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This Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry brings big flavor to the table in under thirty minutes. A sweet and savory homemade teriyaki sauce with a hint of orange brightens lean ground turkey and a pile of veggies for the kind of takeout-style meal that keeps everyone happy after a long day.
The first time I mixed in orange zest to homemade teriyaki sauce I knew it was a keeper. Everyone in my house went back for seconds and I have pulled this weeknight dinner out on repeat ever since.
Ingredients
- Ground turkey: Brings protein with less fat than beef and is easy to cook on busy nights. Look for turkey that is pink and cold with no off smell.
- Soy sauce: Gives bold umami flavor. Use a reduced sodium version if you want to control saltiness.
- Brown sugar: Adds that signature sweetness and helps the sauce get glossy. Choose fresh soft brown sugar.
- Honey: Layers in natural sweetness and flavor complexity. Local honey can add subtle floral notes.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are best for zingy sharpness.
- Fresh ginger: Gives warmth and a little fiery background. Choose firm ginger root with smooth skin.
- Corn starch: Thickens the sauce to the proper glaze. Make sure it is lump free for a glossy finish.
- Orange zest: Adds a fresh surprising note that makes the sauce pop. Use a firm bright orange and zest only the top layer.
- Sesame oil: Brings a rich nutty aroma and flavor. Toasted sesame oil gives even more depth. Smell for freshness.
- Broccoli florets: Offer bright green crunch and a hefty dose of nutrition. Fresh is best but frozen works well in a pinch.
- Onion: Adds mellow sweetness once sautéed. Choose a firm small onion with no soft spots.
- Shredded carrots: Provide color and subtle sweetness. Pre-shredded or grate them yourself for freshness.
- Salt and pepper: Brings balance to all the flavors. Use fresh ground pepper if you have it.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Teriyaki Sauce:
- Combine three quarters cup water soy sauce garlic ginger honey and brown sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil to let the flavors meld.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- In a small bowl whisk together one quarter cup water and corn starch until there are no lumps. Slowly pour this corn starch slurry into the simmering sauce while whisking. Cook just until the sauce thickens to a glossy glaze. Immediately stir in the orange zest and set sauce aside.
- Brown the Aromatics and Turkey:
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium high. Add diced onions and sauté for four minutes until they turn lightly golden and softened. Add ground turkey and cook breaking it up with a spoon until browned and no longer pink with an internal temperature of at least one hundred sixty five degrees. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the Vegetables:
- Stir in broccoli florets and shredded carrots. Cook for several minutes until the broccoli turns bright green and both vegetables are just fork tender yet crisp.
- Sauce and Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low and pour in the homemade teriyaki sauce. Stir to coat all ingredients well and simmer for three to five minutes to allow flavors to combine and sauce to cling to everything.
- Serve:
- Spoon the stir fry over hot cooked rice or try noodles or even make lettuce wraps. Garnish with extra orange zest or chopped green onions if desired.
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That hint of orange zest is my favorite part of this dish. My husband could always tell when I skipped it so now I never do. We once made this together when we were out of takeout options and the whole family declared it just as good as delivery.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you plan to freeze use a freezer safe bag and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the texture tender. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much after chilling.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground chicken or lean pork make excellent swaps for turkey if you want variety. Try beef for a richer take but drain any excess fat for best results. If you are out of broccoli use bell peppers snap peas or zucchini. Coconut aminos can substitute for soy sauce if you need a lower sodium or gluten free option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this stir fry over fluffy white rice brown rice or even quinoa. For a lower carb meal pair it with cauliflower rice. I also love to pile the filling into crisp lettuce cups for a fresh play on a classic. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped scallions for extra crunch.
The Teriyaki Stir Fry Story
Teriyaki style cooking comes from Japan where grilled meats or fish are glazed with a sweet soy based sauce. This American inspired weeknight version nods to those flavors using ground meat for a quick modern twist. The fresh veggies and homemade sauce bring the best of both worlds right to your kitchen.
Common Queries
- → What can I serve with this stir fry?
Popular options include steamed rice, cauliflower rice, noodles, or even lettuce wraps for a lighter meal.
- → Can I use other meats instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken, pork, or beef work well. Drain excess fat for best texture, especially with beef.
- → How do I add more vegetables?
Mix in snow peas, bell peppers, baby corn, or your favorites along with the broccoli and carrots.
- → How can I make it spicier?
Add cayenne, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of sriracha to increase heat according to your taste.
- → How do I adjust the sauce thickness?
If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit more water until your preferred consistency is reached.