Making turkey stock in a crock pot is a fantastic way to use leftover turkey bones and create a flavorful base for soups, stews, and sauces. This method is simple, hands-off, and yields a rich, delicious stock. Let’s dive into how to make it!
Making homemade turkey stock is easier than you might think, and using a crock pot makes it even more convenient. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a delicious turkey stock.
**What You’ll Need**
* Leftover turkey carcass (bones and skin)
* Vegetable scraps (onion, carrots, celery)
* Herbs and spices (bay leaves, peppercorns, thyme)
* Water
**Step-by-Step Instructions**
1. **Gather Your Ingredients:** After your holiday feast, don’t toss that turkey carcass! Collect all the bones, skin, and any leftover meat. Save vegetable scraps like onion ends, carrot peels, and celery tops. These add depth and flavor to your stock.
2. **Prep the Crock Pot:** Place the turkey carcass and vegetable scraps into your crock pot. Break the carcass into smaller pieces if necessary to fit comfortably.
3. **Add Herbs and Spices:** Toss in a few bay leaves, a handful of peppercorns, and a sprig or two of thyme. These aromatics will infuse the stock with a wonderful flavor.
4. **Cover with Water:** Pour enough water into the crock pot to completely cover the turkey bones and vegetables. Leave about an inch of space at the top.
5. **Cook on Low:** Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 8-12 hours. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. **Strain the Stock:** Once the stock is done, carefully remove the bones and vegetables using a slotted spoon or tongs. Place a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth over a large bowl or pot. Pour the stock through the sieve to remove any small particles.
7. **Cool and Store:** Let the stock cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for longer storage.
**Tips for the Best Turkey Stock**
* **Roast the Carcass:** For an even richer flavor, roast the turkey carcass in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes before adding it to the crock pot.
* **Don’t Add Salt:** It’s best to avoid adding salt during the cooking process. You can always season the stock later when you use it in a recipe.
* **Remove Excess Fat:** After the stock has cooled, you can easily remove any solidified fat from the top. This will result in a clearer and healthier stock.
* **Vegetable Variety:** Feel free to experiment with different vegetable scraps. Parsley stems, leek greens, and mushroom stems can all add unique flavors.
* **Spice it Up:** Add other spices like rosemary, sage, or garlic for a customized flavor profile.
**Why Use a Crock Pot?**
Using a crock pot to make turkey stock offers several advantages:
* **Convenience:** Set it and forget it! The crock pot does all the work, freeing you up to do other things.
* **Gentle Simmering:** The low and slow cooking process extracts maximum flavor from the ingredients.
* **Space Saving:** It keeps your stovetop free for other cooking tasks, especially during busy holiday seasons.
**Storing Your Turkey Stock**
Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality and flavor of your homemade turkey stock.
* **Refrigerating:** Store the cooled stock in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
* **Freezing:** For longer storage, freeze the stock in freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays. Frozen stock can last for several months.
**How to Use Turkey Stock**
Homemade turkey stock is incredibly versatile and can elevate a wide range of dishes.
* **Soups and Stews:** Use it as a base for hearty soups and stews like turkey noodle soup, vegetable soup, or turkey chili.
* **Sauces and Gravies:** Incorporate it into sauces and gravies for added depth and flavor.
* **Risotto:** Cook risotto with turkey stock for a creamy and flavorful dish.
* **Braising:** Use it as a braising liquid for meats and vegetables.
* **Cooking Grains:** Cook rice, quinoa, or other grains in turkey stock for a more flavorful side dish.
**Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)**
* **Can I use a frozen turkey carcass?**
Yes, you can use a frozen turkey carcass. Just make sure to thaw it partially before adding it to the crock pot.
* **Do I need to remove the meat from the bones before making stock?**
You don’t need to remove all the meat, but it’s a good idea to remove any large pieces. Small bits of meat will add flavor to the stock.
* **Can I add salt to the stock?**
It’s best to avoid adding salt during the cooking process. You can always season the stock later when you use it in a recipe.
* **How long does turkey stock last in the freezer?**
Turkey stock can last for several months in the freezer. Make sure to store it in freezer-safe containers to prevent freezer burn.
* **Can I use other types of bones to make stock in a crock pot?**
Yes, you can use chicken bones, beef bones, or even vegetable scraps to make stock in a crock pot. The process is the same for all types of stock.
* **What if my stock is cloudy?**
Cloudy stock is perfectly fine to use. It’s often caused by small particles of bone or vegetables. If you prefer a clearer stock, you can strain it through a cheesecloth-lined sieve.
Enjoy the process of making your own delicious turkey stock!