If you're looking for a nutrient-dense source of protein, you might consider adding turkey hearts to your diet. One cup of simmered turkey hearts contains approximately 188 calories, making it a low-calorie way to boost your protein intake. But that's just the start of the nutritional benefits of this organ meat.
Turkey hearts are an excellent source of protein, with a 1-cup serving containing about 32 grams. They are also low in fat and carbohydrates, making them a great choice for those who are watching their calorie intake. Additionally, turkey hearts are rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and vitamins B12 and D.
In this article, we'll explore how to prepare and cook turkey hearts, as well as the nutritional benefits of including them in your diet.
Calories in 1 Cup Turkey Heart Simmered
As mentioned earlier, a 1-cup serving of simmered turkey heart contains approximately 188 calories. This is a relatively low-calorie food, making it a great choice for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Protein Content in 1 Cup Turkey Heart Simmered
One cup of simmered turkey hearts contains approximately 32 grams of protein. This makes it an excellent source of protein for those who follow a high-protein diet or who are looking to consume more protein for athletic or fitness purposes.
Fat Content in 1 Cup Turkey Heart Simmered
Turkey hearts are a relatively low-fat food, with one cup of simmered hearts containing only about 4 grams of fat. This makes it a great choice for those who are trying to limit their fat intake for weight loss or other health reasons.
Carbohydrate Content in 1 Cup Turkey Heart Simmered
One cup of simmered turkey hearts contains only about 1 gram of carbohydrates. This makes it a great choice for those who follow a low-carbohydrate diet or who are looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake for weight loss or other health reasons.
Fiber Content in 1 Cup Turkey Heart Simmered
While turkey hearts are a good source of protein and other nutrients, they are not a significant source of dietary fiber. A 1-cup serving of simmered turkey hearts contains only about 1 gram of fiber.
Vitamin Content in 1 Cup Turkey Heart Simmered
Turkey hearts are a great source of several important vitamins, including: Vitamin B12: One cup of simmered turkey hearts contains more than 100% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin B12. Vitamin D: Turkey hearts are also a good source of vitamin D, which is important for bone health and overall immune function.
Mineral Content in 1 Cup Turkey Heart Simmered
In addition to vitamins, turkey hearts are also a great source of several important minerals, including: Iron: One cup of simmered turkey hearts contains nearly 60% of the recommended daily intake of iron, which is important for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Zinc: Turkey hearts are also a good source of zinc, which is important for immune system function and wound healing.
Health Benefits of 1 Cup Turkey Heart Simmered
Including turkey hearts in your diet can provide several health benefits. Some of the key benefits include: Improved Heart Health: Turkey hearts contain several nutrients, including vitamin B6 and potassium, that have been shown to improve heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease. Better Immune System Function: The vitamin C and zinc in turkey hearts can help to boost the immune system and reduce the risk of illness and infection.
Cooking Turkey Heart
Before cooking turkey hearts, you will need to clean and rinse them thoroughly. To cook turkey hearts, you can sauté them in a pan with butter or oil, or you can simmer them in broth or water for a flavorful and nutritious meal. Depending on the recipe, you can also marinate turkey hearts overnight for added flavor.
Preparing Turkey Heart for Cooking
Before cooking turkey hearts, you will need to remove the outer membrane and trim away any excess fat. To remove the outer membrane, you can use a sharp knife to carefully cut away the tough, fibrous tissue. It can be helpful to slice the turkey hearts in half lengthwise before cooking to ensure that they cook evenly and thoroughly.
Turkey hearts are a nutrient-dense source of protein and other important vitamins and minerals. They are a great choice for anyone looking to improve their overall health and well-being through diet.
5 FAQ About Simmered Turkey Hearts
1. What are the Health Benefits of Turkey Hearts?
Turkey hearts are high in protein and low in fat, making them a great addition to a healthy diet. They are also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
2. How do you cook turkey hearts?
To simmer turkey hearts, place them in a pot with enough water to cover them by about an inch. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the hearts are tender.
3. Are there any potential risks of eating turkey hearts?
While turkey hearts are generally considered safe to eat, some people may have an allergic reaction to them. Additionally, consuming too many animal organs, including hearts, can lead to a buildup of uric acid in the body, which can contribute to gout.
4. Can you substitute turkey hearts for other types of meat?
Yes, you can use turkey hearts in place of other types of meat in many recipes. They have a mild flavor that pairs well with a variety of seasonings and spices.
5. What are some recipes that use turkey hearts?
Some popular recipes that use turkey hearts include grilled turkey heart skewers, turkey heart stew, and roasted turkey heart with root vegetables. You can also chop them up and use them as a protein source in salads, omelets, and other dishes.