Pavo Alcaparrado Recipe

Chef Nora Benson

12 Aug, 2023

Pavo Alcaparrado is a popular dish in Latin American countries, particularly during the holiday season. It's a flavorful turkey dish that's cooked with capers, olives, and a variety of other ingredients.

Pavo Alcaparrado

Publisher: Lofty Recipes
Cuisine: South American
Category: Main Dish
Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 2 hours
Servings: 10
Calories: 150 calories

About this recipe

Pavo alcaparrado is a delightful dish that originates from Spain and is typically served during special occasions like Christmas and Thanksgiving.

As the name suggests, it is made from a whole turkey that is cooked with capers, white wine, garlic, and other flavorful ingredients.

The turkey is first seasoned with salt and pepper, and then coated with a mixture of olive oil, white wine, chicken stock, tomato sauce, paprika, oregano, cumin, and capers.

This flavorful mixture seeps into the turkey meat as it roasts, infusing it with a delicious combination of savory and tangy flavors.

The roasting process is done in two stages, first by covering the turkey with aluminum foil to keep it moist, and then removing the foil to allow it to brown and crisp up. This two-stage roasting process ensures that the turkey is cooked to perfection, with a juicy and tender interior and a crispy, flavorful exterior.

Once the turkey is cooked, it is allowed to rest for a few minutes before being carved and served. The juices from the roasting pan can be spooned over the turkey slices, adding even more flavor to the dish.

Be that as it may, pavo alcaparrado is a wonderful dish that is sure to impress your guests with its delicious flavors and beautiful presentation. Whether you're looking for a special dish to serve during the holidays or just want to try something new and exciting, pavo alcaparrado is definitely worth giving a try!

Origin of Pavo Alcaparrado recipe

Pavo alcaparrado has its origins in Spain, where it is known as "pavo con alcaparras". The dish is believed to have originated in Andalusia, a region in southern Spain known for its rich culinary traditions.

Turkey was introduced to Spain by the Moors during the medieval period, and it became a popular ingredient in Spanish cuisine. The use of capers in the dish also reflects the influence of Moorish cuisine, which often incorporated ingredients like capers, olives, and spices in their dishes.

Today, pavo alcaparrado remains a popular dish in Spain and is often served during special occasions like Christmas and Easter. It has also gained popularity in other parts of the world, particularly in Latin America, where it is known as "pavo en salsa de alcaparras".

Why make this recipe?

Great question! There are many reasons why you might want to make pavo alcaparrado:

Delicious flavor: The combination of turkey, capers, white wine, and other flavorful ingredients creates a delicious and unique taste that is sure to impress your taste buds.
Perfect for special occasions: Pavo alcaparrado is a great dish to serve during special occasions like Christmas and Thanksgiving. It's a hearty and satisfying meal that is sure to impress your guests.
Easy to make: While there are many steps involved in making pavo alcaparrado, the recipe is relatively straightforward and easy to follow. With a little bit of patience and some basic cooking skills, you can create a dish that is sure to wow your guests.
Feeds a crowd: Pavo alcaparrado is made with a whole turkey, which means it can feed a large group of people. If you're hosting a holiday gathering or a dinner party, this dish is a great way to feed everyone without having to make multiple dishes.
Leftovers: Leftover turkey can be used in many different dishes, from soups and stews to sandwiches and salads. Pavo alcaparrado is a great way to use up any leftover turkey you might have after a big holiday meal.

What does Pavo Alcaparrado taste like?

Pavo alcaparrado has a delicious and unique flavor that is both savory and tangy. The turkey meat is seasoned with salt and pepper and then coated with a mixture of olive oil, white wine, chicken stock, tomato sauce, paprika, oregano, cumin, and capers, which infuses it with a complex and flavorful taste.

The capers themselves are an essential ingredient in the dish, and they add a tangy and slightly briny flavor that complements the savory flavors of the turkey.

The result is a dish that is both hearty and full of flavor, with a pleasant balance of salty, tangy, and savory notes.

What would you need for this recipe?

Here are the ingredients you will need to make pavo alcaparrado, along with a brief description of each:

Whole turkey: You will need a whole turkey for this recipe, preferably fresh and free-range.
Salt and pepper: These basic seasonings will be used to season the turkey.
Olive oil: This will be used to coat the turkey before roasting.
White wine: This will be used to create the base of the sauce.
Chicken stock: This will be used to add flavor to the sauce and keep the turkey moist.
Tomato sauce: This will be used to thicken the sauce and add some sweetness to balance out the tangy flavor of the capers.
Paprika: This will add a smoky and slightly spicy flavor to the dish.
Oregano: This herb will add a fresh and aromatic flavor to the dish.
Cumin: This spice will add a warm and earthy flavor to the dish.
Capers: These small, tangy buds are an essential ingredient in pavo alcaparrado and add a unique flavor to the dish.
Green olives: These will be used to add some additional flavor and texture to the dish.
Garlic: This will be used to add some depth of flavor to the sauce.
Onion: This will be used to add some sweetness and aroma to the sauce.
All-purpose flour: This will be used to thicken the sauce and create a smooth texture.

Also, by having the following equipment available, you'll be well-equipped to make this delicious and festive recipe.

Roasting pan: A large roasting pan with a rack is ideal for cooking the turkey. This will allow the heat to circulate around the turkey and help it cook evenly.
Meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring that the turkey is cooked through and safe to eat. It's important to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, being careful not to touch the bone.
Aluminum foil: You will need aluminum foil to cover the turkey for the first part of the cooking time. This will help to keep the turkey moist and prevent it from drying out.
Large mixing bowl: You will need a large mixing bowl to combine the olive oil, salt, and pepper, and to coat the turkey before roasting.
Large saucepan: You will need a large saucepan to make the sauce for the pavo alcaparrado. This will allow you to simmer the sauce and let it thicken to the desired consistency.
Whisk: A whisk is useful for whisking the flour into the sauce and creating a smooth texture.
Serving platter: You will need a large serving platter to present the turkey and sauce. Make sure it is large enough to hold the whole turkey and any additional garnishes you may want to add.

How to make Pavo Alcaparrado

Learn how to make a delicious and flavorful pavo alcaparrado, a classic Latin American turkey dish, with this step-by-step recipe guide. Perfect for holidays and special occasions. Come on, let's go!

Ingredients

1 whole turkey (10-12 pounds)
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup of olive oil
1/2 cup of white wine
1/2 cup of chicken stock
1/2 cup of tomato sauce
1 tablespoon of paprika
1 teaspoon of dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon of cumin
1/2 cup of capers
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions to follow

Preheat your oven to 375°F.
Rinse the turkey well and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the turkey with salt and pepper both inside and outside.
In a bowl, mix the minced garlic with the olive oil, white wine, chicken stock, tomato sauce, paprika, oregano, cumin, and capers.
Pour the mixture over the turkey and make sure it's well coated on all sides.
Place the turkey on a roasting pan and cover it with aluminum foil. Roast it for 2 hours.
Remove the foil and continue roasting the turkey for another 1 hour, basting it every 20 minutes with the juices from the pan.
Check the turkey's internal temperature with a meat thermometer to make sure it reaches at least 165°F.
Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Spoon some of the juices from the pan over the turkey slices before serving.

How do you serve Pavo Alcaparrado recipe?

Let it Rest: Once the turkey is cooked, it's important to let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the meat more tender and juicy.
Carve the Turkey: Use a sharp carving knife to slice the turkey into thin, even slices. Make sure to remove the skin before carving.
Arrange on a Platter: Arrange the sliced turkey on a platter, and pour the sauce over the top. If desired, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
Serve with Sides: Pavo Alcaparrado is often served with traditional Latin American side dishes like rice and beans, plantains, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or bread rolls.
Enjoy!: Pavo Alcaparrado is a delicious and hearty dish that's perfect for sharing with family and friends. Serve it up and enjoy!

Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 923 reviews.

Recipe Tags: Pavo Alcaparrado, Pavo Alcaparrado Recipe, Recipe, Turkey, Capers

What to serve with Pavo Alcaparrado

Pavo Alcaparrado is a flavorful and filling dish that is often served during special occasions in Latin American countries. It pairs well with a variety of side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here I have some suggestions for what you can serve with Pavo Alcaparrado:

Rice: Rice is a staple side dish that pairs well with Pavo Alcaparrado. You can serve it plain or add some flavor with sautéed onions, garlic, and herbs.
Beans: Another traditional side dish is beans, such as black beans or red beans. They can be served refried, stewed, or seasoned with spices and herbs.
Plantains: Fried or baked plantains add a sweet and savory element to the dish. They can be served as slices or mashed.
Roasted Vegetables: Pavo Alcaparrado can also be served with a side of roasted vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and onions.
Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and avocado provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of Pavo Alcaparrado.
Bread: Warm bread rolls or cornbread can be served on the side to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Wine: A full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec can be a great pairing for Pavo Alcaparrado.

My recommendations and tips for you

Choose a high-quality turkey: The quality of the turkey you use can have a big impact on the final dish. Look for a turkey that is fresh and free-range, if possible, and avoid pre-brined turkeys, which can be overly salty.
Use a meat thermometer: Cooking a whole turkey can be tricky, and it's important to make sure it's cooked through to avoid any food safety issues. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey and ensure it has reached at least 165°F (74°C).
Season well: Don't be afraid to be generous with the salt and pepper when seasoning the turkey. This will help to enhance the flavor of the meat and the overall dish.
Don't skip the two-stage roasting process: The two-stage roasting process (covering the turkey with foil for the first part of the cooking time and then removing it to allow the turkey to brown) is important to ensure that the turkey cooks evenly and stays moist while still developing a crispy exterior.
Let the turkey rest before carving: After the turkey is cooked, let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.
Serve with a variety of sides: Pavo alcaparrado is a great main dish to serve with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad. This will help to balance out the richness of the dish and add some variety to the meal.

How to store Pavo Alcaparrado

If you have any leftover pavo alcaparrado, it's important to store it properly to keep it fresh and safe to eat. Here are some suggestions for storing this dish:

Fridge: You can store leftover pavo alcaparrado in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before putting it in the fridge.
Freezer: You can also freeze leftover pavo alcaparrado for up to 2-3 months. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and make sure to label it with the date. When you're ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

When reheating pavo alcaparrado, make sure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent any foodborne illness. You can reheat it in the oven, on the stove, or in the microwave, adding some chicken stock or water to prevent it from drying out. It's important to note that the texture and flavor may be slightly different after reheating, but it should still be delicious.

Potential ingredients substitutes

Turkey substitute: If you can't find a whole turkey or prefer not to use one, you can use turkey breasts or thighs instead. Keep in mind that the cooking time and temperature may need to be adjusted for different cuts of meat.
White wine substitute: If you don't have white wine, you can use chicken or vegetable broth instead. This will still add some flavor to the sauce and keep the turkey moist.
Tomato sauce substitute: If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use tomato paste or canned tomatoes. Just make sure to puree the canned tomatoes before adding them to the saucepan.
Paprika substitute: If you don't have paprika, you can use smoked paprika or chili powder instead. This will still add a smoky and slightly spicy flavor to the dish.
Oregano substitute: If you don't have oregano, you can use thyme or rosemary instead. These herbs will add a fresh and aromatic flavor to the dish.
Cumin substitute: If you don't have cumin, you can use coriander or chili powder instead. This will still add a warm and earthy flavor to the dish.
Capers substitute: If you don't have capers, you can use green or black olives instead. These will still add a tangy and salty flavor to the dish.
Green olives substitute: If you don't have green olives, you can use black olives or kalamata olives instead. These will still add some additional flavor and texture to the dish.

What else to know?

After reading about the pavo alcaparrado recipe, it's important to keep in mind that cooking is an art, and everyone's tastes and preferences may vary. Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients or adjust the recipe to suit your own taste. Remember to always practice good food safety and hygiene habits when cooking, such as washing your hands and utensils thoroughly, and cooking meat to a safe temperature. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process of cooking and sharing food with your loved ones!

Remarks

In conclusion, pavo alcaparrado is a delicious and flavorful turkey recipe that is perfect for special occasions and holidays. With its savory and tangy sauce, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave everyone feeling satisfied.

By following the tips and recommendations outlined in this article, you'll be well on your way to making a perfect pavo alcaparrado that will be the highlight of any feast. So go ahead and give it a try, and savor the rich flavors and aromas of this classic Latin American dish!