Turkey and Red Pepper Hash
Sweet and Spicy Turkey and Red Pepper Hash
Transform your dinner routine with this vibrant turkey and red pepper hash! Inspired by the bold flavors of a classic picadillo, this dish delivers the perfect balance of sweet and spicy in every bite.
Packed with tender ground turkey, smoky spices, and caramelized vegetables, this hash is a versatile recipe you’ll want to keep on hand. Serve it in warm corn tortillas for quick tacos or as a flavorful filling for enchiladas or quesadillas.
Whether you’re hosting a casual taco night or prepping meals for the week, this one-skillet wonder is both easy to make and full of irresistible flavor.
Turkey and Red Pepper Hash: Ingredients That Make the Magic
- Ground Turkey: The heart of the dish, offering a lean yet hearty base that absorbs the rich, smoky spices beautifully.
- Red Bell Peppers: Vibrant and slightly sweet, they add a pop of color and a crisp texture to every bite.
- Tomatoes with Juice: Blended into a smooth sauce, they bring a tangy richness that ties the flavors together.
- Red Onion: Finely chopped and sautéed for a sweet, caramelized depth.
- Spices: A bold medley of cinnamon, chili powder, and cloves infuses the hash with warmth and a hint of spice.
- Rice Vinegar: Adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the peppers and tomatoes.
Recipe Tips
- Perfect the Spice Blend: The spices in this recipe—cinnamon, chili powder, and cloves—are key to its bold flavor. For maximum depth, toast the ground spices in the skillet for 30 seconds before adding the turkey. This technique releases their essential oils, intensifying their aroma and taste.
- Achieve Optimal Texture: When browning the ground turkey, press it into an even layer in the skillet and let it sear undisturbed for a couple of minutes before stirring. This step helps develop a flavorful crust on the meat, which enhances the overall texture and taste of the dish.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the chili powder to match your heat preference. If you love spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or some chopped fresh jalapeño. For a milder dish, opt for a sweet chili powder or reduce the quantity slightly.
What to Serve with Turkey and Red Pepper Hash
- Classic Mexican Rice: A side of fluffy, seasoned Mexican rice complements the sweet and smoky flavors of the hash. The rice helps soak up the savory tomato sauce, making each bite more satisfying.
- Creamy Guacamole: The richness of guacamole balances the bold spices in the hash. Serve it as a topping for your tacos or alongside as a creamy dip.
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with a lime-cilantro vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty hash. Toss in ingredients like lettuce, avocado, radishes, and cherry tomatoes for a vibrant side dish.
FAQ
1. Can I use a different protein instead of turkey?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based crumbles for the turkey. Adjust the cooking time slightly based on the protein’s fat content.
2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the ground turkey with lentils or crumbled tofu. For lentils, cook them beforehand, and for tofu, press and crumble it before adding to the skillet.
3. What type of tortillas work best?
Corn tortillas are traditional and pair beautifully with the flavors of the hash. However, you can also use flour tortillas if you prefer a softer texture.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, and serve fresh tortillas for the best experience.
Turkey and Red Pepper Hash
Ingredients
- 1 28-ounce can of tomatoes, including juice, blended smooth
- 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 medium red onion finely diced
- 2 red bell peppers cut into small (1/4 inch) cubes
- 2 large garlic cloves minced
- 10 black peppercorns freshly ground
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons medium-hot chili powder
- 4 cloves ground (or 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves)
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- Salt to taste
- For the Serving
- 12 to 16 corn tortillas
- 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomato BaseUsing a food processor or blender, blend the canned tomatoes along with their juice until a smooth consistency is achieved. Set this aside for later use.
- Sauté the VegetablesHeat the canola oil in a large, heavy-bottomed nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and cook while stirring until softened, approximately 3 to 5 minutes. Introduce the diced red bell peppers, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Continue cooking and stirring until the vegetables are crisp-tender, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Turkey and Add SpicesPlace the ground turkey into the skillet and season it with salt, freshly ground black pepper, cinnamon, chili powder, and ground cloves. Increase the heat to medium-high. Flatten the turkey into a single layer in the pan and allow it to sear undisturbed for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir, press down again, and repeat the process until the meat is uniformly browned.
- Incorporate the Tomato Mixture and SimmerPour in the puréed tomatoes and rice vinegar. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook uncovered, stirring frequently, until the tomato sauce reduces and develops a slight caramelization, approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Remove from heat.
- ServeSpoon the hash onto warm corn tortillas and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Alternatively, use the hash as a filling for enchiladas, quesadillas, or stuffed vegetables.
