Are you looking for a flavorful and exotic twist on traditional burgers? Look no further! Ground turkey is a versatile ingredient that can be used to create a wide variety of delicious Asian-inspired dishes. From spicy Korean lettuce wraps to Thai basil stir-fries, Chinese five-spice noodle dishes, and Japanese okonomiyaki, the possibilities are endless.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering ground turkey recipes from across Asia that will transport your taste buds on a culinary journey around the world. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and adventurous or comforting and familiar, we’ve got you covered with these easy-to-make and satisfying recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
Spicy Korean Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps
Add a spicy kick to your wraps with this flavorful and healthy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8-10 lettuce leaves
– Sliced cucumber, carrots, and green onions for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add garlic, Gochujang, soy sauce, and black pepper to the turkey mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Lay a lettuce leaf flat on a plate or wrap. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the spicy turkey mixture onto the center of the lettuce.
4. Top with your desired vegetables (cucumber, carrots, green onions).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Basil Ground Turkey Stir-Fry
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this quick and easy stir-fry recipe, featuring ground turkey, fragrant basil, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 tablespoons Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted peanuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and snow peas; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
5. Stir in Thai basil, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted peanuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Five-Spice Ground Turkey Noodles
A twist on traditional noodle dishes, this recipe combines the savory flavors of Chinese five-spice with the comforting warmth of ground turkey and noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 8 oz soba or udon noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, 30 seconds.
3. Add the ground turkey, five-spice powder, soy sauce, and chicken broth. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked noodles and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vietnamese Ground Turkey Spring Rolls
A refreshing twist on traditional spring rolls, these bite-sized treats combine the savory flavors of ground turkey with crunchy vegetables and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped cabbage
– 1/2 cup chopped carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 20 spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section or international aisle of most supermarkets)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped cabbage, carrots, scallions, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointing towards you. Place about 1/4 cup of the turkey mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
4. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None required! These spring rolls are best served fresh, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for later use.
Japanese Ground Turkey Okonomiyaki
Okonomiyaki is a popular Japanese savory pancake originating from the Hiroshima region. This recipe gives a unique twist by using ground turkey instead of traditional pork and seafood.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup grated yamaimo (Japanese mountain yam)
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
– 1/4 cup diced Shiitake mushrooms
– 1/4 cup Okonomiyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, flour, water, yamaimo, green onions, and mushrooms. Mix well until just combined.
2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or okonomiyaki grill with about 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat.
4. Place a portion of the turkey mixture in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the bottom is golden brown.
5. Flip the pancake and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until cooked through.
6. Serve with Okonomiyaki sauce, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Teriyaki Ground Turkey Rice Bowls
Teriyaki Ground Turkey Rice Bowls Recipe
Savor the flavors of Asia with this quick and easy Teriyaki Ground Turkey Rice Bowls recipe! This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the turkey mixture. Stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork. Divide among bowls.
6. Top with the teriyaki ground turkey mixture and mixed vegetables.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Szechuan Ground Turkey Mapo Tofu
This Szechuan-inspired dish is a creative twist on the classic mapo tofu, substituting ground turkey for traditional ground pork. The result is a flavorful and spicy stir-fry that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and crushed
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (depending on desired level of heat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ground turkey, garlic, onion, and soy sauce. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the turkey mixture and cook, breaking up with a spatula, until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and 1 tablespoon water until smooth. Add to the wok and stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add remaining oil, tofu, Szechuan peppercorns, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry until combined and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Turkey and Cabbage Dumplings
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional dumplings, this recipe combines ground turkey with sautéed cabbage and aromatic spices for a delightful comfort food dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium cabbage, chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped cabbage, onion, garlic, caraway seeds, and paprika to the skillet. Cook until the cabbage is tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour and chicken broth to make a slurry. Add the butter to the skillet with the turkey mixture and stir in the slurry until combined.
4. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions and shape each portion into a dumpling.
5. Cook the dumplings in boiling water for 10-12 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Ground Turkey Larb Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional Thai larb, this recipe uses ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner and healthier option. This salad is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts or cashews for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Add the sauce mixture to the cooked turkey and stir to combine.
4. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cilantro, and mint leaves.
5. Top the salad with the turkey mixture and garnish with chopped peanuts or cashews if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Korean Ground Turkey Bibimbap
Bibimbap, a popular Korean rice bowl dish, gets a delicious twist with the addition of ground turkey and an assortment of colorful vegetables. This recipe combines the flavors of Korea with the comfort of familiar turkey and rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (zucchini, carrots, bell peppers)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 eggs, beaten (for serving)
– Optional: kimchi, green onions, and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the turkey mixture. Stir well.
4. In a separate pan, cook mixed vegetables over medium heat until tender.
5. Serve cooked rice in individual bowls. Top with ground turkey mixture, vegetables, and a beaten egg (or two).
6. Garnish with kimchi, green onions, and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ground Turkey and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Get ready for a flavorful and nutritious meal with this simple stir-fry recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Ground Turkey Eggplant Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired stir-fry is a flavorful and nutritious meal option, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. With ground turkey adding protein punch and eggplant providing a meaty texture, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the turkey from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
5. Add the sliced eggplant and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Add the cooked turkey back into the skillet along with the onion, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Turkey and Rice Paper Rolls
A delicious and easy-to-make snack or meal that combines the flavors of ground turkey, rice, and vegetables wrapped in a crispy paper roll.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Rice paper wrappers (about 20-25 sheets)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the cooked rice, mixed vegetables, soy sauce, and olive oil to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes or until the ingredients are well combined and heated through.
4. Prepare the rice paper wrappers according to package instructions (usually by soaking them in water).
5. Place a small spoonful of the turkey and rice mixture onto the center of each wrapper, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
6. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Place the rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the wrappers are crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vietnamese Ground Turkey Pho Soup
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Vietnam with a twist on traditional pho soup, using ground turkey instead of beef. The result is a hearty and aromatic broth filled with noodles, herbs, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 8 oz rice noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
5. Add the chicken broth, water, ginger, and fish sauce (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the soup hot, garnished with cilantro and noodles on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Ground Turkey Gyoza
Gyoza is a popular Japanese dish that consists of pan-fried or steamed dumplings filled with a savory mixture of ground turkey, vegetables, and spices. This recipe uses ground turkey as an alternative to traditional pork or beef fillings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Gyoza wrappers (about 20-25 wrappers)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped cabbage, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
2. Lay a gyoza wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the turkey mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in a small amount of water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and press to seal.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
Cooking Time:
Pan-fry gyoza in hot oil until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side). Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ground Turkey and Kimchi Fried Rice
Get ready for a flavor bomb with this simple and savory recipe that combines the comfort of fried rice with the boldness of kimchi.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked ground turkey
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the cooked ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Add the chopped kimchi, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together until the flavors are well combined.
6. Push the turkey mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in 1-2 eggs (depending on size) and scramble them until cooked through.
7. Mix the eggs with the turkey mixture.
8. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry everything together until the rice is well coated with the flavors.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
10. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Ground Turkey Green Curry
A flavorful and aromatic Thai-inspired curry made with ground turkey, green curry paste, and a blend of spices. Serve over steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a delicious and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 tbsp green curry paste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh Thai basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the green curry paste and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
4. Add the garlic, coconut milk, water, fish sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with Thai basil leaves and serve over steamed jasmine rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Turkey and Glass Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad combines the savory flavors of ground turkey with the crunch of glass noodles, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup glass noodles (also known as cellophane noodles)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the glass noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the green onions, bell peppers, soy sauce, and olive oil to the skillet. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Combine the cooked noodles and turkey mixture in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Ground Turkey Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki is a popular Korean street food dish made with chewy rice cakes and spicy sauce. This recipe puts a twist on the classic by using ground turkey instead of pork, making it a great option for those looking for a leaner alternative.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 8 oz rice cakes, cut into bite-sized pieces
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the water, Gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the rice cakes to the skillet and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until they are fully coated in the sauce.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Turkey and Scallion Pancakes
Savory pancakes filled with ground turkey and scallions, perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped scallions, flour, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Spray with cooking spray or brush with oil.
3. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the turkey mixture into the skillet.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until pancakes are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, sour cream, or chives.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes per batch (depending on the number of pancakes)
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 delicious Asian-inspired ground turkey recipes! From Korean-style lettuce wraps to Japanese okonomiyaki, and from Thai basil stir-fries to Vietnamese spring rolls, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to add bold flavors like Szechuan pepper and five-spice powder to your dishes. Try teriyaki ground turkey rice bowls or traditional Chinese eggplant stir-fry. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal to impress, these recipes will guide you through the process with ease and excitement.
