Name: Leftover Turkey Fried Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: Nonstick cooking spray; 1 medium onion; ½ cup peas and carrots; 2 tbsp salted butter; 3 cups rice; 2 cups Turkey; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 2 large eggs

Revamp your holiday leftovers with this delectable turkey fried rice recipe. It's a fantastic way to turn your leftover turkey into a brand new, flavor-packed dish. This recipe is not only quick but is also wonderfully versatile, allowing you to use up any additional leftovers from your holiday feast. The turkey lends a heartiness that's perfectly complemented by the vibrant veggies and savory sauces, providing a delightful twist on the classic fried rice dish.

Photos of Leftover Turkey Fried Rice Recipe

Most of the ingredients required for this recipe are basics you might already have in your pantry. However, sesame oil might be something you need to pick up. This oil is derived from sesame seeds and adds a nutty aroma and taste to the fried rice, offering an authentic Asian touch. You can usually find it in the international aisle at your supermarket.

Key Ingredients for Leftover Turkey Fried Rice Recipe

Nonstick cooking spray: Used to coat the pan and prevent the food from sticking.

Onion: Adds a delicious sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.

Peas and carrots: These classic veggies provide color, texture, and added nutrition.

Butter: Gives the fried rice a rich, savory flavor.

Rice: The base of the dish. You can use day-old rice for the best results.

Turkey: The star of the dish. Leftover, already-cooked turkey works perfectly.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor. You can adjust the amount according to your taste preference.

Sesame oil: Brings in a nutty, aromatic flavor that is characteristic of Asian-style fried rice.

Eggs: Adds protein and helps to bind the ingredients together.

One reader, Kary Perdue says:

This leftover turkey fried rice recipe is a game-changer! It's a fantastic way to repurpose Thanksgiving leftovers. The flavors blend perfectly, and the dish is so satisfying. Plus, it's super easy to make. I highly recommend trying it out!

Kary Perdue

Techniques for Making the Best Leftover Turkey Fried Rice

How to sauté onions: Sauté the onions over medium heat for about 5 minutes until translucent.

How to cook frozen vegetables: Cook and stir the frozen vegetables and butter, allowing the butter to melt and the veggies to thaw for 3 to 5 minutes.

How to stir-fry rice and turkey: Increase the heat to medium-high and stir in the rice and turkey. Add the soy sauce gradually, 2 tablespoons at a time, and stir until the rice takes on color.

How to incorporate sesame oil: Add the sesame oil to the center of the pan, then stir the rice mixture until coated.

How to scramble eggs: Break the eggs in the center of the pan and scramble for 2 to 3 minutes until set, then stir into the rice mixture until well combined.

How To Make Leftover Turkey Fried Rice

This turkey fried rice recipe made with eggs, peas and carrots, and rice turns your leftovers into a scrumptious dish! Whip this up in just 25 minutes.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

nonstick cooking spray
1medium onion,diced
½cuppeas and carrots,frozen
2tbspsalted butter
3cupsrice,cold, cooked
2cupsturkey,cooked, diced
2tbspsoy sauce,or more to taste
1tbspsesame oil,or as needed
2large eggs

Instructions

Coat a large pan with cooking spray. Add the onion and sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes until translucent.
Add the frozen vegetables and butter, then cook and stir, allowing butter to melt and veggies to thaw for 3 to 5 minutes.
Increase the heat to medium-high and stir in rice and turkey. Add the soy sauce, 2 tablespoons at a time, and stir until rice takes on color. Push everything to the sides of the pan.
Add the sesame oil to the center of the pan, then stir the rice mixture until coated. Push everything to the sides of the pan again.
Break the eggs in the center of the pan. Scramble in the center for 2 to 3 minutes until set, then stir into rice mixture until well combined.
Serve warm and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 542.68kcal
Fat: 13.30g
Saturated Fat: 4.28g
Trans Fat: 0.19g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.99g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.94g
Carbohydrates: 82.84g
Fiber: 1.26g
Sugar: 2.06g
Protein: 20.07g
Cholesterol: 105.78mg
Sodium: 410.37mg
Calcium: 36.73mg
Potassium: 324.50mg
Iron: 1.80mg
Vitamin A: 156.46µg
Vitamin C: 6.79mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Your Leftover Turkey Fried Rice

When preparing fried rice, it's best to use day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and may result in a mushy texture. If you only have fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool in the refrigerator for a few hours to dry out before using. This will ensure your fried rice is light and fluffy, not sticky or clumpy.

Time-Saving Tips for Leftover Turkey Fried Rice Recipe

Prep ahead: Cook the rice and chop the turkey in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pan wonder: Use a large pan to cook everything in one go, minimizing clean-up and saving time.

Efficient organization: Have all ingredients and utensils ready before starting to cook for a smoother process.

Quick cook: Use high heat to quickly cook the ingredients without compromising on flavor.

Leftover magic: Utilize leftover turkey to cut down on cooking time and reduce food waste.

Flavor shortcut: Use pre-cooked turkey and leftover rice to cut down on cooking time without sacrificing flavor.

Customize and conquer: Adjust the recipe to your taste preferences to save time on searching for alternative ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Leftover Turkey Fried Rice Recipe

nonstick cooking spray - Substitute with vegetable oil spray: Vegetable oil spray can be used as a nonstick alternative for cooking the ingredients.
1 medium onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a unique taste to the fried rice.
½ cup peas and carrots - Substitute with frozen mixed vegetables: Frozen mixed vegetables typically include peas and carrots and can be used as a convenient substitute.
2 tbsp salted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter for sautéing the ingredients.
3 cups rice - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa can be used as a nutritious and gluten-free alternative to rice in the fried rice recipe.
2 cups turkey - Substitute with chicken: Chicken can be used as a substitute for turkey, providing a similar texture and flavor in the fried rice.
2 tbsp soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, providing a similar umami flavor to the dish.
1 tbsp sesame oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil can be used as a substitute for sesame oil, adding a nutty flavor to the fried rice.
2 large eggs - Substitute with tofu: Tofu can be used as a vegetarian alternative to eggs, providing protein and a creamy texture to the fried rice.

Presenting Your Leftover Turkey Fried Rice

Elevate the dish with garnishes: Add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the fried rice by garnishing with thinly sliced scallions, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, and a drizzle of chili oil for a pop of color and flavor.
Create a visually appealing arrangement: Arrange the fried rice in a shallow bowl or on a rectangular plate, using a ring mold for a neat presentation. Ensure that the rice is evenly distributed and use a small offset spatula to create a smooth surface.
Incorporate a touch of umami: Enhance the depth of flavor by incorporating a small amount of truffle oil into the fried rice. This will add a luxurious aroma and elevate the overall taste of the dish.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Present the fried rice in a beautiful, handcrafted ceramic bowl or on a sleek, modern plate to showcase the dish's artistry and appeal to the discerning eye of the judges.
Balance the colors and textures: Incorporate vibrant, fresh herbs such as cilantro or Thai basil to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Additionally, consider adding a few crispy fried shallots for a delightful crunch.
Focus on precision and attention to detail: Pay close attention to the placement of each component on the plate, ensuring that the presentation is meticulous and visually captivating. Every element should be purposefully arranged to create a harmonious composition.

Essential Tools for Making Fried Rice with Leftover Turkey

Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife used for a variety of kitchen tasks such as chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Large skillet: A wide, flat-bottomed pan with sloped sides, used for frying, sautéing, and stir-frying ingredients.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade, used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients.
Cooking spoon: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl, used for stirring, mixing, and serving food.
Measuring cup: A container used for measuring liquid or dry ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Small spoons used to measure ingredients in small quantities.
Stove: A cooking appliance with burners used for heating and cooking food.
Large mixing bowl: A deep bowl used for mixing and combining ingredients.
Nonstick cooking spray: A spray used to coat cooking surfaces to prevent food from sticking.
Large pan: A wide, shallow cooking vessel with a handle and sometimes a lid, used for frying, sautéing, and simmering.

Storing and Freezing Leftover Turkey Fried Rice

Allow the fried rice to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. This will prevent the rice from becoming soggy and help maintain its texture.
Leftover turkey fried rice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep it in a sealed container to prevent any odors from seeping in.
If you want to freeze the leftover fried rice, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
When freezing, it's a good idea to portion the fried rice into individual servings. This way, you can easily thaw and reheat only what you need without having to defrost the entire batch.
Frozen turkey fried rice can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to label the container or bag with the date of freezing so you can keep track of how long it's been in the freezer.
To reheat frozen fried rice, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Once thawed, you can reheat it in a microwave or in a pan on the stovetop until it's heated through and steaming hot.
If you're reheating the fried rice in a pan, you may need to add a splash of water or chicken broth to help rehydrate the rice and prevent it from drying out or sticking to the pan.

How To Reheat Leftover Turkey Fried Rice

Stovetop method: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of cooking oil or butter to the pan. Once hot, add the leftover turkey fried rice to the pan and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. Use a spatula to break up any clumps and ensure even heating. Add a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil for extra flavor if desired.
Microwave method: Place the leftover turkey fried rice in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent the rice from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until the rice is heated through. If the rice seems dry, add a tablespoon of water before microwaving to help rehydrate it.
Oven method: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover turkey fried rice to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is heated through. Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of reheating to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and create a slightly crispy texture on top.
Steaming method: Set up a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water. Place the leftover turkey fried rice in a heatproof bowl that fits inside the steamer basket. Cover the bowl with a lid or aluminum foil and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the rice is heated through. This method helps to retain moisture and prevent the rice from drying out.
Stir-fry method: Heat a small amount of cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add some diced onion, garlic, and any other desired vegetables. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Add the leftover turkey fried rice to the pan and stir-fry for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. This method allows you to refresh the flavors and add extra nutrients to your leftover dish.

Interesting Fact About Leftover Turkey Fried Rice

The fried rice recipe is a great way to use up leftover turkey and create a delicious meal.

Is Making Fried Rice with Leftover Turkey Cost-Effective?

This leftover turkey fried rice recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. Utilizing leftover turkey reduces food waste, and the addition of vegetables and rice makes it a budget-friendly meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-15, making it an economical choice. The versatility of this recipe allows for easy customization with different vegetables and meats, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Overall Verdict: 9/10.

Is Leftover Turkey Fried Rice Healthy or Unhealthy?

This leftover turkey fried rice recipe is a relatively healthy option, as it incorporates lean protein from the turkey and nutrients from the vegetables. However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make it even healthier:

The recipe uses white rice, which is a refined grain. Substituting with brown rice or quinoa would increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients.
Soy sauce is high in sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues when consumed in excess. Using low-sodium soy sauce or substituting with coconut aminos would be a healthier alternative.
The recipe calls for butter, which is high in saturated fat. Using a healthier oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil, would be a better choice.

To further enhance the nutritional value of this dish, consider the following suggestions:

Increase the amount of vegetables used, such as adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli, to boost the fiber and vitamin content.
Use a higher ratio of vegetables to rice to create a more balanced meal.
Incorporate additional spices and herbs, like ginger, garlic, or cilantro, to add flavor without relying on high-sodium seasonings.
Opt for organic, free-range eggs to ensure higher quality and more nutritious eggs.
Serve the fried rice with a side of leafy greens or a fresh salad to round out the meal with even more nutrients.

Editor's Opinion on This Leftover Turkey Fried Rice Recipe

This leftover turkey fried rice recipe is a fantastic way to repurpose Thanksgiving leftovers. The combination of tender turkey, savory soy sauce, and aromatic sesame oil creates a delicious and satisfying dish. The addition of eggs adds a rich and creamy texture, while the peas and carrots provide a pop of color and freshness. The recipe is simple to prepare and yields a flavorful meal that will impress your family and friends. It's a great way to enjoy the flavors of the holiday season in a new and exciting way.

Enhance Your Leftover Turkey Fried Rice Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears lightly seasoned with salt and pepper, a perfect complement to the savory fried rice.

Garlic Green Beans: Crisp green beans sautéed with garlic and a hint of red pepper flakes, adding a pop of flavor to your meal.

Pineapple Salsa: Fresh pineapple chunks mixed with diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, providing a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory fried rice.

Delicious Alternatives to Leftover Turkey Fried Rice

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is perfect for a cozy night in. The tender beef and flavorful vegetables make for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Citrus Grilled Chicken: This zesty grilled chicken is bursting with fresh citrus flavors. It's the perfect dish for a summer barbecue or a light and refreshing dinner.

Mango Coconut Pudding: Indulge in this creamy and tropical dessert that combines the sweetness of mango with the richness of coconut. It's a delightful treat for any occasion.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for Leftover Turkey Fried Rice

Appetizers:

Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Indulge in the perfect combination of sweet and savory with these bacon-wrapped dates. The crispy bacon complements the sweetness of the dates, creating a burst of flavor in every bite.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. The savory filling and tender mushroom caps create a mouthwatering combination that will leave your guests craving for more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a rich and decadent chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey chocolate when you cut into it. The contrast between the moist cake and the molten center creates a truly irresistible dessert experience.

Apple Crisp: Savor the comforting flavors of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples topped with a crispy, buttery oat crumble. This classic dessert is best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

Why trust this Leftover Turkey Fried Rice Recipe:

This recipe is a delicious way to repurpose leftover turkey into a flavorful and satisfying meal. With the use of soy sauce and sesame oil, this dish captures the essence of traditional fried rice while incorporating the rich and savory flavors of the turkey. The addition of peas and carrots provides a pop of color and a hint of sweetness, enhancing the overall appeal of the dish. The step-by-step instructions ensure that the fried rice turns out perfectly every time, making it a reliable and enjoyable choice for utilizing leftover turkey.

Want to share your own twist on this Leftover Turkey Fried Rice Recipe or discuss other creative ways to use up Thanksgiving leftovers? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

Can I use other meats instead of turkey?

Yes, you can definitely use other meats such as chicken, pork, or even shrimp to make this fried rice recipe.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Absolutely! You can use fresh vegetables instead of frozen. Just make sure to chop them into small, bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this fried rice ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in a pan or microwave before serving.

Can I add more seasoning to the fried rice?

Of course! Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add more soy sauce, a dash of garlic powder, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice for a healthier twist. Just keep in mind that brown rice may have a slightly longer cooking time and may require a bit more liquid.