Smoked Turkey Legs

Smoked Turkey Legs

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, food. This year, skip the traditional roasted turkey and try something different – smoked turkey legs. Turkey legs are a fun and easy way to change up your Thanksgiving dinner, and they’re perfect for snacking on throughout the day. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make at home. Keep reading for recipe ideas and tips on how to smoke your turkey legs.

Smoked turkey legs are a popular food item at theme parks and carnivals. Many people are surprised to learn that they can be made at home with a few simple ingredients. In this post, we will give you a recipe for smoked turkey legs so that you can enjoy them at home.

What Are Turkey Legs?

Before knowing about smoked turkey legs, it is important to know what they are. Turkey legs, also known as drumsticks, are the lower part of the turkey that extends from the hip joint to the knee. The upper part of the turkey leg is the thigh. Both the drumstick and thigh contain dark meat, which is a good source of protein and iron.

Smoked turkey legs are made by smoking raw turkey legs over low heat for several hours. This cooking method results in tender, juicy, and flavorful meat. Smoked turkey legs are often served at fairs and festivals. They can also be purchased online or at specialty stores.

Turkey legs are a good source of protein and nutrients, making them a healthy choice for those who are looking for an alternative to red meat. Smoked turkey legs are a convenient and easy-to-eat food that can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a meal. However, they also contain a significant amount of fat and cholesterol, so it is important to eat them in moderation. If you are concerned about your cholesterol levels, you should talk to your doctor before consuming turkey legs on a regular basis.

Why Smoked Turkey Legs Are Appealing To You?

Now that you know what smoked turkey legs are, it’s time to learn why they are so delicious. Here are a few reasons:

1. The flavor is unique and unparalleled. When you smoke turkey legs, the meat absorbs all of the smoky goodness from the wood chips or pellets. This gives it a flavor that is out-of-this-world delicious.
2. They are fall-off-the-bone tender. One of the best things about smoked turkey legs is that they are incredibly tender. The long smoking process breaks down all of the tough fibers in the meat, making it super tender and easy to eat.
3. They make a great presentation. When you smoke turkey legs, they always look impressive. Whether you’re serving them at a party or family gathering, your guests will be impressed by your culinary skills.
4. They’re easy to make. Smoking turkey legs is actually very easy, even if you’ve never smoked meat before. Just follow a few simple steps and you’ll be enjoying delicious smoked turkey legs in no time.
5. They’re a fun food to eat. Eating smoked turkey legs is an experience in itself. They’re messy, but that’s all part of the fun. Grab a leg with your hands and start tearing off the juicy meat – it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Smoked turkey legs are a delicious and unique way to enjoy turkey. If you haven’t tried them before, now is the perfect time. You’re sure to fall in love with their flavor, tenderness, and easy-to-make convenience.

Now that you know all about smoked turkey legs, it’s time to get cooking. Check out our recipe section for some delicious ideas. And don’t forget to share your own smoked turkey leg recipes with us. We’d love to hear from you!

Ingredients For Smoked Turkey Legs

Let’s face it, the best part about smoked turkey legs is the meat. But in order to get that perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavor-packed meat, you need to start with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Turkey legs

Obviously, you’ll need some turkey legs. You can usually find them at your local grocery store or butcher shop. If you can’t find them fresh, you can also purchase them frozen. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

2. Wood chips or pellets

You’ll need some wood chips or pellets for smoking. There are many different types of wood that can be used for smoking, so feel free to experiment and find the one that you like best. We recommend using hickory, apple, or cherry wood.

3. Smoking device

You’ll also need a smoking device. This can be a smoker, charcoal grill, or even a gas grill that has been outfitted with a smoking box.

4. Charcoal

If you’re using a charcoal grill or smoker, you’ll need some charcoal to get it started.

5. Water pan

A water pan is optional but recommended. It helps to keep the turkey legs moist as they smoke and also adds flavor to the meat.

6. Seasonings

Last but not least, you’ll need some seasonings. We recommend using a simple rub of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. But feel free to get creative and experiment with other seasonings that you like.

Now that you have all of your ingredients, it’s time to get started.

How To Make Smoked Turkey Legs?

After you’ve gathered all of your ingredients, it’s time to start smoking those turkey legs. Here’s how:

Step 1: Make the brine.

Before you start smoking the turkey legs, you’ll need to brine them. This helps to keep the meat moist and adds flavor. To make the brine, simply combine water, salt, sugar, and spices in a large container. Stir until the salt and sugar have dissolved. Then add the turkey legs and let them soak for 4-8 hours.

Step 2: Prepare the smoker.

While the turkey legs are brining, you can prepare your smoker. If you’re using a charcoal grill or smoker, light the charcoal and let it burn until it’s covered with gray ash. Then place your wood chips or pellets in the smoker box or foil packet.

If you’re using a gas grill, turn all of the burners on to high and let the grill heat up for 15 minutes. Then turn off all of the burners except for the one that’s furthest away from where the turkey legs will be placed. This will help to prevent the meat from drying out.

Step 3. Add the wood chips or pellets. Once the grill or smoker is heated up, it’s time to add the wood chips or pellets. For best results, we recommend soaking the wood in water for 30 minutes before adding it to the grill or smoker. This will help to keep them from burning too quickly.

Step 4. Place the turkey legs on the grill or smoker. Now it’s time to place the turkey legs on the grill or smoker.

If you’re using a charcoal grill, place the turkey legs on the side of the grill that’s not directly over the charcoal.

If you’re using a gas grill, place the turkey legs on the opposite side of the grill from where the burner is turned on.

Step 5: Add the water pan (optional). If you’re using a water pan, now is the time to add it to the grill or smoker.

Step 6: Close the lid and let them smoke. Once everything is in place, close the lid of the grill or smoker and let them cook. The cooking time will vary depending on how hot your grill or smoker is and how big the turkey legs are. We recommend smoking them for 2-3 hours or until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 7: Remove the turkey legs from the grill or smoker. Once they’re cooked through, remove the turkey legs from the grill or smoker and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy!

These smoked turkey legs are sure to be a hit at your next cookout or family gathering. So fire up the grill and give them a try!

Tips For Making Smoked Turkey Legs Successfully

Here are a few tips to help you make the best smoked turkey legs possible:

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the turkey legs are cooked through. We recommend smoking them until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• If you’re using a charcoal grill or smoker, we recommend adding more charcoal and wood chips or pellets every hour or so to keep the fire going.
• Be sure to soak the wood chips or pellets in water for 30 minutes before adding them to the grill or smoker. This will help to prevent them from burning too quickly.
• For extra flavor, try using a rub or marinade on the turkey legs before smoking them.
• Let the turkey legs rest for 5-10 minutes after smoking them before serving. This will help to keep them moist and juicy.

Smoked turkey legs are a great way to add flavor to your next cookout or family gathering. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to make them successfully every time!

How To Choose Your Turkey Legs?

Before making smoked turkey legs, it’s important to choose the right ones. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing your turkey legs:

Size

Turkey legs come in a variety of sizes, so it’s important to choose the right size for your needs. If you’re smoking turkey legs for a large group, you’ll need to purchase larger legs. However, if you’re smoking turkey legs for a smaller group or for individual servings, you can get away with purchasing smaller legs.

Quality

When it comes to quality, you’ll want to choose turkey legs that are fresh and free of any blemishes or bruises. Also, look for legs that have a healthy coat of feathers.

Thickness

Another important factor to consider when choosing turkey legs is thickness. You’ll want to choose legs that are of uniform thickness so that they cook evenly.

Type of Turkey

There are a variety of turkey breeds available, so you’ll want to choose the type of turkey that best suits your needs. If you’re looking for a leaner leg, you may want to choose a wild turkey. However, if you’re looking for a juicier leg, you may want to choose a domestic turkey.

Price

Turkey legs vary in price depending on the size and quality. You can find reasonably priced turkey legs at most grocery stores or online retailers. However, if you’re looking for premium quality legs, you may have to pay a bit more.

Now that you know how to choose the right turkey legs, it’s time to get started on your smoked turkey legs recipe!

Some Smoked Turkey Legs Recipes

Here are a few recipes to get you started:

Smoked Turkey Legs with a Maple-Bourbon Glaze

This recipe is for making smoked turkey legs with a maple-bourbon glaze. It is an easy recipe that can be done in a few hours and the results are always impressive.

Ingredients:

• 4 turkey legs
• 1 cup bourbon
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Kosher salt, to taste

Instructions:

Step 1. Combine the bourbon, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a large resealable bag. Add the turkey legs and massage the bag until the ingredients are well combined.

Step2. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.

After the turkey legs have marinated, remove them from the bag and pat dry with paper towels. Season the legs with kosher salt and olive oil.

Step 3. Preheat your smoker to 225°F. Place the turkey legs on the smoker grates and smoke for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 165°F.

While the turkey legs are smoking, prepare the glaze. Combine the bourbon, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the mixture comes to a boil. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4. When the turkey legs are cooked through, brush them with the glaze. Return to the smoker and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is nice and sticky.

Remove from the smoker and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Step 5. Serve immediately with your favorite sides. Enjoy!

Smoked Turkey Legs with BBQ Sauce

If you are looking for a delicious and unique way to cook turkey legs, then you should try smoking them with BBQ sauce. This combination will give the turkey legs a smoky flavor that is absolutely delicious. Here is a step by step guide on how to make smoked turkey legs with BBQ sauce.

Ingredients:

• 4 turkey legs
• 1 bottle of BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper

Instructions:

Step 1. Marinate the turkey legs in your favorite BBQ sauce.

Before you begin smoking the turkey legs, you will need to marinate them in BBQ sauce. This will help to infuse the flavor of the BBQ sauce into the meat. Simply place the turkey legs into a large resealable bag and pour in your favorite BBQ sauce. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

Step 2. Prepare the smoker.

You will need to preheat your smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Once it is heated, add your favorite wood chips to the smoker box.

Step 3: Smoke the turkey legs.

Place the marinated turkey legs onto the racks of the smoker and close the lid. Smoke the turkey legs for 3-4 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 4: Remove the turkey legs from the smoker and brush with BBQ sauce.

Once the turkey legs are cooked through, remove them from the smoker and brush them generously with BBQ sauce. Serve immediately. Enjoy!

Smoked Turkey Legs with a Spicy Dry Rub

If you are looking for a delicious and easy to make smoked turkey legs recipe, this is the one for you. These smoked turkey legs are rubbed with a spicy dry rub, and then slow smoked to perfection. The result is a juicy and flavorful smoked turkey leg that will have your friends and family begging for more.

Ingredients:

• 4 turkey legs
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil, divided

Instructions:

Step 1. Combine the paprika, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and black pepper in a small bowl. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey legs.

The first step is to make the dry rub. This is a simple mixture of spices that will give the turkey legs a nice flavor.

Step 2. Heat your smoker to 225 degrees F.

Before making smoked turkey legs, you need to heat your smoker. I like to use a offset smoker, but you can use any type of smoker that you have.

Step 3. Place the turkey legs on the smoker, and smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature of the turkey legs reaches 165 degrees F.

Once the smoker is up to temperature, place the turkey legs on the smoker. I like to put them on a wire rack so that they cook evenly. Smoke the turkey legs for 2-3 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

Step 4: Remove the smoked turkey legs from the smoker, and brush with olive oil.

Once the smoked turkey legs are cooked through, remove them from the smoker and brush them with olive oil. This will help to keep them moist.

Step 5: Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Smoked turkey legs are best served fresh, but they will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to reheat them, just put them back on the smoker for a few minutes to heat through.

Enjoy!

Smoked Turkey Legs with a Honey-Mustard Glaze

Smoked turkey legs are a delicious and easy way to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner. This recipe uses a honey-mustard glaze to add flavor and keep the meat moist. The key to success is in the smoking process, so be sure to follow the instructions carefully. You’ll also want to use a good quality turkey leg for best results.

Ingredients:

• 2 turkey legs
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/8 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1. Preheat your smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit.

The first step is to preheat your smoker. You’ll want to use a temperature of 225 degrees Fahrenheit for this recipe.

Step 2. Make the honey-mustard glaze.

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Set the glaze aside.

Step 3. Season the turkey legs.

Season the turkey legs with salt and pepper to taste. Then, brush on the honey-mustard glaze.

Step 4. Smoke the turkey leg.

Place the turkey legs in the smoker and smoke for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 5: Remove from smoker and enjoy!

Once the smoked turkey legs have reached the proper temperature, remove them from the smoker and allow them to rest for 10 minutes. Then, carve and enjoy!

Smoked Turkey Legs with a Sweet and Spicy Rub

This recipe is for making smoked turkey legs with a sweet and spicy rub.

Ingredients:

• 1 package of turkey legs (5-6 legs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• Sea salt to taste

Instructions:

Step 1. Marinate the turkey legs: In a large resealable bag, mix together the olive oil, paprika, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Add the turkey legs to the bag and massage the marinade into the meat. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

Step 2. Preheat the smoker: Set your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Add your favorite wood chips to the smoker box. I used hickory wood chips.

Step 3. Smoke the turkey legs: Place the marinated turkey legs on the smoking grate. Smoke for about 4 hours, or until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 4. Make the glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix together the brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, and salt. Cook until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is bubbling.

Step 5. Brush the glaze on the smoked turkey legs: Remove the smoked turkey legs from the smoker and brush them with the glaze.

Step 6. Serve immediately. Enjoy!

Now that you know how to make smoked turkey legs, it’s time to enjoy them! These juicy and flavorful turkey legs are perfect for a holiday meal or any time you’re in the mood for something special. Serve them with your favorite sides and enjoy!

FAQs About Smoked Turkey Legs

How Much Wood Should You Use To Make Smoked Turkey Legs?

The amount of wood you’ll need will depend on the size of your smoker and the length of time you plan to smoke the turkey legs. In general, you’ll want to use about 1 pound of wood chips for every hour of smoking time.

Can You Smoke Frozen Turkey Legs?

Yes, you can smoke frozen turkey legs. However, it’s best to thaw them first so that they cook evenly.

How Long Should You Smoke Turkey Legs?

Turkey legs should be smoked until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This will usually take 3-4 hours.

What Wood Chips Are Best For Smoking Turkey Legs?

There are many different types of wood chips that can be used for making smoked turkey legs. Some common options include hickory, mesquite, and apple. Experiment to see which type of wood you like best.

Can You Smoke Turkey Legs Without A Smoker?

Yes, you can smoke turkey legs without a smoker by using a grill. Simply preheat the grill to medium-low heat and place the turkey legs on the grates. Cover the grill and cook for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Baste the turkey legs with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion On Smoked Turkey Legs

If you’re looking for an easy and delicious way to feed a large crowd, smoked turkey legs are the perfect solution. These flavorful and moist legs are sure to be a hit with everyone at your next get-together. Follow our simple recipe below and you’ll be able to make these succulent smoked turkey legs in no time. So fire up the smoker and give this tasty dish a try!

As you can see, smoking turkey legs is a fairly easy process that results in delicious, succulent meat. If you’re looking for an interesting and tasty dish to serve at your next party or cookout, smoked turkey legs should definitely be on your list. Give them a try this weekend – we promise you won’t be disappointed!