How To Cook Smoked Turkey Legs In A Slow Cooker

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Introduction

Smoked turkey legs are a delicious and hearty dish that can be enjoyed on their own or used as a flavorful addition to a variety of recipes. The rich and smoky flavor, combined with tender and juicy meat, makes smoked turkey legs a favorite among many food enthusiasts.

In this article, we will explore how to cook smoked turkey legs in a slow cooker. The slow cooker method not only simplifies the cooking process but also ensures that the turkey legs are cooked to perfection, resulting in tender and flavorful meat that falls off the bone.

If you’re a fan of smoked meats but don’t have access to a smoker or simply prefer a more convenient cooking method, using a slow cooker is a fantastic alternative. It allows you to achieve that irresistible smokiness right in your own kitchen.

Before we dive into the step-by-step guide, let’s take a closer look at smoked turkey legs and what makes them so enticing.

Overview of Smoked Turkey Legs

Smoked turkey legs are a popular dish that originated in southern and barbecue-centric cuisines. The process of smoking involves slow-cooking the meat over low heat and infusing it with aromatic wood smoke. This results in a unique flavor profile and a succulent texture that is loved by many.

One of the main advantages of using turkey legs for smoking is their size. Turkey legs are larger and meatier compared to other poultry cuts, making them perfect for a bold and hearty meal. The dark meat of turkey legs is naturally juicier, more tender, and packed with flavor, which enhances the overall eating experience.

When properly smoked, turkey legs develop a beautiful mahogany crust on the outside while remaining moist and tender on the inside. The slow and gentle cooking process allows the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat, creating a deliciously smoky and savory taste that is hard to resist.

Smoked turkey legs are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. They can be served as the main course for a family gathering or barbecue, added to soups and stews for added richness, or even shredded and used as a flavorful filling for sandwiches and wraps.

Not only are smoked turkey legs a delightful feast for the taste buds, but they also make for an impressive visual presentation. The sight of a perfectly smoked turkey leg, with its golden brown color and tantalizing aroma, is sure to impress your friends and family.

Now that you have a better understanding of smoked turkey legs and their appeal, let’s move on to the essential steps to prepare and cook them in a slow cooker.

Preparing the Smoked Turkey Legs

Before you start cooking the smoked turkey legs in a slow cooker, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Proper preparation ensures that the flavors are well-balanced and that the cooking process goes smoothly.

Ingredients:

• 4 turkey legs
• 2 tablespoons of your preferred dry rub or seasoning blend
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
• 1 cup of chicken or turkey broth (optional for added moisture)

Equipment Needed:

• Slow cooker
• Foil
• Meat thermometer

Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step guide on preparing the smoked turkey legs.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Thawing the Turkey Legs: If the turkey legs are frozen, ensure that you thaw them completely in the refrigerator. This can take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours, depending on the size of the legs. Thawing them in the refrigerator ensures that the meat remains safe to consume and allows for even cooking.
2. Seasoning the Turkey Legs: Prior to cooking, it is important to season the turkey legs with your preferred dry rub or seasoning blend. This will enhance the flavor profile of the meat. You can choose from a variety of spices such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, or a pre-made seasoning blend. Rub the seasoning all over the turkey legs, ensuring that they are well-coated. For an added layer of flavor, you can let the seasoned legs marinate in the refrigerator for a couple of hours.
3. Preparing the Slow Cooker: Place the slow cooker on a stable surface and line the bottom with foil. This will make the cleaning process easier. Additionally, you can lightly grease the foil or use cooking spray to prevent sticking.
4. Cooking the Turkey Legs: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil and heat it until it shimmers. Carefully place the seasoned turkey legs into the skillet and sear them on all sides until nicely browned. This step adds flavor and helps lock in the juices. Once seared, transfer the turkey legs to the slow cooker and arrange them in a single layer.
5. Adding Moisture (optional): For added moisture and flavor, you can pour in 1 cup of chicken or turkey broth into the bottom of the slow cooker. This will keep the turkey legs moist during the cooking process.
6. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low heat. Allow the turkey legs to cook slowly for 6-8 hours, or until the meat is tender and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.
7. Checking the Doneness: Using a meat thermometer, verify the internal temperature of the turkey legs. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, away from the bone. If it reads 165°F (74°C) or higher, the turkey legs are done. If not, continue cooking for another 30 minutes to an hour and check again.
8. Serving the Smoked Turkey Legs: Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey legs from the slow cooker and transfer them to a plate or cutting board. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. The meat should be juicy, tender, and flavorful. Serve the smoked turkey legs as a main course with your favorite sides or use them in various recipes.

Now that you know how to prepare the smoked turkey legs, let’s explore some tips and variations to elevate your dish even further.

Ingredients

To cook delicious smoked turkey legs in a slow cooker, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 turkey legs: Choose turkey legs that are fresh or thawed if previously frozen. The meatier and larger the legs, the more flavorful your smoked turkey legs will be.
• 2 tablespoons of your preferred dry rub or seasoning blend: This can be a store-bought dry rub or a homemade blend of spices. Popular options include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and any other herbs and spices you enjoy.
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil: The oil will be used to sear the turkey legs before slow cooking, adding a nice crust and enhancing the flavor.
• 1 cup of chicken or turkey broth (optional): Adding broth to the slow cooker can provide extra moisture and flavor to the meat during the cooking process, but this step is optional.

These simple ingredients will work together to create a delicious and flavorful dish that you and your family or guests will love. Feel free to adjust the quantities of the seasoning and broth based on your personal taste preferences.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to gather the necessary equipment and start making these mouthwatering smoked turkey legs in a slow cooker.

Equipment Needed

To cook smoked turkey legs in a slow cooker, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Slow cooker: Also known as a crockpot, this is the key appliance for slow cooking the turkey legs. Make sure your slow cooker is large enough to fit all 4 turkey legs comfortably.
• Foil: This will be used to line the bottom of the slow cooker, making cleanup easier and preventing the turkey legs from sticking to the pot.
• Meat thermometer: It’s essential to have a meat thermometer to ensure that the turkey legs are cooked to the proper temperature for safety and optimal flavor. Look for a meat thermometer that can provide an accurate reading.

These are the basic equipment you’ll need to get started. However, you can also consider using additional tools or accessories to enhance the smoking process, such as:

• Wood chips: If you want to add a smoky flavor to your turkey legs, you can use wood chips specifically designed for smoking. Soak the wood chips in water for about 30 minutes, then drain and scatter them over the bottom of the slow cooker before placing the turkey legs.
• Smoking pouch: A smoking pouch or packet can be made using aluminum foil. Fill it with soaked wood chips, seal it tightly, and poke a few holes in it to allow the smoke to escape. Place the smoking pouch on top of the turkey legs in the slow cooker to infuse them with a smoky aroma.
• Basting brush: If you plan to baste the turkey legs with sauce during the cooking process, a basting brush will come in handy. It allows you to evenly coat the meat, adding extra flavor and moisture.
• Grill or oven (optional): Although the slow cooker method is the heart of this recipe, you can finish the turkey legs on the grill or in the oven for a charred and crispy exterior, if desired.

Having these equipment and tools prepared will ensure that you can cook your smoked turkey legs with ease and achieve the best results. Now, armed with the right ingredients and equipment, let’s dive into the step-by-step guide for the perfect slow-cooked smoked turkey legs!

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Thawing the Turkey Legs

If your turkey legs are frozen, it’s important to thaw them before cooking. Thawing them in the refrigerator is the safest method. Place the turkey legs in a sealed bag or container and allow them to thaw in the refrigerator for 24 to 48 hours, depending on their size. Ensure they are completely thawed before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2: Seasoning the Turkey Legs

Prior to cooking, season the turkey legs with your preferred dry rub or seasoning blend. You can use store-bought rubs or create your own using a combination of spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and any other flavors you enjoy. Rub the seasoning all over the turkey legs, ensuring they are well-coated. For an extra burst of flavor, you can let the seasoned legs marinate in the refrigerator for a couple of hours or overnight.

Step 3: Preparing the Slow Cooker

Place the slow cooker on a stable surface and line the bottom with foil. This will make the cleaning process easier later on. You can lightly grease the foil or use cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Cooking the Turkey Legs

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil and heat until it shimmers. Carefully place the seasoned turkey legs into the skillet and sear them on all sides until nicely browned. This step helps seal in the juices and adds flavor. Transfer the seared turkey legs to the slow cooker and arrange them in a single layer at the bottom.

Step 5: Adding Smoke Flavor (optional)

If you want to infuse your turkey legs with a smoky flavor, you have a couple of options. You can scatter soaked wood chips over the bottom of the slow cooker before placing the turkey legs on top, or you can create a smoking pouch with soaked wood chips and place it on or alongside the turkey legs. This will add a delightful smokiness to the dish.

Step 6: Checking the Doneness

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low heat. Let the turkey legs cook for 6 to 8 hours or until the meat is tender and cooked through. To ensure they reach a safe internal temperature, use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the meat reads at least 165°F (74°C). If the temperature hasn’t been reached, continue cooking for another 30 minutes to an hour.

Step 7: Serving the Smoked Turkey Legs

Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey legs from the slow cooker and transfer them to a plate or cutting board. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. The meat should be juicy, tender, and flavorful. Serve the smoked turkey legs as a main course with your favorite sides. They can also be used in sandwiches, salads, or shredded for other recipes.

With these easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy delectable smoked turkey legs cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Now, let’s explore some tips and variations to make your dish even more enjoyable!

Step 1: Thawing the Turkey Legs

The first step in preparing your smoked turkey legs is to ensure they are properly thawed. Thawing the turkey legs in advance will promote even cooking and help prevent any risks associated with improperly cooked meat.

Thawing the turkey legs in the refrigerator is the recommended method, as it allows for a slow and safe process that maintains the quality of the meat. Here’s how to do it:

1. Remove the turkey legs from any packaging or wrapping materials.
2. Place the turkey legs in a large, leak-proof plastic bag or a shallow container that can hold any potential liquid released during thawing.
3. Position the bag or container in the refrigerator, making sure it is placed on a lower shelf away from other food items to avoid cross-contamination.
4. Allow the turkey legs to thaw in the refrigerator for approximately 24 to 48 hours, depending on the size of the legs. Larger turkey legs may require more time to thaw completely.
5. Occasionally check on the progress of the thawing process. During this time, you may notice residual liquid in the bag or container. This is normal and can be discarded when the turkey legs are fully thawed.
6. Once the turkey legs are completely thawed, they are ready to be seasoned and prepared for smoking.

Note: It’s important to never thaw turkey legs at room temperature, as it increases the risk of bacterial growth and foodborne illnesses. Thawing in the refrigerator is the safest and most recommended method.

Thawing your turkey legs properly ensures that the meat cooks evenly and reduces the risk of any food safety concerns. Once your turkey legs are thawed, you can move on to the next step of seasoning and preparing them for smoking in your slow cooker.

Step 2: Seasoning the Turkey Legs

After thawing the turkey legs, it’s time to infuse them with delicious flavors through seasoning. The seasoning process will enhance the taste and aroma of the meat, creating a truly delectable smoked turkey leg.

Here’s how you can season the turkey legs:

1. Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick better to the meat.
2. Choose your preferred dry rub or seasoning blend. You can use a store-bought dry rub or create your own custom blend using a combination of herbs, spices, and seasonings. Popular options include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage.
3. Sprinkle the chosen seasoning all over the turkey legs, ensuring that each leg is evenly coated. Use your hands to gently rub the seasoning into the meat, allowing it to penetrate for maximum flavor.
4. For even more flavor, you can marinate the seasoned turkey legs in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. Place the legs in a sealed container or plastic bag and let them absorb the flavors of the seasoning. This step is optional but can intensify the taste of the smoked turkey legs.

By seasoning the turkey legs, you not only add a burst of flavor but also create a flavorful crust on the outer surface once they’re cooked. The choice of seasonings is entirely up to you, so feel free to get creative and experiment with different spices and flavors to suit your preferences.

Once the turkey legs are well-seasoned, they are ready to be prepared in the slow cooker for a slow and tender cooking process that will result in succulent smoked turkey legs.

Step 3: Preparing the Slow Cooker

Now that your turkey legs are seasoned and ready to be cooked, it’s time to prepare your slow cooker. Proper preparation of the slow cooker ensures that the turkey legs cook evenly and come out tender and flavorful.

Follow these steps to prepare your slow cooker:

1. Place the slow cooker on a stable surface, ensuring that it’s clean and in good working condition.
2. Line the bottom of the slow cooker with foil. This helps with easy cleanup and prevents the turkey legs from sticking to the bottom.
3. Lightly grease the foil or use cooking spray to prevent any potential sticking.

By lining the slow cooker with foil, you create a barrier between the meat and the heating element. This prevents any residue from sticking to the bottom and makes cleanup hassle-free. Greasing the foil further ensures that the turkey legs don’t stick during the cooking process.

By taking these simple steps to prepare your slow cooker, you set the stage for a successful cooking process and delicious smoked turkey legs. With the slow cooker ready, it’s time to move on to the next step of transferring the turkey legs and cooking them to perfection.

Step 4: Cooking the Turkey Legs

With your slow cooker prepared, it’s time to start cooking the turkey legs. This step involves searing the legs to lock in the flavors before transferring them to the slow cooker for a long, slow cook that will result in tender and juicy smoked turkey legs.

Here’s how to cook the turkey legs:

1. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers.
2. Carefully place the seasoned turkey legs into the hot skillet. Sear the legs for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust.
3. Using tongs, transfer the seared turkey legs to the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer at the bottom.

Searing the turkey legs before transferring them to the slow cooker helps to seal in the juices and intensify the flavors. It also adds a nice texture and beautiful color to the meat. This step is essential for achieving the best results when slow cooking the turkey legs.

Once the turkey legs are arranged in the slow cooker, you’re ready to move on to the next step of adding moisture (if desired) and setting the cooker to the appropriate temperature.

Note: If you prefer to skip the searing step, you can place the seasoned turkey legs directly in the slow cooker without searing. However, searing adds an extra depth of flavor and enhances the overall taste of the smoked turkey legs.

In the next step, we will discuss adding moisture and additional flavors to the slow cooker to enhance the cooking process.

Step 5: Adding Smoke Flavor (optional)

If you want to infuse your smoked turkey legs with a smoky flavor, you have the option to add smoke during the slow cooking process. This step is entirely optional, but it can take your smoked turkey legs to the next level in terms of flavor and aroma.

There are a couple of methods you can use to add smoke flavor to your turkey legs:

1. Using Wood Chips:

• Soak a handful of wood chips, such as hickory, apple, or mesquite, in water for about 30 minutes. This helps prevent them from burning and produces a steady stream of smoke.
• Drain the wood chips and scatter them over the bottom of the slow cooker, making sure they are evenly dispersed.
• Place the seared turkey legs on top of the wood chips, arranging them in a single layer.

2. Creating a Smoking Pouch:

• Take a piece of aluminum foil and create a pouch by folding and sealing the edges tightly.
• Add a handful of soaked wood chips to the pouch.
• Poke a few holes in the pouch to allow the smoke to escape.
• Place the smoking pouch on top of or alongside the turkey legs in the slow cooker.

The wood chips will slowly release smoke as they heat up, infusing the turkey legs with a delicious smoky flavor. This replication of the traditional smoking method creates an authentic BBQ taste in your slow-cooked turkey legs.

Remember, using wood chips is optional, and your smoked turkey legs will still be delicious without the smoke flavor. Feel free to experiment with different types of wood chips to achieve your desired level of smokiness.

Once you’ve decided whether to include the smoke flavor or not, it’s time to move on to the next step, where we’ll cover checking the doneness of your smoked turkey legs.

Step 6: Checking the Doneness

As your smoked turkey legs slow cook in the flavorful environment of the slow cooker, it’s important to periodically check their doneness to ensure they are cooked to perfection. Checking their internal temperature using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to determine if they are ready to be enjoyed.

Here’s how to check the doneness of your smoked turkey legs:

1. Using a Meat Thermometer:

• Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of one of the turkey legs, without touching the bone.
• Ensure that you get an accurate reading from the center of the meat.
• The turkey legs are considered safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) or higher.
• If the thermometer registers a lower temperature, continue cooking the turkey legs for an additional 30 minutes to an hour, or until the desired temperature is reached.

2. Visual and Texture Indicators:

• Observe the appearance of the turkey legs. They should have a golden brown exterior with the meat beginning to shrink away from the bone.
• The meat should be tender and easily pull away from the bone.
• If the turkey legs appear undercooked or have a pinkish hue near the bone, they need more time to cook.

It’s crucial to ensure that the turkey legs are cooked to a safe internal temperature to prevent any risk of foodborne illness. The slow cooking process in the slow cooker ensures that the meat retains its tenderness and juiciness while reaching the ideal temperature.

Once the turkey legs are cooked through, it’s time to remove them from the slow cooker and get ready to serve them. We’ll cover the final step of serving the smoked turkey legs in the next section.

Step 7: Serving the Smoked Turkey Legs

After the slow cooking process is complete and you have confirmed that your smoked turkey legs are cooked to the desired internal temperature, it’s time to take them out of the slow cooker and get ready to serve a delicious and satisfying meal.

Here’s how to serve your smoked turkey legs:

1. Carefully remove the smoked turkey legs from the slow cooker, using tongs or a slotted spoon to prevent them from falling apart.
2. Transfer the turkey legs to a plate or cutting board, allowing them to rest for a few minutes. This helps retain the moisture and juices within the meat.
3. With a sharp knife or your hands, serve the smoked turkey legs as a main course alongside your favorite sides. They pair well with classics like mashed potatoes, cornbread, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw.
4. If desired, you can brush the smoked turkey legs with extra barbecue sauce or glaze for added flavor. This step is optional, as the turkey legs are already rich in flavors from the seasoning and slow cooking process.

Now, with your tender and flavorful smoked turkey legs beautifully presented, it’s time to dig in and savor each bite. Enjoy the smoky aroma, the tender meat that falls off the bone, and the delicious flavors that will leave you craving more.

Leftover smoked turkey legs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also use the leftover meat to make sandwiches, salads, or soups for quick and tasty meals.

Congratulations! You have successfully cooked and served your smoked turkey legs using a slow cooker. Enjoy your meal and the delightful flavors you’ve created!

To enhance the flavor of the smoked turkey legs, consider adding a few slices of onion, a couple of cloves of garlic, and a bay leaf to the slow cooker before cooking. This will infuse the meat with extra savory goodness.

Tips and Variations

Cooking smoked turkey legs in a slow cooker is a versatile process that allows for customization and experimentation. Here are some tips and variations to consider to enhance your smoked turkey leg recipe:

1. Experiment with different seasonings: Get creative with your spice blends. Try adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to the dry rub or incorporate other seasonings like chili powder, cumin, or smoked paprika for a unique flavor profile.

2. Add a sweet or savory glaze: Elevate the flavor of your smoked turkey legs by brushing them with a sweet or savory glaze toward the end of the cooking process. Options include a honey and mustard glaze, a maple-bourbon glaze, or a tangy barbecue sauce.

3. Try different wood chips: Experiment with different types of wood chips to achieve various smoke flavors. Hickory, applewood, cherry, or mesquite chips all impart distinct flavors to the meat.

4. Include aromatic ingredients: Enhance the aroma and flavor of your smoked turkey legs by adding aromatic ingredients to the slow cooker. Try sliced onions, garlic cloves, fresh herbs, or citrus slices to infuse additional flavors.

5. Char on the grill: After slow cooking the turkey legs in the slow cooker, finish them off on a grill over medium-high heat for a few minutes per side to develop a delicious charred crust and enhance the smoky flavors.

6. Make a smoky sauce: If you want a smoky dipping sauce or glaze to accompany your smoked turkey legs, you can combine barbecue sauce with a few drops of liquid smoke and additional seasonings to create a flavorful sauce.

7. Double up the recipe: If you’re cooking for a larger crowd or want to have leftovers, simply double the ingredients and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

8. Use the turkey legs in other recipes: Shred the smoked turkey meat and use it in sandwiches, salads, tacos, or soups for a flavor-packed twist.

9. Pair with sides: Serve your smoked turkey legs with traditional barbecue side dishes like cornbread, mac and cheese, baked beans, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

10. Practice food safety: Always follow food safety guidelines when handling and cooking poultry. Thoroughly wash hands, utensils, and surfaces to prevent cross-contamination. Ensure the turkey legs reach the recommended internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Feel free to adapt these tips and variations based on your personal preferences and creativity. Remember, the key is to enjoy the process of experimenting and indulging in your homemade smoked turkey legs.

Now that you’re armed with these tips and variations, it’s time to get cooking and relish the smoky flavors of your delicious slow-cooked turkey legs!

Conclusion

Preparing and cooking smoked turkey legs in a slow cooker is an excellent way to enjoy the rich and smoky flavors of this beloved dish. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can easily create tender, flavorful, and mouthwatering smoked turkey legs right in your own kitchen.

The slow cooker method simplifies the cooking process and ensures that the meat remains juicy and tender, while the option to add a smoky flavor takes the dish to a whole new level. With the right blend of seasonings, a touch of smoke, and patience during the slow cooking process, you can create a truly unforgettable meal.

Whether you’re hosting a family barbecue or looking to add a delicious protein to your weeknight dinner rotation, smoked turkey legs are a fantastic option. The versatility of the dish allows you to serve them as a main course, include them in sandwiches or salads, or shred the meat for use in various recipes.

Remember to experiment with different seasonings, wood chips, and glazes to personalize the flavor profile according to your taste preferences. And don’t forget to follow food safety guidelines, ensuring that the turkey legs are cooked to the recommended internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

So, gather your ingredients, prepare your slow cooker, and let the flavors mingle and develop as the smoked turkey legs slowly cook to perfection. Your home will be filled with an enticing aroma, and your taste buds will be rewarded with a tantalizing meal.

Enjoy the process, savor each bite, and delight in the satisfaction of sharing a delicious homemade meal with family and friends. Happy cooking and bon appétit!

Frequently Asked Questions about How To Cook Smoked Turkey Legs In A Slow Cooker