After Thanksgiving dinner, many Latino families in the United States face the same question: what to do with all the leftover turkey? Instead of reheating the same dish over and over again, there are practical, inexpensive and delicious ways to transform it into new recipes with a Latin twist.
Here we share with you several useful options to take advantage of every part of the turkey without wasting anything.
1. Mexican-style turkey tacos
One of the easiest and quickest ways to use leftover turkey is to turn it into tacos.
How to prepare them:
Shred turkey and sauté with onion, garlic, cumin and chili powder or chipotle.
Add a little broth (can be from the turkey itself) to give it moisture.
Serve in corn tortillas with cilantro, chopped onion, lime and your favorite salsa.
This dish is ideal for large families and for those who want a quick option during the week.
2. Central American style turkey soup or turkey broth
The cold weather after Thanksgiving makes a hot soup perfect.
Basic preparation:
Boil the turkey bones to make a homemade stock.
Add vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, chayote and corn.
Stir in shredded turkey meat and season with cilantro, oregano and salt.
This recipe is economical, yields a lot and allows you to use parts of the turkey that would normally be discarded.
3. Rice with turkey, inspired by the classic arroz con pollo.
Rice with turkey is a perfect variation of the traditional arroz con pollo, very popular in Caribbean and South American countries.
Preparation:
Sauté onion, bell pepper, garlic and tomato.
Add uncooked rice, Latin seasoning, achiote and turkey broth.
Stir in turkey pieces and cook over low heat until rice is fluffy.
It is a perfect dish to “stretch” the meal and turn it into enough portions for several days.
4. Turkey Enchiladas
Enchiladas are always a lifesaver when there are leftover meats.
How to make them:
Mix the shredded turkey with cream or cream cheese.
Fill corn tortillas and bathe them with green or red sauce.
Cover with grated cheese and bake until gratin.
You can serve them with lettuce, radishes and cream for a traditional touch.
5. Empanadas or turkey pastries
For an easy option to freeze or take to work, empanadas are ideal.
Suggested filling:
Shredded turkey
Sofrito of onion, tomato and garlic
A touch of cumin and coriander
Optional: potato or chopped carrot
You can fry them or prepare them in the oven for a lighter option.
6. Caribbean-style turkey croquettes
A classic recipe in homes in Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic and Cuba.
Preparation:
Mix the shredded turkey with mashed potatoes and seasoning.
Form croquettes, dip them in egg and bread crumbs.
Fry in hot oil until golden brown.
Perfect as an appetizer or for a simple meal.
7. Latin-style turkey sandwiches
A quick option for the next day.
Ideas:
Cuban turkey sandwich (with cheese, pickles and mustard).
Mexican torta with turkey, avocado and jalapeños.
Hot “midnight” type sandwich with melted cheese.
Making the most of the turkey is saving, and saving is part of the Latin tradition.
For Hispanic families in the U.S., Thanksgiving doesn’t end on Thursday: it continues in the form of creative recipes that make the most of every last bit of turkey.
With these options, you not only avoid wasting food, but also transform leftovers into delicious, economical dishes full of cultural identity. Now you know what to do with turkey leftovers.
Filed under: What to do with turkey leftovers
