Description
Yes, turkey drumsticks are dark meat due to their higher myoglobin content, which gives them a darker color and richer flavor. Unlike turkey breast, drumsticks come from the active muscles of the bird, making them juicier, more flavorful, and slightly higher in fat. This dark meat is ideal for slow cooking, roasting, or grilling, as it remains tender and moist during cooking.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 turkey drumsticks
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional for extra flavor)
- ½ cup chicken or turkey broth (for roasting)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the Drumsticks: Pat turkey drumsticks dry with a paper towel. Rub them with olive oil or butter and coat evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and onion powder.
- Roasting: Place drumsticks in a roasting pan with ½ cup broth at the bottom to keep them moist.
- Bake: Roast for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C) (use a meat thermometer for accuracy).
- Crisping the Skin (Optional): For extra crispiness, broil for 3-5 minutes at the end of cooking.
- Rest & Serve: Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving for the juiciest results.
Notes
- Dark meat turkey drumsticks are richer in flavor and more forgiving than white meat, staying moist even if slightly overcooked.
- Best cooked slow-roasted, braised, grilled, or smoked to enhance their deep, savory taste.
- Marinating overnight boosts flavor and tenderness.
- Pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a tangy cranberry sauce.
- Leftovers? Shred the meat for tacos, sandwiches, or soups.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 turkey drumstick (without skin)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg