Cook Perfectly Tender Smoked Turkey Wings in Instant Pot

As an expert in cooking and a fan of flavorful dishes, I have always been intrigued by the versatility of the Instant Pot. Today, I want to share with you my tried and tested method for cooking smoked turkey wings in this incredible kitchen appliance. With the Instant Pot’s ability to lock in moisture and infuse flavors, you’ll be amazed at how tender and succulent your turkey wings will turn out. So, let’s dive right in and discover the perfect cooking time for smoked turkey wings in the Instant Pot.

When it comes to cooking smoked turkey wings in the Instant Pot, timing is everything. After experimenting with various cook times, I have discovered the ideal duration to achieve that perfect balance of tenderness and juiciness. By following my recommended cooking time, you can ensure that your turkey wings are cooked to perfection, with the meat effortlessly falling off the bone. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering dish that will have them coming back for seconds.

Are you ready to elevate your cooking game and create a delectable feast with smoked turkey wings? Look no further than your trusty Instant Pot. By following my expert advice and sticking to the recommended cooking time, you’ll be able to savor the incredible flavors and enjoy the tender texture of these succulent turkey wings. So, let’s get started and discover how long it takes to cook smoked turkey wings to perfection in the Instant Pot.

Step 1: Preparing the Smoked Turkey Wings

To ensure the best results when cooking smoked turkey wings in the Instant Pot, it’s crucial to properly prepare the meat beforehand. Follow these steps to get your wings ready for a flavorful and tender cooking experience:

1. Thaw the turkey wings: Begin by thawing the smoked turkey wings if they’re frozen. I generally recommend thawing them in the refrigerator overnight to prevent any potential health risks.
2. Remove excess moisture: Once the wings are thawed, pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the flavors penetrate the meat and allows for a better browning effect during cooking.
3. Season to taste: Now it’s time to season the turkey wings. You can use your favorite dry rub or marinade to add a burst of flavors. Be generous with your seasoning, as the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking process will infuse the flavors throughout the meat.
4. Let the flavors marinate: After applying the seasoning, let the turkey wings sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. For even more intense flavor, you can marinate them in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
5. Trim excess fat: Although turkey wings are naturally a bit fatty, you might want to trim any excessive fat that could prevent the flavors from fully absorbing into the meat. However, be sure to leave some fat on the wings, as it adds moisture and tenderness to the final result.

By properly preparing the smoked turkey wings, you are setting the stage for a delicious Instant Pot cooking experience. The next step will cover the actual cooking process, so let’s dive right in!

Step 2: Setting up the Instant Pot

Once you have properly prepared your smoked turkey wings, it’s time to move on to setting up the Instant Pot. This versatile kitchen gadget is known for its ability to cook food quickly and lock in flavors. Here’s how to get your Instant Pot ready for cooking those delicious smoked turkey wings:

1. Check the sealing ring: Before you start, make sure that the sealing ring on the lid of your Instant Pot is in good condition and properly seated. This ring helps create a tight seal, preventing steam from escaping during the cooking process.
2. Add liquid: To ensure that your smoked turkey wings cook evenly and don’t dry out, you’ll need to add some liquid to the Instant Pot. This could be water, chicken broth, or even apple cider for some added flavor. The general rule of thumb is to use about 1 cup of liquid for every 4 pounds of meat.
3. Insert the trivet: The trivet is a metal rack that comes with your Instant Pot. It elevates the meat off the bottom of the pot and prevents it from sitting in the liquid. This helps the turkey wings cook more evenly and prevents them from becoming mushy.
4. Place the turkey wings: Gently place your prepared smoked turkey wings on top of the trivet in the Instant Pot. Make sure they are spread out in a single layer and not touching the sides of the pot.
5. Secure the lid: Once the turkey wings are in place, securely attach the lid to the Instant Pot. Ensure that the vent valve is set to the “Sealing” position to create pressure inside the pot.

With your Instant Pot set up and ready to go, you’re one step closer to enjoying tender and flavorful smoked turkey wings. Now, it’s time to move on to the next step: cooking the wings to perfection in the Instant Pot.

Step 3: Cooking the Smoked Turkey Wings

Now that we have successfully set up the Instant Pot for cooking our smoked turkey wings, it’s time to start the cooking process. With the Instant Pot’s efficient and fast cooking capabilities, you’ll have tender and flavorful turkey wings in no time.

To begin, I’ll press the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” button on the Instant Pot. Depending on the model, you might have different options, but these buttons generally do the same thing. I’ll then set the cooking time based on the weight and size of the turkey wings. As a general rule of thumb, I usually cook smoked turkey wings for 25 minutes per pound.

Once the cooking time is set, I’ll wait a few seconds for the Instant Pot to heat up and then the magical cooking process will begin. The Instant Pot will start building pressure, and you’ll notice the float valve on the lid rise. This means that the pot is sealed, and the cooking process has started.

While the Instant Pot is doing its magic, it’s important to remember to never open the lid during the cooking process. Opening the lid will release the pressure and disrupt the cooking time, resulting in unevenly cooked turkey wings.

Once the timer goes off and the cooking process is complete, I’ll allow the Instant Pot to do a natural pressure release for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the turkey wings to continue cooking in the residual heat and ensures optimum tenderness.

After the natural pressure release, I’ll carefully vent any remaining pressure by switching the valve from “Sealing” to “Venting”. Be cautious as steam will be released, so keep your hands and face away from the venting valve to avoid any burns.

And with that, the cooking process is complete! I’ll carefully remove the lid, and the aroma of smoked turkey will fill the air. The turkey wings should be fall-off-the-bone tender and bursting with flavor.

But we’re not done yet! Stay tuned for the final step – adding the finishing touches to our delicious smoked turkey wings.

Step 4: Natural Release and Resting Time

Once the cooking time is complete, it’s important to allow for a natural release and resting time before opening the lid of your Instant Pot. This step is crucial for achieving the desired tenderness and flavor of your smoked turkey wings.

When the cooking time is up, the Instant Pot will automatically switch to the “Keep Warm” function. Do not open the lid immediately – this can result in the loss of moisture and compromise the texture of your turkey wings. Instead, let the pressure naturally release for about 10 to 15 minutes. This gradual release of pressure allows the meat to continue cooking in its own juices, resulting in a moist and flavorful outcome.

As the pressure releases, you may hear some hissing or steam escaping from the Instant Pot. This is completely normal and indicates that the pressure is slowly decreasing. Avoid touching the steam release valve during this process, as it can cause burns.

After the natural release, it’s time to carefully vent any remaining pressure before opening the lid. To do this, make sure the steam release valve is set to the “Venting” position. Be cautious as hot steam will escape from the valve, so keep your hands and face clear of the venting steam.

Once all the pressure has been released, you can open the lid and behold your perfectly cooked smoked turkey wings. But before you dig in, remember to let the wings rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more delectable eating experience.

And that’s it! Your smoked turkey wings are now ready to be enjoyed. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these tender and succulent wings will surely impress your family and friends. Stay tuned for the final step, where we’ll add some finishing touches to elevate the flavor of your smoked turkey wings.

Step 5: Finishing Touches and Serving

Now that the smoked turkey wings are done cooking in the Instant Pot, it’s time to add those finishing touches to elevate the flavors and make them even more delicious. Take a deep breath and get ready to be blown away by the aromas and flavors that will fill your kitchen!

1. Natural Release and Resting Time: After the cooking time is complete, it’s important to allow for a natural release of pressure. This allows the turkey wings to continue cooking gently and ensures that they remain tender and moist. Resist the temptation to quickly vent the pressure manually – patience is key here. Let the Instant Pot do its magic and work its wonders!
2. Opening the Lid: Once the natural release is complete, it’s time to open the lid of the Instant Pot. But hold on! Before you do that, let the turkey wings rest for a few minutes in the pot. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and succulent bite. Trust me, this step is worth the wait!
3. Venting any Remaining Pressure: Once the resting time is over, carefully vent any remaining pressure from the Instant Pot. Be cautious while doing this, as the steam can be hot. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for releasing the pressure safely.
4. Letting the Wings Rest: Before you dive into the delectable goodness of your smoked turkey wings, let them rest for a few minutes on a serving platter. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures that the meat is at its juiciest. Plus, it’s the perfect time to prepare any accompanying side dishes or garnishes.

Now that your smoked turkey wings have been cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot and you’ve completed the finishing touches, it’s time to savor every single bite. Enjoy these mouthwatering wings as a main course, appetizer, or even as a party snack. Get your favorite dipping sauces ready or serve them with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

Remember, the beauty of cooking with the Instant Pot is that it saves you time and effort without compromising on flavor. So, take a moment to appreciate the convenience and deliciousness of this incredible cooking method.

Tips on How Long to Cook

Cooking smoked turkey wings in the Instant Pot is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy tender and flavorful meat. By following the step-by-step instructions provided in this article, I have highlighted the key factors to ensure a successful cooking process. The Instant Pot’s ability to lock in moisture and infuse flavors creates a mouthwatering result that is sure to impress. Remember to resist the temptation to open the lid during cooking, as this can disrupt the pressure and affect the final outcome. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release before venting any remaining pressure. This will help to maintain the tenderness and juiciness of the turkey wings. After a few minutes of resting, carefully open the lid and savor the delicious aroma. Whether you choose to serve these smoked turkey wings as a main course, appetizer, or party snack, the Instant Pot will deliver a dish that is both convenient and full of flavor. So, go ahead and enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of cooking with the Instant Pot.