Savory Turkey Bolognese with Fennel
This Savory Turkey Bolognese is a delightful twist on the classic Italian recipe, utilizing ground turkey for a lighter yet satisfying sauce. The infusion of fennel adds a unique aromatic depth, perfectly complementing the richness of the plum tomatoes. Simmered to perfection, this sauce is ideal for serving over your favorite pasta, nested in lasagna, or even as a hearty filling for stuffed peppers. It makes about 1 quart, serving 4 people, and is easily customizable with ground beef if desired. Enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal that's packed with nutrients and perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners!
N/A
Servings
200
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
3 tablespoons (none)
yellow onion
1/4 cup (chopped)
fresh ground turkey
1 lb (none)
fennel seed
1 tablespoon (none)
milk
1/4 cup (none)
plum tomatoes
1 quart (crushed with liquid)
parsley
3 tablespoons (chopped)
dried oregano
2 teaspoons (crumbled)
chicken broth
1/2 cup (none)
salt
1/8 teaspoon (to taste)
pepper
1/8 teaspoon (to taste)
Instructions
1
In a large 4-quart saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
2
Add the chopped yellow onion to the oil and sauté for about 2 minutes, or until the onion begins to soften and become translucent.
3
Stir in the ground turkey, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 4 minutes, or until the turkey is browned and cooked through.
4
Sprinkle in the fennel seed and pour in the milk. Stir well and let it cook for an additional 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5
Add the crushed plum tomatoes along with their liquid, chopped parsley, crumbled oregano, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir until combined.
6
Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
7
Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, then reduce the heat to low to let it simmer.
8
Allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors deepen.
Nutrition Information
7.5g
Fat
10g
Carbs
17.5g
Protein
2g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Turkey Bolognese with Fennel?
This is a lighter version of the classic Italian bolognese sauce that uses ground turkey and fennel seeds for a unique aromatic flavor profile.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe makes approximately 1 quart of sauce and serves 4 people.
How long does the sauce need to simmer?
The sauce should simmer uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes until it thickens and the flavors deepen.
Can I substitute the ground turkey with another meat?
Yes, the recipe is easily customizable and you can use ground beef if you prefer a more traditional meat choice.
What ingredient provides the unique aromatic depth in this recipe?
The addition of 1 tablespoon of fennel seed provides the unique aromatic depth to this bolognese.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of olive oil.
What kind of tomatoes are used?
The recipe uses 1 quart of plum tomatoes, which should be crushed and included with their liquid.
Does this bolognese recipe contain dairy?
Yes, it includes 1/4 cup of milk to help meld the flavors.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
How much protein is in one serving?
Each serving provides 17.5g of protein.
Can this sauce be used for lasagna?
Yes, this sauce is ideal for serving over pasta, nested in lasagna, or as a filling for stuffed peppers.
What size saucepan is recommended?
A large 4-quart saucepan is recommended for preparing this recipe.
How much fennel seed should I add?
You should add 1 tablespoon of fennel seed.
Do I need to drain the tomatoes before adding them?
No, add the crushed plum tomatoes along with their liquid.
What type of onion is used in this dish?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of chopped yellow onion.
How much chicken broth is needed?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of chicken broth.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 7.5g of fat.
How much fiber is in this recipe?
There are 2g of fiber per serving.
Is this recipe considered a healthy option?
Yes, it is described as a nutrient-packed, lighter twist on a classic meal using ground turkey.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 ingredients in total.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
There are 10g of carbohydrates per serving.
How do I know when the turkey is cooked?
Cook the turkey for about 4 minutes or until it is browned and cooked through.
Should I cover the pot while the sauce simmers?
No, the sauce should simmer uncovered to allow it to thicken.
What spices are included besides fennel?
The recipe also includes chopped parsley, crumbled dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
How much salt and pepper is recommended?
The recipe suggests 1/8 teaspoon each of salt and pepper, adjusted to taste.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat until shimmering.
How long should I saute the onions?
Saute the chopped yellow onion for about 2 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent.
When do I add the milk?
Add the milk after browning the turkey and sprinkling in the fennel seeds.
What is the total volume of sauce produced?
The recipe produces approximately 1 quart of sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for family dinners?
Yes, it is described as a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.