Turkey dark meat is a delicious and nutritious food option that yields around 1 unit (from 1 lb ready-to-cook turkey). Roasted to perfection, this tasty meat is perfect for quick and easy meals. With 147 calories per serving, it provides a good balance of nutrients that are essential for the body.
In addition to its rich flavor, turkey dark meat is a great source of protein and essential minerals that are necessary for the body to function properly. It is also low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats.
If you're looking for a healthy and delicious meat option, turkey dark meat is a great choice. In this article, we'll explore its nutritional content and some recipe ideas that you can try at home.
Caloric Content per Serving
One serving of roasted turkey dark meat (3 ounces) contains approximately 147 calories. This value may vary slightly based on the way it is cooked, seasoning, etc. The calorie content of turkey dark meat is relatively low compared to other protein sources like beef, pork, or lamb, making it an excellent option for those watching their calories or trying to lose weight.
Protein Content per Serving
Turkey dark meat is a great source of protein, with one serving (3 ounces) containing around 22 grams. This high protein content makes it an ideal food option for muscle repair and growth. In addition to its high protein value, turkey dark meat is also rich in essential amino acids that the body needs but cannot produce on its own.
Fat Content per Serving
Turkey dark meat is relatively high in fat, with one serving (3 ounces) containing approximately 8 grams. However, the type of fat in turkey dark meat is mainly unsaturated, which is a healthier option for the body. In addition to being a good source of unsaturated fat, turkey dark meat also contains omega-3 fatty acids that are beneficial for the heart and brain.
Carbohydrate Content per Serving
Turkey dark meat is low in carbohydrates, with one serving (3 ounces) containing less than 1 gram of carbs. This makes it an excellent option for those on a low-carb or ketogenic diet. In addition to being low in carbs, turkey dark meat is also free of sugar, making it a great option for diabetics or those watching their sugar intake.
Minerals Content per Serving
Turkey dark meat is rich in various essential minerals that the body needs to function properly. One serving (3 ounces) contains around 16% of the daily value of iron, 8% of the daily value of calcium, and 6% of the daily value of potassium. In addition to these minerals, turkey dark meat also contains smaller amounts of magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and other important minerals.
Vitamins Content per Serving
Turkey dark meat is a good source of various essential vitamins that are necessary for the body. One serving (3 ounces) contains around 20% of the daily value of niacin, 12% of the daily value of vitamin B6, and 8% of the daily value of riboflavin. In addition to these vitamins, turkey dark meat also contains smaller amounts of vitamin E, vitamin K, and other essential vitamins.
Sodium Content per Serving
Turkey dark meat is relatively low in sodium, with one serving (3 ounces) containing around 60 milligrams. This makes it a great option for those watching their sodium intake. However, the sodium content may vary depending on the way it is cooked and seasoned, so it's essential to check the label or consult a nutritionist to know the exact sodium value.
Cholesterol Content per Serving
Turkey dark meat is relatively low in cholesterol, with one serving (3 ounces) containing around 70 milligrams. This makes it an excellent option for those with high cholesterol levels or looking to maintain healthy cholesterol levels. While turkey dark meat is naturally low in cholesterol, it's essential to be mindful of the way it's cooked and seasoned, as certain methods may increase the cholesterol content.
Serving Size Recommendation
The recommended serving size for turkey dark meat is around 3 ounces, which yields approximately 147 calories. However, this may vary based on individual calorie needs, fitness goals, and other factors. It's important to consult a registered dietitian or nutritionist to determine the ideal serving size based on one's specific needs.
Recipe Ideas
Turkey dark meat can be cooked in various ways, making it a versatile ingredient in several recipes. Some of the recipe ideas that you can try at home are turkey chili, turkey burgers, turkey and vegetable stir-fry, turkey and sweet potato hash, and more. If you're looking for more recipe inspiration, you can consult various online resources or cookbooks that specialize in healthy and tasty turkey dishes.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Cooked Roasted Turkey Dark Meat
1. How many calories are in 1 unit of cooked roasted turkey dark meat?
1 unit (yield from 1 lb ready-to-cook turkey) of cooked roasted turkey dark meat contains 147 calories.
2. Is cooked roasted turkey dark meat healthy?
Cooked roasted turkey dark meat is a good source of protein and contains essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, making it a healthy choice in moderation. However, it is higher in calories and fat than the white meat of the turkey.
3. Can cooked roasted turkey dark meat be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze cooked roasted turkey dark meat. It is best to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.
4. How should cooked roasted turkey dark meat be stored in the refrigerator?
Cooked roasted turkey dark meat should be stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
5. How should cooked roasted turkey dark meat be reheated?
Cooked roasted turkey dark meat can be reheated in the oven or microwave. To reheat in the oven, preheat to 350°F, place the turkey in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes. To reheat in the microwave, place the turkey in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes.