When removing the giblets and neck from a turkey, most people throw them away. Have you ever wondered what the heck to do with them?
The turkey neck and giblets were always used by my mom, who could never waste anything, to quickly prepare a pot of broth that could be used to moisten stuffing or make gravy. And, thats what I do. This broth is so much more flavorful than anything that comes out of a can or box. While the turkey is in the oven, you can simmer a pot of it, and it will be ready to use well before the turkey is cooked through.
Since I make this broth with turkey parts that would otherwise be thrown away, I always consider it to be almost free. Additionally, since celery, onions, and herbs frequently come in larger quantities than I need for my other mealtime recipes, I usually have leftovers.
Say goodbye to that unwanted “turkey neck” with these effective strategies!
What is a turkey neck?
A turkey neck, also known as laxity of the neck, is a common concern that affects people of all ages. It’s characterized by loose, sagging skin and fat deposits around the neck, creating a less defined jawline and a “droopy” appearance.
What causes a turkey neck?
Several factors can contribute to the development of a turkey neck including:
- Aging: As we age, our skin naturally loses elasticity, causing it to sag and wrinkle. This can be exacerbated by sun exposure and smoking.
- Weight gain: Extra weight can lead to fat accumulation around the neck, contributing to a turkey neck appearance.
- Genetics: Some people are simply more prone to developing a turkey neck due to their inherited bone structure and skin type.
- Lifestyle factors: Poor diet, lack of exercise, and exposure to environmental toxins can all contribute to skin aging and loss of elasticity.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as steroids, can cause weight gain and fat redistribution, including around the neck.
- Weak neck muscles: The platysma muscles in the neck can weaken over time, leading to sagging and loss of definition.
How to get rid of a turkey neck:
The good news is that there are many ways to address a turkey neck, ranging from lifestyle changes to surgical procedures. The best approach for you will depend on the severity of your concerns, your budget, and your desired results.
1. Lifestyle changes:
- Weight loss: If you’re overweight or obese, losing even a small amount of weight can make a significant difference in the appearance of your neck.
- Healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help improve skin health and elasticity.
- Exercise: Regular exercise, including neck exercises, can help strengthen muscles and improve the overall appearance of your neck.
- Sun protection: Protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays is essential for preventing premature aging and wrinkles.
2. Non-surgical treatments:
- Skin care routine: Using a good quality moisturizer and sunscreen can help keep your skin hydrated and protected.
- Laser skin resurfacing: This treatment uses heat to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin.
- Ultherapy: This non-invasive procedure uses ultrasound energy to lift and tighten the skin.
- Microneedling: This treatment uses tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen production and skin renewal.
- Radiofrequency microneedling: This combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to further stimulate collagen production and skin tightening.
- Deoxycholic acid injections (Kybella®): This injectable medication can help dissolve fat cells in the neck.
- Fat freezing and non-surgical body sculpting: These treatments use cold or other technologies to destroy fat cells, reducing the appearance of a double chin.
3. Surgical treatments:
- Facelifts and neck lifts: These surgical procedures involve removing excess skin and fat while tightening the underlying muscles and tissues.
- Liposuction: This procedure removes excess fat from the neck area.
- Other surgeries: In some cases, surgery to address underlying bone structure problems may be necessary.
Choosing the right treatment:
The best way to determine the best treatment for your turkey neck is to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. They will assess your individual concerns, goals, and medical history to recommend the most appropriate approach.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for turkey neck. The best approach for you will depend on your individual circumstances.
Additional tips:
- Be realistic about your expectations. No treatment can completely eliminate a turkey neck, but most can significantly improve its appearance.
- Do your research and choose a qualified practitioner.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
- Be patient. It may take some time to see the full results of your treatment.
With the right approach, you can achieve a more youthful and defined neck, boosting your confidence and self-esteem.
While the turkey cooks, make this for use in gravy, stuffing, or soup.
- neck & giblets from 1 turkey
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- 1-2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 sprig fresh sage
- 1 medium onion, quartered
- 1-2 celery stocks, cut in 2″ chunks
- 1 teaspoon peppercorns (optional)
- Four cups (32 ounces) of water or chicken broth (or both)
Directions Add all ingredients to a 1-1/2 to 2 quart saucepan. Bring to boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and simmer on low heat for at least 1 hour. Pour through a mesh metal strainer to remove solids. Broth may be combined with turkey pan drippings to make gravy. Or, use the broth to moisten stuffing. It also may be used in soup. Broth may be stored in the fridge for 3 days or frozen for several months.
When removing the giblets and neck from a turkey, most people throw them away. Have you ever wondered what the heck to do with them?
The turkey neck and giblets were always used by my mom, who could never waste anything, to quickly prepare a pot of broth that could be used to moisten stuffing or make gravy. And, thats what I do. This broth is so much more flavorful than anything that comes out of a can or box. While the turkey is in the oven, you can simmer a pot of it, and it will be ready to use well before the turkey is cooked through.
- See my post, Step-By-Step Guide To The Best Roast Turkey, for a comprehensive photo tutorial on roasting a turkey.
Since I make this broth with turkey parts that would otherwise be thrown away, I always consider it to be almost free. Additionally, since celery, onions, and herbs frequently come in larger quantities than I need for my other mealtime recipes, I usually have leftovers.
How to Boil Turkey Neck & Giblets: Cooking with Kimberly
FAQ
What is the neck of the turkey used for?
What do I do with the turkey neck and giblets?
Can I give my dog the turkey neck?
Do I have to remove turkey neck?
What can I do if I have a turkey neck?
Turkey neck exercises: Daily neck exercises can strengthen neck muscles, which may help improve your neck’s appearance. For ideas on moves you can try, ask a dermatologist. Botox® for turkey neck: As the platysma muscles weaken, vertical bands or cords can appear on your neck. “The muscles become tight and enlarged,” Dr. Newman explains.
How can I fix my neck pain?
Gentle streching, alternating ice pack with heat several times and massage can help in relieving neck pain. Mild analgesic spray, liniment or cream can also be used to relieve pain.
What can you do with turkey neck meat?
Turkey neck can be used as a shredded addition to beans, soups, and sauteed greens, or served on the bone, smothered in richly flavored sauce. But the culinary magic doesn’t end there: The simmering liquid used to cook the turkey neck meat becomes rich bone broth, brimming with nutrients.
How do you cook a turkey neck?
You’ll want to lightly season and brown the turkey necks by pan-searing them all around. This step not only enhances their taste but also contributes to the depth of the final dish. Once the necks are golden brown, immerse them in liquid for a slow, low braise, generously flavored with aromatics such as onions and bay leaves.