Welcome to Roots Food Group, where we're dedicated to offering recipes that bring nutrition and flavor to your table. Today, we're excited to share a delightful dish that's sure to become a family favorite: Crispy Baked Turkey Tenders. This recipe is a wonderful alternative to the traditional fried tenders, offering a lighter yet equally satisfying taste experience. Let's dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delicious dish, then explore its history, benefits, and cultural relevance.
The Story Behind the Dish
Turkey tenders offer a leaner alternative to traditional chicken tenders, maintaining the crunch and satisfaction without the extra calories from frying. Using ingredients like panko bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese introduces a delightful texture and flavor, making it a dish that doesn't compromise on taste for health.
Benefits
Opting for baked turkey tenders over fried provides a meal lower in fat and calories. Turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, supporting muscle growth and repair. Incorporating a gluten-free option also makes this dish accessible to those with dietary restrictions.
Cultural Meaning
Like their chicken counterpart, Turkey tenders have become a staple in many cuisines, particularly American households. They represent comfort food that's versatile, kid-friendly, and suitable for various occasions. This baked version reflects a growing trend towards healthier eating without sacrificing the joy of indulging in your favorite foods.
The Recipe
Ingredients
• 2 boneless, skinless turkey breast
tenderloins or chicken tenderloins, cut into 6-8 strips
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs, option to use gluten-free panko bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp. Tempero Baiano seasoning, or your favorite seasoning
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; can use gluten-free flour
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
Directions
Step 1: Preheat oven to 425° F. Line a large, rimmed baking tray with foil and spray with baking spray. Set aside.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and spices. Sprinkle the flour out onto a plate in an even-ish layer. Line the flour, mayonnaise, and breadcrumb mixture next to each other. Take each turkey strip and coat both sides in flour. Use a butter knife to smear a light coating of mayonnaise on both sides of the turkey strip. Drop the strip into a crumb bowl and coat both sides thoroughly. Place the breaded turkey strips on a prepared baking pan and repeat the process with the rest of your turkey strips.
Step 3: Bake turkey strips in 425° F oven for 30 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown on top. Cooking time may differ depending on how thin and small you cut your strips.
In conclusion, Crispy Baked Turkey Tenders are more than just a meal; they're a testament to how classic dishes can be reinvented for a modern, health-conscious approach to eating. Whether served as a main dish, a snack, or an appetizer, these tenders are sure to delight diners seeking a combination of crunch, flavor, and nutrition.
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