Candied Bacon Turkey Poppers

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0:35 - Prep 0:05 / Cook 0:30
Beginner

There's just something special about smoking juicy wild game over the flame. Especially when it’s wrapped in sweet candied bacon, sprinkled with a blend of savory and spicy seasonings and cooked until it's satisfyingly crisp and juicy.

About the cut: 
Turkey breast is white meat that comes from the chest of the turkey. Mild, savory and slightly sweet, turkey breast tastes like a richer chicken breast and has a tender, succulent texture.

This recipe was created by our partner, @OutdoorsAllie

Allie made this recipe on our Rambler Tabletop Charcoal Grill, but you can make it on your own grill or smoker.

6-8 Servings

Ingredients

Turkey and marinade
  • 1 turkey breast, cubed
  • 1 1/2 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon sage, dried
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • pinch nutmeg
  • pinch coriander
Candied Bacon
  • 1/2 pound thick cut bacon
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed tightly
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Preparation

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Step 1 Of 12
1. In a large bowl, combine the maple syrup, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sage, salt, cayenne, nutmeg and coriander.
2. Cut turkey breast into 1 inch sized cubes and add to the maple syrup mixture. Coat thoroughly and marinate in the refrigerator for 2 hours.
3. After two hours, preheat the grill between 300°F and 325°F using charcoal briquettes.
4. Remove the turkey from the fridge and allow the meat to reach room temperature.
5. While the grill is heating, rinse the marinade off and pat the turkey dry before seasoning with a small amount of kosher salt.
6. In a small bowl, combine the cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper, black pepper, and brown sugar. Stir until well combined.
7. Cut the bacon in halves and coat with the seasoning mixture.
8. Wrap the bacon around the turkey cubes and secure each one with a toothpick.
9. When the grill is ready, place a cast iron skillet on the grill rack and heat for 5 to 10 minutes.
Hot TipKeeping the temperature under 350°F prevents the sugar from burning.
10. Place the turkey poppers in the cast iron pan and cook with the lid closed until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 30 to 40 minutes.
11. Flip the poppers over every 10 minutes. Watch the grill’s temperature carefully, ensuring that it doesn’t rise above 350°F.
12. Remove the poppers from heat. Let cool for a few minutes, then plate and serve.
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