Introduction:

There’s something magical about the combination of rich turkey and bold, aromatic flavors like star anise and soy sauce. This gluten-free roasted turkey drumsticks with star anise and soy sauce recipe offers a unique twist on a classic dish, blending savory and slightly sweet flavors with the depth of star anise, a spice that adds a subtle licorice-like aroma. It’s a perfect balance of umami and sweetness, creating an unforgettable dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or even a special occasion.

Turkey drumsticks are not only a great source of lean protein, but when paired with gluten-free soy sauce and the warm, fragrant spices of star anise and ginger, they turn into a melt-in-your-mouth meal. This dish is easy to prepare and sure to impress guests or family members with its blend of Asian-inspired flavors. Plus, since it’s completely gluten-free, it’s a safe option for those with dietary restrictions without compromising on taste.

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

  • 4 turkey drumsticks (approx. 2 pounds)
  • ¼ cup gluten-free soy sauce (or tamari)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 whole star anise
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

For Roasting:

  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 cups chicken broth (gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening sauce)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Marinating the Drumsticks:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together gluten-free soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, star anise, cinnamon stick, and black pepper.
  2. Place the turkey drumsticks in a large zip-lock bag or airtight container. Pour the marinade over the drumsticks, making sure they’re evenly coated. Seal the bag and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor).

2. Preparing the Turkey for Roasting:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large roasting pan, scatter the sliced onions across the bottom to form a bed for the drumsticks. This will add flavor and keep the drumsticks from sticking.

3. Roasting the Drumsticks:

  1. Remove the drumsticks from the marinade (reserve the marinade for later). Place them on top of the onions in the roasting pan.
  2. Pour the chicken broth into the pan, making sure it surrounds the drumsticks but doesn’t cover them.
  3. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, basting occasionally with the pan juices, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For a deeper caramelized flavor, you can baste the drumsticks with the reserved marinade during the last 20 minutes of cooking.

4. Making the Sauce (Optional):

  1. If you’d like to thicken the sauce, transfer the pan juices and remaining marinade to a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little water to form a slurry, then slowly whisk it into the sauce. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens to your desired consistency.

5. Rest and Serve:

  1. Remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute for a tender bite.
  2. Serve the drumsticks with the pan sauce drizzled on top, along with the roasted onions and a side of steamed vegetables or jasmine rice.

Tips for Success:

  • Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the turkey drumsticks overnight to allow the star anise and soy sauce to deeply penetrate the meat.
  • Crispy Skin: If you want extra crispy skin, broil the drumsticks for the last 5 minutes of roasting, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
  • Balanced Flavor: Taste the sauce before serving. If it’s too salty, add a bit of honey or more broth to balance it out.

Recipe Variations:

  • Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or Sriracha sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
  • Alternative Protein: This marinade also works well with chicken thighs or wings for a smaller portioned dish.

Serving Suggestions:

These roasted turkey drumsticks are perfect with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa. For an extra touch of freshness, serve alongside a cucumber salad or roasted bok choy. You could also garnish with fresh cilantro or toasted sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions:

  • Storage: Store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave the drumsticks, but this may soften the crispy skin.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 32g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 850mg

Cost Estimation:

  • Approximate cost per serving: $3.75
  • Budget Tips: Buy turkey drumsticks in bulk to save on cost, and substitute tamari for soy sauce if you’re looking for an affordable gluten-free alternative.

Looking for more gluten-free dinner ideas? Check out our gluten-free recipes for more inspiration.

Have you tried this gluten-free roasted turkey drumsticks with star anise and soy sauce recipe? Share your results in the comments below, and let us know if you’ve added your own twist! Don’t forget to pin this recipe on Pinterest and tag us on Instagram with your creations.