Peppered Turkey: Nigerian-Style Pepper Dish Recipe

February 6, 2025 Odiraa

Peppered Turkey: Nigerian-Style Pepper Dish Recipe

If you love bold, spicy flavors and crispy, juicy turkey, then Nigerian-style peppered turkey is your ultimate recipe!

This dish features perfectly seasoned and fried turkey, smothered in a rich, flavorful pepper sauce that gives every bite a delightful kick.

Whether for a party, family gathering, or a casual meal, peppered turkey is a dish that always impresses.

What is Peppered Turkey?

Pepper turkey is a popular Nigerian dish made with turkey marinated in a blend of spices, herbs, and hot peppers, then fried or grilled and coated in a spicy, savory sauce.

This dish is known for its bold flavors and vibrant colors and is perfect for special occasions and celebrations.

For those interested in variations, ground turkey stuffed peppers, turkey stuffed peppers, and stuffed peppers with ground turkey are alternative ways to enjoy turkey with a peppery kick.

If you prefer a milder option, stuffed red peppers with ground turkey or turkey stuffed bell peppers are great choices.

Ingredients for Nigerian Peppered Turkey

Boiled Turkey

12 turkey pieces (whole wings, thighs, or drumsticks cut into chunks)
½ medium onion, diced
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 tablespoon thyme
3 seasoning cubes
Salt to taste

Pepper Sauce

1 large onion
3 red bell peppers (Tatashe preferred)
2 hot peppers (Scotch bonnet, habanero, or jalapeño)

To Prepare the Sauce

1 teaspoon curry powder
1 cooking spoon vegetable oil
1 seasoning cube
Salt to taste

How to Season Turkey for Maximum Flavor

Proper seasoning is key to achieving a delicious and well-balanced peppered turkey. Here are some essential tips:

Use a dry rub for a crispier skin.
Coat the turkey thoroughly—top, bottom, sides, and under the skin.
Let the turkey sit with the seasoning for at least 30 minutes or, for deeper flavor, marinate overnight.
If you are stuffing the turkey, mix some seasoning into the stuffing for extra taste.

For a different approach, try learning how to make stuffed peppers with ground turkey, how to make ground turkey stuffed peppers, or how to make stuffed bell peppers with ground turkey for a unique twist.

Pro Tip: Season your turkey a day before cooking for the best flavor penetration, resulting in a more tender and juicy dish.

How to Cook Peppered Turkey

Step 1: Boil the turkey

Season turkey with the listed ingredients (except salt) and allow it to absorb flavors for 30 minutes.
Add just enough water and cook on low-medium heat for 25 to 30 minutes.
Once cooked, drain the excess liquid and set the turkey aside.

Step 2: Blend the Pepper Sauce

While the turkey is cooking, blend the pepper sauce ingredients until smooth.
For a chunkier texture, chop instead of blending.

3: Fry or Broil the turkey

Frying Method: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot and fry boiled turkey pieces until golden brown.
Broiling Method: Lightly coat turkey pieces in oil, place on a greased baking sheet, and broil on low heat for 5 minutes per side, turning until golden brown.

Caution: Use low heat when broiling to prevent burning.

Step 4: Prepare the Pepper Sauce

Heat oil in a large pan.
Add the blended pepper mix and stir-fry until fragrant (about 3 minutes).
Add seasoning cube, curry powder, and salt. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Coat the Turkey in Sauce

Add the browned turkey to the sauce and stir to combine.
Cover the pan and simmer on low-medium heat for 10-15 minutes.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Health Benefits of Pepper Turkey

Rich in Protein: Turkey is an excellent source of protein, promoting muscle growth and cell repair.
Packed with Antioxidants: Peppers contain vitamin C and beneficial compounds that boost immunity.
Low in Fat: If grilled or baked, peppered turkey is a healthy, low-fat option.

Pro Tips for the Best Peppered Turkey

If you prefer less spice, reduce the number of Scotch bonnet or habanero peppers.
Add extra vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for a unique twist.
If grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat before cooking.
For a baked version, preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for 30 minutes or until cooked through.

If you’re wondering, does turkey bacon taste good with hot peppers? The answer is yes!

The smoky, slightly salty flavor of turkey bacon pairs well with the heat from peppers, making it a great addition to spicy dishes.

Final Thoughts

Peppered turkey is a must-try dish that’s spicy, juicy, and incredibly flavorful. Whether fried, grilled, or baked, this Nigerian delicacy is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Try this recipe today and let every bite transport you to a world of deliciousness!

Looking for smoked turkey for sale or smoked turkey delivery? Many local and online stores offer high-quality pepper turkey deli meat and pepper turkey options that can be used in sandwiches, salads, or even this recipe.

Enjoy your peppered turkey with Jollof rice, fried rice, or a refreshing side salad for a complete meal.