Twilight Time Turkey Patties and Cranberry Sauce

The memory is etched in my mind: Thanksgiving at my grandmother’s cozy farmhouse. The air, crisp with autumn, carried the aroma of roasted turkey and cinnamon. But amidst the traditional fare, one dish always stood out – these unassuming turkey patties, bathed in a tart, vibrant cranberry sauce. They were my grandfather’s favorite, and he’d always sneak an extra one when he thought no one was looking. To this day, that sweet and savory combination transports me back to that bustling kitchen, filled with warmth, laughter, and the comforting embrace of family.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Dietary Type: Adaptable (see variations)

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup pecan pieces
• 1 cup instant potato flakes
• 1 1/3 lbs ground turkey
• 1 small white onion, grated
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh flat leaf parsley
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves stripped from stem and chopped
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 (16 ounce) can whole berry cranberry sauce

Equipment Needed

• Food processor
• Shallow dish
• Large bowl
• Handheld grater
• Nonstick skillet

Instructions

1. First, prepare the pecan-potato coating. Place the pecan pieces in a food processor and grind them until they are finely chopped. You don’t want a pecan butter, just small pieces. Transfer the ground pecans to a shallow dish.
2. Add the instant potato flakes to the shallow dish with the ground pecans and mix them together thoroughly. Set aside. This mixture will act as a flavorful and slightly crispy coating for the turkey patties.
3. Now, prepare the turkey mixture. Place the ground turkey in a large bowl.
4. Take the small white onion and, using a handheld grater, grate it directly over the bowl of ground turkey. The onion juice will add moisture and flavor to the patties.
5. Add the chopped fresh flat leaf parsley, the chopped fresh thyme leaves, poultry seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the bowl with the turkey and onion.
6. Using your hands, gently mix all the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough patties.
7. Divide the turkey mixture into 6 equal portions. Form each portion into a patty, about 1/2 inch thick.
8. Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the patties to ensure they get a good sear.
9. One at a time, coat each patty in the potato-nut mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres.
10. Carefully place the coated patties in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in batches.
11. Cook the patties for 5 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
12. Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
13. Serve the turkey patties immediately with plenty of whole berry cranberry sauce.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, consider using toasted pecans. Simply toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant, then grind as directed.
• If you don’t have fresh thyme, you can substitute 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme.
• To prevent the patties from sticking to the skillet, make sure the skillet is well-heated before adding the oil and patties.
• If you prefer a smoother cranberry sauce, you can pulse the whole berry cranberry sauce in a food processor for a few seconds.
• Make ahead: The turkey patties can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Coat them in the potato-nut mixture just before cooking.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these delicious turkey patties hot, straight from the skillet, alongside a generous dollop of whole berry cranberry sauce. They make a fantastic main course for a weeknight dinner or a lighter alternative to traditional Thanksgiving fare. Leftover patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Avoid leaving them at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	371.4 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	146 g	39%
Total Fat	16.3 g	25%
Saturated Fat	3.2 g	16%
Cholesterol	79.7 mg	26%
Sodium	127.4 mg	5%
Total Carbohydrate	38.3 g	12%
Dietary Fiber	2 g	8%
Sugars	29.9 g	119%
Protein	19.1 g	38%

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the instant potato flakes with gluten-free potato flakes or a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative. Ensure your poultry seasoning is also gluten-free.
• Lower-Fat: Use ground turkey breast instead of ground turkey, which usually contains dark meat and skin.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the turkey mixture for a little heat.
• Herby: Experiment with different herbs in the turkey mixture, such as sage, rosemary, or oregano.
• Vegetarian Option: While this recipe is centered around turkey, a similar patty could be made using plant-based ground “meat” substitutes. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce?
A: Absolutely! You can make your own cranberry sauce using fresh or frozen cranberries. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness to your liking.

Q: Can I grill these turkey patties instead of cooking them in a skillet?
A: Yes, grilling is a great option! Just be sure to preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Q: Can I freeze the cooked turkey patties?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked patties for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: What can I serve with these turkey patties besides cranberry sauce?
A: These patties are versatile! Try serving them with mashed potatoes, green beans, a side salad, or even on a bun as a turkey burger.

Q: The potato-nut coating is falling off while cooking. What am I doing wrong?
A: Make sure the patties are slightly damp when you coat them with the potato-nut mixture. Press the mixture firmly onto the patties to help it adhere. Also, ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the patties.

Final Thoughts

These Twilight Time Turkey Patties and Cranberry Sauce are more than just a recipe; they’re a taste of home, a connection to cherished memories, and a delightful way to elevate your everyday meals. I encourage you to try this recipe and create your own cherished moments around the table. Feel free to experiment with the variations and substitutions to make it your own. And don’t forget to share your feedback and any delicious pairings you discover! Enjoy!