Healthy Ground Turkey Over Rice

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Hey there, friends!

Looking for a simple and hearty meal? I’ve got you covered!

Today, I’m excited to share my ground turkey over rice recipe.

It’s quick to whip up and packed with flavor.

Plus, it’s healthy and filling—perfect for busy weeknights.

Let’s dive into cooking this tasty dish together!

ground turkey over rice
Image: mollyshomeguide.com / Photographer Molly
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Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey can be replaced with ground chicken, lean ground beef, or crumbled firm tofu for vegetarian options. These alternatives provide similar protein content and can be cooked using the same method. For tofu, press it first to remove excess moisture.

Rice can be substituted with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or quinoa for added protein and fiber. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as cauliflower rice cooks faster than regular rice.

Honey can be replaced with maple syrup or agave nectar for vegan alternatives, or a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract for those watching their sugar intake. Use slightly less of these substitutes, as they tend to be sweeter than honey. When using sugar-free options, add a small amount of water to maintain the sauce consistency.

Preparation Time 15-20 minutes
Cooking Time 25-30 minutes
Total Time 40-50 minutes
Level of Difficulty Easy

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

  • Calories: 1600-1800
  • Protein: 120-130 g
  • Fat: 50-60 g
  • Carbohydrates: 200-220 g

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 2 cups uncooked rice (white or brown)
  • 4 cloves garlic, grated or minced
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Green onions for garnish
  • Sesame seeds for garnish

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients and Cook Rice

Start by gathering all your ingredients: 1 pound of ground turkey, 2 cups of uncooked rice (either white or brown), 4 cloves of garlic (grated or minced), 1/4 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of low sodium soy sauce, 2 teaspoons of sesame oil, 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper, and green onions and sesame seeds for garnish.

Prepare the rice according to the package instructions, so it’s ready by the time the turkey is cooked.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey

Heat a pot over medium heat without adding any oil.

Once the pot is hot, add the ground turkey and cook it until it turns golden brown.

Break apart the turkey with a fork as it cooks to ensure even browning and no large chunks remain.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

While the ground turkey is browning, prepare the sauce.

In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of low sodium soy sauce, 1/4 cup of honey, 2 teaspoons of sesame oil, 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, the grated or minced garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger.

Stir these ingredients together until they’re well combined, forming a cohesive sauce.

Step 4: Combine the Turkey and Sauce

Once the ground turkey is perfectly browned, pour the prepared sauce over it.

Stir the mixture well, allowing the turkey to be thoroughly coated in the sauce.

Let the mixture cook for a few minutes so the flavors merge and the sauce is absorbed, ensuring the turkey is well-marinated.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Serve the flavorful ground turkey over the freshly cooked rice.

Before serving, garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra punch of flavor and a touch of visual appeal.

ground turkey over rice
Image: mollyshomeguide.com / Photographer Molly
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ground turkey over rice
Image: mollyshomeguide.com / Photographer Molly
SAVE NOW

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