Braised Ground Turkey with Almonds

Makes 4 servings

This is a simple way to cook ground turkey so that it's extra tasty and moist. A simple side dish of steamed lentils or a bounteous spinach salad would be great accompaniments.

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound ground turkey
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, chopped
2 Roma tomatoes, diced
2 tablespoons almonds, toasted and chopped
1 bay leaf
Salt and freshly ground pepper

  1. Heat a large saucepot over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the olive oil. Crumble the turkey into the pan and sear until it’s brown on one side.
  2. Remove the turkey from the pot. Add the onion, garlic, tomatoes, almonds, and bay leaf; sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, until the vegetables soften up. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Add the turkey back to the pot along with enough water to barely cover the meat. Bring to a simmer. Continue simmering for about 30 minutes, or until the liquid has mostly evaporated and the flavors have combined.

Travis H. Bettinson, Personal Chef, Seattle, Washington www.junipfoods.com