Talkin' Turkey!

Contrary to popular belief, Christmas and Thanksgiving are not the only suitable times to have some turkey in our lives. Alternately, we sometimes consume so much during those occasions, we almost don't want to see it for that subsequent time between the holidays. There are other ways of consuming the soothing and savory bird without having to finish off 14 lbs of it in every form from turkey hash, turkey casseroles, turkey sandwiches, did I mention turkey sandwiches :), turkey potpie, turkey and gravy, turkey salad, turkey lurkey, turkey and turkey, you get my drift. For an off season change of pace, consider smoked turkey wings and drumsticks. I have a simple and amazing recipe to get just enough turkey in your life to still look forward to his next visit. Comforting and relatively maintenance free, this recipe is perfect for a laid back, overcast day, when rain is just beyond the horizon, and pajama shorts, boxers and ragged t-shirts seem to be the attire of choice... Turkey in the Off Season 4 lbs. smoked turkey wings and/or drumsticks 3 cloves garlic, pressed or finely minced 2 stalks celery, cut into fifths 2 carrots, cut into thirds 1 large onions, quartered 1 bay leaf 1 soft chicken bouillon cube or 4 c. low sodium chicken broth water olive oil for drizzling Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper to taste In a dutch oven or heavy bottomed pot, heat olive oil to medium high. Add veggies and bouillon and cook until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add rinsed turkey parts and fill with water just covering (This is where you add the chicken broth and fill the rest of the way with water) Bring ingredients to a boil and reduce to medium. Cook, at a rolling simmer for several hours, until fork tender and meat is just short of falling off the bones. Be sure to check liquid levels periodically to keep meats submerged until the last 30 minutes of cooking. At which point, concentrate liquid by reducing to a jus that coats the wings and drumsticks. Season to taste as desired. Drizzle with olive oil to taste.. Serve with crusty bread and greens for a southern comfort feel and a smile to boot!!