Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

This quick and easy Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that the whole family will enjoy. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish is ready in just 30 minutes. With a simple homemade teriyaki sauce featuring a hint of orange zest, it pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or even lettuce wraps.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Teriyaki Sauce:
• For the Stir Fry:
• For Garnish
• How to Make Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry
• Step 1: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
• Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
• Step 3: Prepare the Ground Turkey
• Step 4: Combine with Teriyaki Sauce
• Step 5: Serve
• How to Serve Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry
• Over Rice
• In Noodles
• As Lettuce Wraps
• On Its Own
• How to Perfect Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry
• Best Side Dishes for Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry
• Reheating Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I substitute ground turkey with other meats?
• How do I make the teriyaki sauce thicker?
• What can I serve with Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry?
• How long does it take to prepare Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry?
• Is Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry healthy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy evenings.
• Healthy Ingredients: Ground turkey is a lean protein, and the added veggies boost nutrition without compromising taste.
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade teriyaki sauce brings a unique sweetness with a hint of citrus that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Options: Serve over rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps for a fun twist!
• Customizable Veggies: Easily swap in your favorite vegetables to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools can help streamline your cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious stir fry.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: A wide surface allows for even cooking and prevents overcrowding of ingredients.
• Small saucepan: Ideal for making the teriyaki sauce without taking up too much space on the stove.

Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 cup water, divided
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated or minced
• 2 tablespoons corn starch
• 1 tablespoon orange zest

For the Stir Fry:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

Step 1: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ¾ cup water, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, honey, and brown sugar. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a low boil. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining ¼ cup water and corn starch until fully dissolved. Slowly stir this corn starch slurry into the saucepan and cook until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in orange zest. Set aside until ready to use.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Heat sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Then add broccoli florets and shredded carrots to the skillet; cook until heated through and tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Ground Turkey

Add ground turkey to the skillet with vegetables. Cook until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F), which takes about 7-10 minutes.

Step 4: Combine with Teriyaki Sauce

Reduce heat to low and pour prepared teriyaki sauce over the stir fry ingredients. Stir well to coat everything evenly and let simmer for a few minutes.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry over rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice. You can also enjoy it wrapped in lettuce leaves for a healthy twist!

How to Serve Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you prefer it over grains, in wraps, or on its own, there are plenty of delicious options to enjoy.

Over Rice

• White rice: A classic choice that absorbs the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
• Brown rice: Offers a nutty flavor and additional fiber for a healthier option.
• Cauliflower rice: A low-carb alternative that pairs well with the stir fry.

In Noodles

• Udon noodles: Thick and chewy, these noodles hold the sauce perfectly.
• Rice noodles: Light and gluten-free, they offer a delicate texture.
• Soba noodles: Made from buckwheat, these provide a unique flavor and health benefits.

As Lettuce Wraps

• Butter lettuce leaves: Soft and pliable, making them easy to fill and eat.
• Romaine lettuce: Crisp and sturdy, perfect for holding generous portions of stir fry.

On Its Own

• Serve plain: Enjoy the stir fry as a standalone dish for a light meal.
• Garnish with sesame seeds: Add extra crunch and visual appeal.

How to Perfect Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry, follow these simple tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the taste and nutrients of the dish. Opt for seasonal produce when possible.
• Don’t overcook turkey: Cook until just done (internal temperature 165°F) to keep it juicy. Overcooked turkey can become dry.
• Customize veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand for extra nutrition and variety.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the brown sugar or honey slightly for a more pronounced sweetness.
• Make ahead: Prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance to save time during busy weeknights. It can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
• Add crunch: Top with chopped nuts or seeds for added texture and flavor contrast.

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Best Side Dishes for Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

Pairing your Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds brightness and continues the veggie theme of your main dish.
2. Fried rice: A flavorful side dish that combines leftover rice with eggs, peas, and carrots for extra taste.
3. Miso soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can serve as a comforting starter before your stir fry meal.
4. Asian slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness alongside your stir fry.
5. Grilled asparagus: Tender grilled asparagus drizzled with soy sauce complements the flavors beautifully.
6. Edamame: These protein-packed soybeans are great for snacking or as an appetizer before your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry, it’s easy to slip up on certain steps. Here are some common mistakes and how you can avoid them.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the ground turkey can lead to bland flavors. Take a few minutes to let it soak in the teriyaki sauce for more depth.
• Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Aim for crisp-tender broccoli and carrots for the best texture.
• Using Low-Quality Soy Sauce: A poor-quality soy sauce will affect the overall flavor of your dish. Opt for a good brand for a savory taste.
• Not Measuring Ingredients: Guessing measurements may result in an imbalanced flavor. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure accuracy for the teriyaki sauce.
• Ignoring Heat Levels: Cooking at too low of a heat can cause ingredients to steam instead of stir-fry. Make sure your skillet is hot enough for that perfect sizzle.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

• Allow the stir fry to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe container with a lid. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it from drying out.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute ground turkey with other meats?

Yes, you can use ground chicken, pork, or beef instead of ground turkey. Just make sure they are cooked thoroughly.

How do I make the teriyaki sauce thicker?

If your sauce is too thin, mix additional cornstarch with water and stir it into the simmering sauce until it reaches your desired thickness.

What can I serve with Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry?

This dish pairs well with rice, noodles, or even as filling in lettuce wraps for a fresh twist.

How long does it take to prepare Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry?

The total time is about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Is Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is packed with vegetables and lean protein, making it both nutritious and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry is not just quick and easy; it’s also incredibly versatile! You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level. Try it today and discover how delightful healthy eating can be!

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