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These Sweet and Spicy Ground Turkey and Broccoli Bowls are the go to meal when time is short but you want something flavorful and healthy It comes together fast with lean ground turkey sweet spicy sauce and crisp broccoli over a bed of rice for a satisfying bowl meal
I first whipped this up after a frantic workday and was amazed at how quickly it disappeared Everyone at the table has since requested it more than once and it always makes a busy night feel doable
Ingredients
- Olive oil: helps brown the turkey and prevents sticking Choose extra virgin for best flavor
- Ground turkey: lean keeps it light and soaks up all the sauce Look for fresh turkey without fillers
- Sweet chili sauce: brings the perfect balance of sweetness and mild heat Go for a brand with real chili flakes if you can
- Honey: adds depth and gloss Local honey gives extra flavor
- Sriracha: for a gentle or bold kick Adjust depending on your spice mood Choose original for best color
- Soy sauce: brings savoriness and balances the sweetness Opt for low sodium to control saltiness
- Toasted sesame oil: gives a nutty aroma Use a dark toasted oil for richness
- Garlic powder: for gentle garlicky warmth Fresh quality matters so check your powder for freshness
- Fresh ginger: brightens the dish and makes the flavors pop Firm smooth ginger root is best
- Broccoli florets: give crunch and color Choose vibrant green ones without yellowing
- Brown rice or your favorite cooked rice: for the bowl Short grain or jasmine both work well
Step by Step Instructions
- Brown the Turkey:
- Place your largest skillet over medium high heat Pour in the olive oil and add the ground turkey Use a spatula to break it up into small pieces and let it cook without stirring for a minute so it gets a little golden Let it cook through eight to ten minutes until no longer pink
- Mix the Sauce:
- In a bowl or large measuring cup combine sweet chili sauce honey Sriracha soy sauce toasted sesame oil garlic powder and fresh ginger Whisk well until smooth and glossy Set aside
- Sauce the Turkey:
- Pour your prepared sauce over the cooked ground turkey Stir to coat evenly Let it all bubble for three to four minutes Stir frequently so nothing sticks The sauce will thicken and hug the turkey pieces Adjust salt if needed
- Steam the Broccoli:
- While the sauce simmers fill a large saucepan with one inch of water Bring to a boil Place broccoli in a steamer basket set over the pot Cover with a lid Steam for four to five minutes until just tender and still bright green
- Assemble the Bowls:
- Lay a scoop of hot cooked rice into each bowl Top with the saucy ground turkey Divide steamed broccoli on the side Drizzle extra chili sauce or Sriracha if you like Scatter sesame seeds and green onions for a crunchy finish
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I always add extra fresh ginger because it zings up the sweet chili sauce My family loves making their own bowls and adding as much or as little Sriracha as they dare Last Thanksgiving we ended up making these bowls with leftover turkey and everyone voted to keep it in our regular dinner rotation
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days Reheat in a microwave for a quick meal If keeping for meal prep pack the rice broccoli and turkey in separate sections so nothing gets soggy
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground chicken or even tempeh can replace the turkey for different flavor and texture For a soy free version use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce For extra veggies add sliced bell pepper or snap peas right in with the broccoli
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Serving Suggestions
These bowls are perfect as is but you can also serve with a side of pickled carrots or fresh cucumber salad Some lime wedges on the side add a fresh burst of flavor or try a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for crunch
Cultural Context
Sweet and spicy flavors are a classic combo in many Asian inspired dishes The sweet chili honey and Sriracha play off the richness of turkey and the freshness of broccoli creating a fusion style bowl that is both familiar and exciting
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use cooked white rice instead of brown rice?
Absolutely. You can use any type of cooked rice you prefer, such as jasmine or basmati, for your bowls.
- → How spicy are these bowls?
The heat level is adjustable. Add more or less Sriracha to suit your personal heat preference.
- → Can I substitute ground turkey with another protein?
Yes, ground chicken or even ground beef can be used as alternatives for a similar flavor and texture.
- → What garnishes work best?
Sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and extra drizzles of chili or Sriracha sauce offer extra flavor and crunch.
- → Is fresh broccoli required, or can I use frozen?
You can use either fresh or frozen broccoli; simply steam until just tender before building your bowls.