legs, are a delicious and versatile cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. In this article, we will explore the different methods of cooking turkey drums, including baking, grilling, frying, and slow cooking. We will also provide tips and tricks for achieving crispy skin and juicy meat.
Understanding Turkey Drums
Before we dive into the cooking methods, it’s essential to understand the anatomy of a turkey drum. A turkey drum consists of the leg and thigh, which are connected by a joint. The drum is covered in skin, which can be crispy and golden brown when cooked correctly. The meat itself is dark meat, which is higher in fat and protein than white meat.
Choosing the Right Turkey Drums
When selecting turkey drums, look for fresh or frozen drums with no visible signs of damage or discoloration. If you’re buying fresh drums, make sure they have a pleasant smell and a smooth texture. If you’re buying frozen drums, ensure they are properly packaged and have not been thawed and re-frozen.
Cooking Methods
There are several ways to cook turkey drums, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most popular methods:
Baking
Baking is a great way to cook turkey drums, especially if you’re looking for a low-maintenance method. To bake turkey drums, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the drums and pat them dry with paper towels. Season the drums with your favorite herbs and spices, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Place the drums on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Tips for Baking Turkey Drums
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the drums reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Tent the drums with foil if they start to brown too quickly.
- Let the drums rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Grilling
Grilling is a great way to add smoky flavor to your turkey drums. To grill turkey drums, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Rinse the drums and pat them dry with paper towels. Season the drums with your favorite herbs and spices, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Place the drums on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Tips for Grilling Turkey Drums
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the drums reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Brush the drums with oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Let the drums rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Frying
Frying is a great way to achieve crispy skin and juicy meat. To fry turkey drums, heat about 1/2-inch (1 cm) of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Rinse the drums and pat them dry with paper towels. Season the drums with your favorite herbs and spices, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Place the drums in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Tips for Frying Turkey Drums
- Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Do not overcrowd the skillet.
- Drain the drums on paper towels before serving.
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is a great way to cook turkey drums, especially if you’re looking for a hands-off method. To slow cook turkey drums, place the drums in a slow cooker or crock pot. Add your favorite herbs and spices, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Tips for Slow Cooking Turkey Drums
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the drums reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Add some liquid, such as chicken broth or water, to the slow cooker.
- Let the drums rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Additional Tips and Tricks
Here are some additional tips and tricks for cooking turkey drums:
- Brining: Soak the drums in a saltwater brine before cooking to add flavor and moisture.
- Marinating: Marinate the drums in your favorite sauce or seasoning before cooking to add flavor.
- Tenting: Tent the drums with foil during cooking to prevent overcooking.
- Resting: Let the drums rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Conclusion
Cooking turkey drums can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you achieve crispy skin and juicy meat. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can cook delicious turkey drums using a variety of methods. Whether you prefer baking, grilling, frying, or slow cooking, there’s a method out there for you. So next time you’re in the mood for turkey, consider cooking up some drums and enjoying the crispy, juicy goodness.
| Cooking Method | Cooking Time | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Baking | 30-40 minutes | 165°F (74°C) |
| Grilling | 5-7 minutes per side | 165°F (74°C) |
| Frying | 5-7 minutes per side | 165°F (74°C) |
| Slow Cooking | 6-8 hours or 3-4 hours | 165°F (74°C) |
By following the cooking times and internal temperatures outlined in the table above, you can ensure that your turkey drums are cooked to perfection. Happy cooking!
What is the best way to prepare turkey drums for cooking?
To prepare turkey drums for cooking, start by rinsing them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Remove any excess skin or cartilage, and season them with your desired herbs and spices. You can also marinate the turkey drums in your favorite sauce or seasoning mixture for a few hours or overnight to add extra flavor.
It’s also important to note that you can either cook the turkey drums whole or cut them into smaller pieces, depending on your desired level of crispiness and juiciness. If you want a crisper exterior, it’s best to cut them into smaller pieces, while cooking them whole will result in a juicier interior.
What is the secret to achieving a crispy exterior on turkey drums?
The secret to achieving a crispy exterior on turkey drums lies in the cooking technique. To get a crispy exterior, you need to cook the turkey drums at a high temperature, either by deep-frying or baking them in the oven. You can also try pan-frying them in a skillet with a small amount of oil to get a crispy exterior.
Another important factor in achieving a crispy exterior is to not overcrowd the cooking surface. Make sure to cook the turkey drums in batches if necessary, to ensure that they have enough room to cook evenly. You can also try dusting the turkey drums with a small amount of cornstarch or flour before cooking to help the exterior crisp up.
How do I prevent the turkey drums from drying out during cooking?
To prevent the turkey drums from drying out during cooking, it’s essential to cook them at the right temperature and for the right amount of time. Make sure to cook the turkey drums to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can also try brining the turkey drums in a saltwater solution before cooking to help retain moisture.
Another way to prevent the turkey drums from drying out is to baste them with a liquid, such as melted butter or chicken broth, during cooking. This will help keep the meat moist and add extra flavor. You can also try covering the turkey drums with foil during cooking to prevent them from drying out.
Can I cook turkey drums in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook turkey drums in a slow cooker. In fact, slow cooking is a great way to cook turkey drums because it allows for low and slow cooking, which helps to retain moisture and flavor. Simply season the turkey drums with your desired herbs and spices, place them in the slow cooker, and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
One of the benefits of cooking turkey drums in a slow cooker is that it’s a hands-off cooking method, which means you can set it and forget it. You can also try adding some liquid, such as chicken broth or barbecue sauce, to the slow cooker to add extra flavor and moisture.
How do I know when the turkey drums are cooked to perfection?
To know when the turkey drums are cooked to perfection, you need to check the internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey drums, which should be at least 165°F (74°C). You can also check for visual cues, such as a golden-brown color and a crispy exterior.
Another way to check if the turkey drums are cooked to perfection is to check the juices. When you cut into the turkey drum, the juices should run clear. If the juices are pink or red, the turkey drum may not be cooked to perfection. You can also try checking the texture, which should be tender and juicy.
Can I cook turkey drums ahead of time and reheat them later?
Yes, you can cook turkey drums ahead of time and reheat them later. In fact, cooking turkey drums ahead of time can be a great way to save time and effort. Simply cook the turkey drums as desired, let them cool, and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to reheat.
When reheating the turkey drums, make sure to heat them to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can reheat them in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop. You can also try adding some liquid, such as chicken broth or barbecue sauce, to the turkey drums during reheating to add extra moisture and flavor.
What are some popular seasonings and sauces to use on turkey drums?
There are many popular seasonings and sauces to use on turkey drums, depending on your desired flavor profile. Some popular options include garlic and herbs, such as thyme and rosemary, which add a savory and aromatic flavor. You can also try using spicy seasonings, such as cayenne pepper or paprika, to add a bold and spicy flavor.
Other popular options include barbecue sauce, which adds a sweet and tangy flavor, and honey mustard, which adds a sweet and savory flavor. You can also try using Asian-inspired seasonings, such as soy sauce and ginger, to add a sweet and savory flavor. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite seasonings and sauces.