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Leftover Turkey Tacos First Image

Turkey Carnitas


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  • Author: Chef John
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: None

Description

A delicious recipe for turkey carnitas using leftover turkey, spices, and fresh ingredients.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons light brown sugar (divided)
  • 2 cups leftover turkey (white or dark meat)
  • 1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice (about 1/2 of a large orange)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
  • 1 white onion (sliced into 1 inch half moons)
  • 6 flour tortillas
  • 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons cotija cheese

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine the paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and 1 tsp of brown sugar.
  2. Slice or shred the leftover turkey meat and place it in a medium sized mixing bowl. Add the orange juice and seasoning mixture. Mix until combined.
  3. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the seasoned turkey and sliced onion. Simmer, covered, for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Turkey meat should be soft and tender. Shred into smaller pieces if needed before pan frying.
  4. Heat a large cast iron with 2 tbsp of olive oil on medium-high heat until oil is shimmering. Add turkey and onions and sprinkle with remaining sugar. Cook until turkey is browned and crispy, about 12-15 minutes, turning once every 5 minutes.
  5. Divide the turkey carnitas between tortillas and top with red onion, cilantro, and cotija cheese.

Notes

  • Using leftover turkey makes this recipe quick and easy.
  • Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 tortilla with filling
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg