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Turkey A-La-King

Turkey A-La-King

A comforting and classic dish, Turkey A-La-King features tender pieces of cooked turkey and sweet peas (and optional mushrooms) enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. Traditionally served over toast, it's a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for using up leftover turkey.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Entrée, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Classic Diner Style
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 Sticks of butter or margarine 1 cup or 226g
  • 2 Tsp Salt
  • 1 Tsp Pepper
  • 1 1/3 Cups All-purpose flour
  • 6 ½ Cups Milk whole or 2% recommended for creaminess
  • 4 Cups Chicken broth about two 14.5 oz cans
  • 8 Cups Chopped cooked turkey roughly 3-4 lbs of cooked turkey
  • 1 Lb Bag of frozen peas
  • 1 Can Sliced mushrooms, drained (optional) 8 oz
  • 2 Slices Bread toasted, per serving

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Roux: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt the two sticks of butter or margarine over medium heat. Once melted, add the 2 teaspoons of salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper. Stir well.
  2. Create the Thickener: Gradually whisk in the 1 1/3 cups of flour. Continue whisking constantly for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to cook slightly and form a smooth paste (this is called a roux). This step is important to prevent a raw flour taste.
  3. Whisk in Liquids: Slowly pour in the 6 ½ cups of milk and 4 cups of chicken broth all at once, while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk as the mixture heats up.
  4. Thicken the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently. The sauce will gradually thicken as it cooks. Continue to cook and stir for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and coats the back of a spoon. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little more milk or broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
  5. Add Turkey and Vegetables: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the 8 cups of chopped cooked turkey and the 16 oz bag of frozen peas. If using, add the drained 8 oz can of sliced mushrooms.
  6. Simmer and Serve: Gently heat the mixture for another 5-10 minutes, or until the turkey and peas are thoroughly heated through and the flavors have melded. Do not boil, as this can cause the sauce to separate.
  7. Prepare Toast: While the A-La-King is simmering, toast two slices of bread per serving.
  8. Assemble and Enjoy: Spoon a generous amount of the hot Turkey A-La-King over each piece of freshly toasted bread. Serve immediately.