Delicious Turkey Fillets with Orange Marinade
This delightful turkey dish combines tender fillets marinated in a zesty citrus blend, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The turkey fillets absorb aromatic flavors from thyme and rosemary, complemented by the sweetness of honey and a hint of spice from chili sauce. The orange marinade, enriched with Worcestershire sauce and a splash of soy sauce, ensures a juicy and flavorful result. This recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal culinary skills, making it accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Cooking turkey in this manner locks in moisture and results in a dish that's both healthy and satisfying. The addition of mixed seeds and nuts provides a satisfying crunch and a pleasing contrast to the tender meat. The dish is versatile, easily paired with your favorite sides or salads. Perfect for meal prep, you can make extra servings and enjoy over a few days. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to treat your taste buds with this extraordinary turkey recipe.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 turkey fillets
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 tablespoons light soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- Juice and zest of 2 oranges
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Spices & Herbs
- Small bunch of thyme
- Small bunch of rosemary
- 4 cloves of garlic
- Salt, to taste
Toppings
- Assorted seeds and nuts (sunflower, sesame, almond slivers, etc.)
Preparation Time
- Total: 3 hours (including marination and cooking)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Prepare the Turkey: Begin by trimming any excess membranes from the turkey fillets to ensure even cooking.
- Make the Marinade: In a blender, combine honey, light soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, juice and zest of oranges, and Worcestershire sauce. Blend until smooth.
- Add Aromatics: Chop the thyme and rosemary, and peel the garlic cloves. Add these to the marinade, blending until well incorporated.
- Marinate the Fillets: Place the turkey fillets in a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the fillets, ensuring they are completely covered.
- Marination Time: Allow the fillets to marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, for enhanced flavor absorption.
- Preheat the Oven or Pan: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) or prepare a pan for stovetop cooking at medium heat.
- Cook the Turkey: If using an oven, bake the fillets for 30 minutes. For stovetop, cook each fillet for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway to ensure even browning.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 75°C (165°F) to confirm it's fully cooked.
- Rest the Meat: Allow the cooked fillets to rest for a few minutes to retain their juices.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle assorted seeds and nuts over the fillets for added texture.
- Plate and Enjoy: Serve with your choice of sides such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Substitute Thyme and Rosemary: If unavailable, use oregano or basil for different yet delightful flavors.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sweet chili sauce according to your spice tolerance.
- Alternative Cooking Method: Try grilling the fillets for a smoky, charred flavor.
Nutritions
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Fats: 14g
- Carbs: 28g
Variations
- Vegan Option: Substitute turkey with firm tofu or tempeh, and marinade similarly for a plant-based alternative.
- No Soy Version: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for those avoiding soy.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Pair with roasted sweet potatoes, steamed green beans, or quinoa salad.
- Garnishes: Fresh herbs or a drizzle of extra orange juice for a citrusy kick.
Best Places
- The Orange Lily - A charming cafe known for its vibrant citrus-inspired dishes. Location: 24 Chestnut Ave, Melbourne, Australia.
- Citrus Haven - Specializes in dishes infused with fresh citrus flavors. Location: 198 Orchard St, New York, USA.
- Thyme & Tumeric - Offers an array of herb-infused meals. Location: 10 Rosemary Lane, London, UK.
- Sunflower Bites - A cozy spot with a focus on seed-enriched meals. Location: 45 Bloom St, Vancouver, Canada.
- Saffron & Rose - Combines bright flavors with aromatic spices. Location: 88 Jasmine Ave, Dubai, UAE.
- Spice Symphony - Famous for its vibrant, spice-rich menu. Location: 300 Curry Blvd, Mumbai, India.
- Zest Bistro - Known for its zestful approach to traditional dishes. Location: 56 Citrus Rd, Cape Town, South Africa.
- Rosemary's Kitchen - A quaint place that highlights fresh, herbal notes. Location: 22 Herb Lane, Rome, Italy.
- Mandarin Delights - Offers a unique twist on citrus-marinated dishes. Location: 34 Citrus Dr, Beijing, China.
- Lemon & Lime - Brings a refreshing taste to classic recipes. Location: 77 Citrus Way, Los Angeles, USA.