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Teriyaki Ground Turkey Bowl

A quick and comforting bowl dinner featuring ground turkey, a savory teriyaki sauce, and rice, perfect for busy weeknights and picky eaters.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Japanese
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground turkey The main protein and star of the bowl.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Used to sauté the onion and turkey.
  • 1 small onion, diced Base aromatic that adds sweetness.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds depth to the sauce.
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce Provides the salty, savory backbone of the sauce.
  • 1/4 cup water Balances the intensity of the soy sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar Balances the salt with sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar Adds a mild tang to the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil For a nutty flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger Adds freshness to the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch Used to thicken the sauce.
  • 1/4 cup cold water Used to dissolve the cornstarch.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) For those who prefer a little heat.
  • 2 cups cooked rice The base for the bowl.
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions For garnish.
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
  2. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Stir occasionally and cook until the turkey is fully browned and no longer pink, about 6-7 minutes.
Sauce Preparation
  1. While the turkey is cooking, in a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
  2. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the cold water until fully dissolved to create a slurry.
Cooking
  1. Once the turkey is cooked, pour the soy sauce mixture over the turkey and stir to combine.
  2. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  3. Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet while stirring to thicken the sauce. Continue simmering for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
  4. If using, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and stir to combine, adjusting to your heat preference.
  5. Serve the teriyaki ground turkey over the cooked rice, dividing it into bowls.
  6. Garnish each bowl with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
  7. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

This dish is customizable; feel free to serve with extra toppings like steamed vegetables or a drizzle of sesame oil for a personal touch.