30 Minute Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry Recipe

Did you know that ground turkey is a versatile protein that cooks quickly and is lower in fat than many beef options? This makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights when you need a meal fast. In this recipe, you’ll learn how to whip up a flavorful teriyaki stir fry in just 30 minutes. Let’s explore the steps to create this satisfying dish that can easily fit into your weekly dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, this Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry recipe is a fantastic choice. It takes just 15 to 20 minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for busy days. You can use any stir-fry veggies you like, allowing you to customize it to your taste. The homemade teriyaki sauce is easy to whip up with just a few ingredients, and ground turkey offers a lean and healthy protein option packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Plus, the dish is low in calories and fat, providing a balanced meal. Ground turkey is a lean protein source that encourages increased vegetable intake through stir fry preparation. With simple ingredients and great flavor, this recipe is a cost-effective and practical solution for your dinner needs.

History

Teriyaki has a fascinating history that stretches back to Japan, where it originated as a cooking method involving soy sauce, sake, and sugar.

Initially, this technique was used mainly for grilling fish, creating a protective layer that helped preserve it. Over time, teriyaki expanded to include other proteins like chicken, beef, and pork, traditionally grilled to caramelize the sauce.

Japanese immigrants brought teriyaki to the United States, where it evolved, particularly in Hawaii, substituting sugar for sweet wine. Seattle’s influence was pivotal in shaping the dish’s contemporary identity, particularly through the establishment of numerous teriyaki restaurants in the region.

In Seattle, Toshihiro Kasahara opened Toshi’s Teriyaki in the 1970s, popularizing the dish further.

As teriyaki spread globally, variations emerged, making it a staple in many cuisines beyond its Japanese roots.

Recipe

Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry is a delicious and quick meal that brings together lean protein and vibrant vegetables in a savory sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights as it can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it both a nutritious and convenient option for dinner.

The combination of ground turkey and a colorful array of vegetables not only makes it visually appealing but also guarantees a healthy balance of flavors and nutrients. In this recipe, the homemade teriyaki sauce elevates the dish, offering a sweet and savory profile that complements the turkey and veggies beautifully.

You can easily customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand, making this stir fry a versatile choice for any occasion. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice, and you have a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground turkey
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup sliced carrots
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons avocado oil
– 1/2 cup broth (chicken or vegetable)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon arrowroot or cornstarch (for thickening)
– Prepared rice (for serving)

Instructions:

Heat avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the turkey is browned and fully cooked.
Add the broccoli, sliced carrots, red bell pepper, and onion to the skillet. Stir the mixture and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, or until the vegetables are slightly tender.
In a small bowl, whisk together the broth, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, fresh ginger, garlic, and arrowroot (or cornstarch) until well combined.
Pour the teriyaki sauce mixture over the turkey and vegetables in the skillet. Cook for another 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens and coats the turkey and veggies nicely.
Serve the stir fry over prepared rice and garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and sriracha if desired.

For best results, make certain to prepare all your ingredients before you start cooking, as stir frying is a quick process. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or proteins based on your preference.

This dish also stores well, making it a great option for meal prep—just keep the sauce and cooked ingredients separate until you’re ready to eat!

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, this Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry stands out as a nutritious and convenient option for dinner, especially on busy weeknights.

With an average calorie count of 265 to 295 per serving, it offers a filling meal without excessive calories. Each serving packs in about 32 to 38 grams of protein, balanced with moderate fat content, making it a smart choice for health-conscious diners. Additionally, the recipe yields a large batch, making it perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

The stir fry is quick to prepare, typically taking under 30 minutes, and is highly versatile. You can serve it with rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps, adapting the recipe with your favorite vegetables or sauces.

This dish not only satisfies hunger but also supports a balanced diet, making it a go-to recipe for any night.

FAQ

Have questions about making the perfect Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry? Let’s break it down!

Key ingredients include ground turkey, avocado oil, onion, garlic, and assorted vegetables like broccoli and carrots.

Start by cooking the turkey and onions in oil, then add your veggies. For the teriyaki sauce, whisk together ingredients like soy sauce, honey, and ginger, and thicken it with cornstarch.

You can customize the sauce by adjusting sweetness or using coconut aminos for a gluten-free option. This meal serves about three and packs in lean protein and healthy fats. Fast preparation is a great advantage of this recipe, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Feel free to experiment with different veggies or serve it over rice, topped with green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor!