Delicious Nigerian Turkey Stew Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

9jakitchenblog
July 14, 2025

Introducing Nigerian Turkey Stew

Nigerian turkey stew is a rich, flavoursome dish suitable for any occasion. This hearty stew features tender turkey pieces simmered in a robust tomato base, seasoned with traditional spices to create a delightful taste. Here’s a simple guide to help you prepare this delicious meal.

Ingredients

For the Stew:
2-3 lbs turkey, cut into pieces
Tomatoes, blended
2 red bell peppers, blended
1 onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 teaspoons ginger paste (or freshly grated ginger)
1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers (adjust for heat), blended
1 cup chicken or turkey broth
1/4 cup vegetable oil (or palm oil for an authentic flavour)
Salt to taste
Seasoning cubes (like Maggi or Knorr, to taste)
Fresh or dried thyme (1 teaspoon)
Bay leaves (2)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey

Clean and cut the turkey into bite-sized pieces.
Season with salt, pepper, and a few seasoning cubes.
Let it marinate for about 30 minutes to an hour for maximum flavour.

Step 2: Blend the Pepper Mixture

In a blender, combine the tomatoes, red bell peppers, Scotch bonnet peppers, and half of the chopped onion. Blend until smooth.
You can add a little water if necessary to help with blending.

Step 3: Fry the Base

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Once hot, add the remaining chopped onions and sauté until translucent and fragrant.
Add the minced garlic and ginger paste, stirring for another minute until aromatic.

Step 4: Add the Blended Mixture

Carefully pour in the blended tomato mixture and stir.
Allow it to cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oil begins to separate from the sauce.

Step 5: Cook the Turkey

Add the marinated turkey pieces to the pot.
Stir well to coat the turkey with the stew base.
Pour in the chicken or turkey broth, and add thyme and bay leaves.
Adjust seasoning with salt and more seasoning cubes as necessary.

Step 6: Simmer

Cover the pot and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes, or until the turkey is fully cooked and tender.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 7: Adjust Consistency

If the stew is too thick, feel free to add a little water or broth for the desired consistency.
For a richer flavour, let it cook a bit longer to deepen the taste.

Step 8: Serve

Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Serve the turkey stew hot over rice, with plantains, or with your favourite Nigerian side dishes.

Tips for the Best Stew

Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest ingredients available for the best flavour.
Marinating: Letting the turkey marinate longer enhances the flavour.
Storage: Leftover stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for later use.

This stew is not only delicious but also packed with flavours that truly represent Nigerian cuisine. Enjoy your flavorful Nigerian turkey stew! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!

Health Benefits of Nigerian Turkey Stew

Nigerian Turkey Stew offers a variety of health benefits, making it not only a delicious meal but also a nutritious one. Here are some of the key health benefits:

High in Protein: Turkey is a lean meat that provides a significant amount of protein, essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The inclusion of vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions contributes essential vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and various B vitamins, which support overall health and boost the immune system.
Antioxidant Properties: Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that can help reduce inflammation and the risk of chronic diseases. Bell peppers also provide antioxidants like vitamin C, which can aid in skin health and combat oxidative stress.
Healthy Fats: The use of vegetable oil provides healthy fats that are important for heart health, especially when using oils like olive or canola oil.
Flavorful and Filling: The spices and herbs used, such as ginger, garlic, and thyme, not only enhance flavour but also offer various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and digestive health support.
Hydration: The addition of stock and blended vegetables helps contribute to hydration, especially when the stew is served with side dishes that contain water, such as rice or plantains.
Versatile and Customizable: The stew can be made with additional nutrient-rich ingredients like legumes or served with whole grains, making it adaptable to different dietary preferences and adding even more nutritional value.
Low in Carbohydrates: When served with low-carb options like leafy greens or cauliflower rice instead of traditional high-carb sides, it can fit well into low-carbohydrate or ketogenic diets.

Incorporating Nigerian Turkey Stew into your meal rotation can be a wholesome choice that supports your overall well-being while providing a comforting and hearty dish.