Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a prep and cook time of under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.

• Healthy and Balanced: Packed with lean protein and nutrient-rich vegetables, it's both satisfying and nutritious.

• Customizable: Easily swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.

• Kid-Friendly: The sweet and savory flavors are sure to be a hit with children.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Teriyaki Sauce

• ¾ cup water

• ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 3 tablespoons brown sugar

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

• 1 tablespoon orange zest

For the Stir Fry

• 1 pound ground turkey (85% lean recommended)

• 2 teaspoons sesame oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

• 1 cup shredded carrots

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ¾ cup water, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Stir to combine and bring to a slight boil.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cornstarch and ¼ cup water to create a slurry.

3. Once the sauce begins to boil, slowly add the cornstarch mixture, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in orange zest. Set aside.

4. Cook the Stir Fry: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and sauté until softened.

5. Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned and cooked through.

6. Add broccoli florets and shredded carrots to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender.

7. Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the turkey and vegetable mixture. Stir to combine and heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetables: Substitute or add bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for a different flavor profile.

• Protein: Use ground chicken, pork, or beef as an alternative to turkey.

• Spice: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for a spicy kick.

• Sauce: For a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of honey or brown sugar.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen broccoli and carrots work well in this recipe.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, the ingredients used are dairy-free.

How can I add more heat to the dish?

Incorporate red pepper flakes, sriracha, or a diced chili pepper to increase the spice level.

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Yes, ground beef can be substituted; however, it may result in a richer flavor and higher fat content.

How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick?

If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small amount of water to reach desired consistency.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, the teriyaki sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

What can I serve this stir fry with?

Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal.

How do I know when the ground turkey is fully cooked?

Ground turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be considered safe to eat.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet.

Conclusion

This Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry is a versatile, quick, and delicious meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. With its balance of lean protein and vegetables, it's a nutritious choice that doesn't compromise on flavor. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it your own.