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Introduction

Maple Glazed Roasted Turkey Legs

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Maple Glazed Roasted Turkey Legs with this simple and satisfying recipe. Perfect for festive gatherings or family dinners, these turkey legs are marinated in a luscious blend of pure maple syrup, savory soy sauce, and tangy Dijon mustard, resulting in a delightful balance of sweet and savory. Easy to prepare, they promise juicy, tender meat and a gorgeous caramelized glaze. Serve them alongside roasted vegetables or creamy polenta for an unforgettable meal that brings everyone together. Enjoy the joy of home-cooked goodness!
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Ingredients
  

4 turkey legs (approximately 2 pounds)

1/2 cup pure maple syrup

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Salt to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your turkey legs will roast evenly and develop a beautiful glaze.

    Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together vigorously until they are thoroughly blended into a smooth marinade.

      Marinate the Turkey Legs: Place the turkey legs into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the freshly made marinade over the turkey legs, ensuring that they are completely and evenly coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish, and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 2 hours. For optimal flavor, marinate overnight.

        Prepare for Roasting: When ready to roast, take the turkey legs out of the marinade and reserve the marinade for glazing later. Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Drizzle the olive oil over the legs and rub it in to ensure an even coat. This will help to create a crispy skin during roasting.

          Roast the Turkey Legs: Arrange the turkey legs in a roasting pan or on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place them in the preheated oven and roast for 45 minutes. This initial roasting time will begin to lock in flavors and cook the meat properly.

            Glaze the Turkey Legs: After 45 minutes of roasting, take the turkey legs out of the oven and brush them generously with the reserved marinade. Return them to the oven for an additional 30 minutes, basting them every 10 minutes with the glaze to build a rich, tasty coating.

              Check for Doneness: To ensure the turkey legs are cooked perfectly, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You want the skin to be caramelized and glowing with color.

                Rest and Serve: Once the turkey legs have reached the desired temperature, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat. Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

                  Enjoy your sweet and savory Maple Glazed Roasted Turkey Legs! They pair beautifully with your favorite side dishes for a well-rounded meal.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 1 hour 25 minutes | 4 servings