At the table
Spoon through the turkey and rice to distribute the sauce. Ask whether the meat is shredded or sliced if you have a preference.
Contains turkey, chicken stock, lard and soy sauce. It is not vegetarian or vegan; soy sauce may contain wheat. Rice wine is used, so do not assume it is alcohol-free.
This version uses lard. Other versions use chicken or other poultry fat, sliced meat or different sides. White pepper is not chili; added chili sauce changes the heat.
GET TO KNOW THE DISH
What goes into it?
Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.
This version uses lard. Other versions use chicken or other poultry fat, sliced meat or different sides. White pepper is not chili; added chili sauce changes the heat.
Typical ingredients
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
Savory soy and shallot aroma with a little sweetness.
- Chili heat
- Texture
- Tender meat shreds over separate rice grains, moistened by sauce.
- How it’s made
- Turkey is gently cooked in chicken stock with scallion, ginger and star anise. Shallots and garlic are fried in lard, then simmered with cooking broth, soy sauce, rice wine, sugar, salt and white pepper for the sauce.
This version uses lard. Other versions use chicken or other poultry fat, sliced meat or different sides. White pepper is not chili; added chili sauce changes the heat.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Associated with Taiwan.
About this regional connection
Taiwan: Chiayi turkey rice, documented by National Immigration Agency and turkey farmers association.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有火雞肉飯吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
Turkey, rice and fragrant sauce
This account describes a tradition or story, rather than an established historical fact.
Chiayi is closely associated with turkey rice. The contrast of plain rice, tender meat and fragrant sauce makes a simple-looking bowl distinctive.